Biscotti Tiramisu: A Twist on the Classic Italian Dessert

Not too long ago, we hosted a few friends for Thanksgiving dinner. I was going to serve Anise Biscotti with coffee, but at the last minute I decided to try something new and made
biscotti tiramisu. I already had mascarpone in the fridge, so I threw it together and refrigerated it for a couple of hours while I finished dinner. I was not sure if it would work. It was a hit. The hint of anise seed with the cacao on top was a festive bite I will never forget. Now I recommend it all the time.
If you are new to biscotti and want a deeper overview, start with our
Biscotti Guide for history, types, and how to choose the best biscotti for your coffee.
Why Biscotti Is Perfect for Tiramisu
- Twice-baked crunch so it soaks espresso without falling apart.
- Built-in flavor from Almond, Anise, Double Chocolate, or Cranberry Pistachio.
- Texture holds a firm bite, similar to ladyfingers.
Pro tip: dip each biscotti for about one second. Do not overdo it or they will get soggy.
Watching your portions or macros? Check our
Biscotti Nutrition Facts & Calories guide
for calories and serving sizes by flavor.

Make it tonight with our small-batch biscotti:
Shop Almond,
Shop Anise,
Shop Double Chocolate,
Shop Cranberry Pistachio.
Ingredients
- 2 cups freshly brewed espresso, cooled
- 2 tbsp sugar for espresso (optional)
- 16–18 biscotti — Anise is my top choice
- 16 oz mascarpone
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 egg yolks
- 1/2 cup sugar
- Unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting
- Dark chocolate shavings (optional)
Steps
- Make the espresso soak. Sweeten if you like. Let cool.
- Whip the cream. Soft peaks. Set aside.
- Make the mascarpone cream. Whisk yolks and 1/2 cup sugar until pale. Fold in mascarpone. Fold in whipped cream until smooth.
- Dip the biscotti. One quick second in espresso. No longer.
- Layer. Biscotti, cream, repeat. Finish with cream on top.
- Dust and chill. Cocoa on top. Cover. Chill at least 4 hours.
-
Serve. Slice clean squares or spoon into bowls. Add chocolate shavings or biscotti crumbs.
How to Serve
- Chill overnight for the cleanest slices.
- Dust with cocoa just before serving.
- Pair with espresso, cappuccino, or Vin Santo.
- Add a scoop of vanilla or pistachio gelato for a restaurant-style finish.
I served my first Anise Biscotti Tiramisu family-style at Thanksgiving. Everyone scooped their portion. The crumb on top made it unforgettable.
Want to learn more about the tradition and meaning behind biscotti? Read our
Biscotti Guide
for history, types, and how to choose the best biscotti.

