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.
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.

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 behind biscotti? Read: What is Biscotti?