This East-meets-West dessert reimagines the timeless tiramisu with aromatic cardamom, floral rosewater, and a subtle twist of saffron. Layered in transparent bowls, each spoonful reveals delicate textures — airy cream infused with spices, coffee-soaked ladyfingers, and cocoa dusting. Instead of mascarpone-heavy cream, this version uses Greek yogurt and whipped coconut cream for a lighter, gut-friendly finish.
Ideal for special occasions, Ramadan evenings, or wellness-centric gatherings, this tiramisu offers both indulgence and mindful nourishment. It’s also caffeine-optional and alcohol-free, making it a versatile crowd-pleaser.
🧁 INGREDIENTS:
Cream Layer:
- ½ cup Greek yogurt (thick and unsweetened)
- ½ cup whipped coconut cream (chilled overnight)
- 3 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- 1 tsp rosewater
- ½ tsp ground cardamom
- 1 pinch saffron threads (soaked in 1 tbsp warm milk)
Coffee Syrup:
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee or chicory brew (cooled)
- 1 tsp date syrup or jaggery (for depth)
- Optional: 1 tsp vanilla extract
Layers:
- 12–16 ladyfingers or homemade sponge slices
- 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)
- 1 tbsp crushed pistachios or rose petals (for garnish)
👩🍳 INSTRUCTIONS:
Step 1: Make the Spiced Cream
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, whipped coconut cream, maple syrup, rosewater, cardamom, and saffron milk.
- Mix until smooth and lightly aerated. Chill for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Step 2: Prepare the Coffee Dip
- Combine brewed coffee with date syrup and vanilla extract in a shallow bowl.
- Taste and adjust sweetness. Chill until ready to assemble.
Step 3: Assemble the Layers
- Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee syrup — no more than 2 seconds per side to avoid sogginess.
- Place a layer of dipped ladyfingers at the base of each glass bowl (break in halves if needed).
- Spoon a generous dollop of spiced cream over the layer.
- Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and cream.
Step 4: Chill & Finish
- Cover bowls and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Before serving, sift cocoa powder on top and garnish with crushed pistachios or edible rose petals.
🌿 HEALTHY SUBSTITUTES:
- Use almond sponge cake instead of ladyfingers for a gluten-free version.
- Coconut sugar or date paste can replace syrups for a lower glycemic index.
- Greek yogurt enhances probiotics and protein content.
🧬 WELLNESS TWIST:
This tiramisu supports skin vitality and gut health:
- Cardamom & rosewater soothe digestion and provide anti-inflammatory properties.
- Greek yogurt boosts gut-friendly bacteria.
- Saffron promotes mood and cellular regeneration.
🧁 Serving Notes:
- Best served chilled with a cup of spiced herbal chai or rose-fennel tea.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- For gatherings, layer in mini glasses or ramekins to make elegant single-serve portions.