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There’s nothing quite like the experience of a delicious dessert that transports you to a sun-soaked paradise. As I was reminiscing about my last getaway to a tropical beach, the thought of a rich, decadent Coconut Rum Tiramisu sprang to mind. Combining the luscious creaminess of classic Italian tiramisu with the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean, this dessert is a true delight for the senses. Imagine the delightful aroma of coffee mingling with the essence of coconut and the warmth of rum as you enjoy each bite.

What I love most about this cocotastic twist is how effortlessly it impresses. Whether you’re hosting friends for dinner or treating yourself after a long week, this dessert brings a festive spirit to any occasion. Best of all, it’s surprisingly simple to prepare! Let’s dive into this Coconut Rum Tiramisu and take your taste buds on a tropical adventure!

Why is Coconut Rum Tiramisu a Must-Try?

Exotic Twist: This dessert adds a Caribbean flair to a classic Italian favorite, ensuring every bite feels like a mini holiday.
Effortless Indulgence: You don’t need to be a professional chef to master this recipe—all you need are simple ingredients and a bit of time!
Crowd-Pleaser: With its creamy texture and rich flavors, this Coconut Rum Tiramisu guarantees to impress guests at any gathering.
Versatile Option: Want a kid-friendly version? Just swap the rum for vanilla extract!
Make Ahead: Perfect for planning ahead, as it tastes even better after a night in the fridge; just follow our storage tips.

Coconut Rum Tiramisu Ingredients

For the Cream Mixture
• Eggs – Provide richness and stability to the cream mixture.
• Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness; can be substituted with granulated sugar if needed.
• Mascarpone – Creates a creamy, indulgent base for the dessert.
• Coconut Cream – Enhances coconut flavor; can be substituted with whipped cream for a lighter taste.
• Heavy Cream – Contributes to the creamy texture; ensure it’s whipped to stiff peaks.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk – Adds sweetness and creaminess; no direct substitute due to unique texture.

For the Soaking Mixture
• Coconut Milk – Infuses flavor; one can use dairy-free milk as a substitute for a lighter version.
• Evaporated Milk – Aids in creaminess; could be replaced with more coconut milk if desired.
• Rum – Adds depth of flavor; substitute with vanilla extract if avoiding alcohol.
• Cinnamon – Offers a warm spice note; can be omitted or replaced with nutmeg.

For the Assembly
• Ladyfingers – Serve as the structural base of the dessert; ensure the right type for best absorption of liquids.
• Coconut Flakes – Provides texture and enhances coconut flavor; can replace with chocolate shavings if desired.

This Coconut Rum Tiramisu is a fantastic way to surprise your guests with a dessert that’s sure to transport everyone to the tropics!

How to Make Coconut Rum Tiramisu

Prepare Eggs: Separate the egg yolks from the whites. Whisk the yolks with powdered sugar until they turn pale and creamy, creating a luscious base for the dessert.
Mix Cream Ingredients: Add mascarpone, coconut cream, and half of the coconut milk to the yolk mixture. Mix until everything is well combined, forming a rich and smooth cream.
Whip Heavy Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with the remaining powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Gently fold this whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture for a light, airy texture.
Create Soaking Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the remaining coconut milk, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, rum, and cinnamon. This mixture will give the ladyfingers their wonderful flavor.
Prepare Ladyfingers: Cut the ladyfingers to fit your serving dish. Dip each briefly into the soaking mixture; be careful not to oversoak them to maintain their structure.
Layer the Tiramisu: In your dish, start with a layer of soaked ladyfingers, followed by half of the cream mixture. Sprinkle some coconut flakes on top, then repeat layers, ending with the remaining cream.
Garnish & Chill: Dust the top with a sprinkle of cinnamon. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 12 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly.

Optional: Top with extra coconut flakes for a tropical flair.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Coconut Rum Tiramisu Variations

Feel free to get creative with this delicious dessert to make it truly your own!

Alcohol-Free: Replace rum with vanilla extract for a delightful, kid-friendly version that retains all the flavor.
Dairy-Free: Substitute mascarpone and heavy cream with silken tofu and coconut cream for a lighter, dairy-free twist.
Flavor Boost: Infuse the cream mixture with a splash of almond extract for an extra layer of nutty flavor that complements the coconut beautifully.
Chocolate Lovers: Incorporate a layer of chocolate ganache between the ladyfingers and cream for an indulgent chocolate-coconut combination.
Fruity Surprise: Add fresh bananas or pineapple slices between the layers for a tropical fruit twist that brings a burst of freshness.
Spiced Delight: Mix a hint of nutmeg or allspice into the cream mixture for a warm, comforting flavor perfect for cozy gatherings.
Textural Contrast: Swap out coconut flakes for crushed graham crackers or toasted nuts to create a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy layers.
Sweet Variants: Try using flavored sweetened condensed milk, like coconut or caramel, to inject a new taste dynamic into your tiramisu.

Expert Tips for Coconut Rum Tiramisu

• Soak Smart: Dip ladyfingers quickly to avoid sogginess; they should be moist but not falling apart for perfect texture.
• Chill Time: Allow at least 12 hours in the fridge for the Coconut Rum Tiramisu to set beautifully and develop deep flavors.
• Layering Magic: Ensure even layering of cream and ladyfingers to achieve a charming presentation—don’t rush this delightful step!
• Use Quality Ingredients: Choose high-quality rum and mascarpone for the richest flavor; it genuinely elevates your dessert’s overall appeal.
• Garnish Wisely: A sprinkle of coconut flakes or a light dusting of cocoa powder makes for an eye-catching finish on your Coconut Rum Tiramisu.

What to Serve with Coconut Rum Tiramisu?

Indulge in an enchanting culinary journey as we complement the tropical delight of your dessert.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing medley of colorful tropical fruits balances the creamy richness of the tiramisu with its vibrant and juicy textures.
Cardamom-Spiced Coffee: The warm, aromatic notes of cardamom in your coffee will beautifully harmonize with the rum flavors in the tiramisu, creating a cozy pairing.
Chilled Coconut Milk: Serve this mild and creamy beverage alongside your tiramisu. Its subtle sweetness accents the dessert without overpowering it, inviting another delightful bite.
Cinnamon Sugar Cookies: These crunchy cookies provide a satisfying contrast to the soft layers of the tiramisu, while the cinnamon echoes the bakery-spice finish of your dessert.
Coconut Sorbet: A light, frosty dessert brings a refreshing twist and elevates the coconut flavor, leaving taste buds craving just one more tantalizing taste.
Sparkling Water with Lime: A zesty sparkling water cuts through the creaminess, refreshing your palate perfectly between bites of the rich Coconut Rum Tiramisu.

Pairing these delightful options will make your meal feel complete while allowing the flavors of your Coconut Rum Tiramisu to shine like the tropical sun!

Make Ahead Options

These Coconut Rum (Coquito) Tiramisu are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cream mixture and the soaking mixture up to 24 hours in advance; just keep them stored separately in the refrigerator to maintain their texture and flavor. Additionally, the ladyfingers can be prepped ahead—simply cut them out and store in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, assemble the layers, sprinkle with coconut flakes, and allow to chill in the fridge for at least 12 hours to let the flavors meld. This way, when it’s time for dessert, you’ll have a delicious, crowd-pleasing Coconut Rum Tiramisu with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Coconut Rum Tiramisu

Fridge: Store your Coconut Rum Tiramisu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to deepen, but the texture may slightly change.

Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the tiramisu. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, and enjoy within 2 months for best flavor and quality.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, transfer the frozen tiramisu to the fridge for 6-8 hours or overnight to thaw gently. Avoid using a microwave, as it can alter the texture.

Serving: If serving leftovers, consider adding a fresh sprinkle of coconut flakes on top to restore that delightful tropical touch!

Coconut Rum (Coquito) Tiramisu Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe eggs for the Coconut Rum Tiramisu?
Absolutely! When selecting eggs, look for ones that are clean, free from cracks, and have a consistent shell color. Fresh eggs have a slightly elevated yolk and firm whites, which add richness to the tiramisu. If possible, choose organic or free-range eggs for the best flavor and quality.

What are the best storage methods for leftover Coconut Rum Tiramisu?
You can store your Coconut Rum Tiramisu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps the flavors deepen, giving you an even more delicious dessert experience, though the texture may change slightly. Just remember to cover it well — no one wants a snooze-fest of stale smells in their dessert!

Can I freeze Coconut Rum Tiramisu, and how is it best done?
Yes, you can freeze your Coconut Rum Tiramisu! First, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and then cover it with aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be kept frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, defrost it in the refrigerator for about 6-8 hours or overnight. This gentle thawing process preserves the texture beautifully.

My ladyfingers turned soggy; what did I do wrong?
Very! The key is to dip the ladyfingers very quickly in the soaking mixture. A brief dip (just a second on each side!) will be enough to give them moisture without causing them to collapse. If they feel too soft, it’s likely they were oversoaked, so practice makes perfect!

Is Coconut Rum Tiramisu safe for those with dairy allergies?
While traditional Coconut Rum Tiramisu contains dairy, you can modify it for a dairy-free version! Use dairy-free alternatives like coconut yogurt instead of mascarpone, dairy-free whipped cream for the heavy cream, and ensure your ladyfingers are dairy-free, too. This way, everyone can enjoy a taste of the tropics!

Can I substitute the rum in the recipe?
Absolutely! If you’d prefer a non-alcoholic option, simply replace the rum with a splash of vanilla extract or a bit of coconut extract for that tropical flair. The coconut flavor remains strong, and your Coconut Rum Tiramisu will still be delicious without the kick!