​​Give Tiramisu A Satisfying Protein Boost With One Simple Swap

Tiramisu is a delicious Italian treat that combines some very tasty flavors: Decadent cocoa powder, bold coffee, and indulgent creamy mascarpone. Contrary to popular belief, it's actually quite easy to make. There are no fancy cooking methods, no oven time, and you can personalize it however you'd like: pumpkin tiramisu, tiramisu pudding, the options are plentiful. And it can even be transformed into a higher-protein dessert with just one simple ingredient: Greek yogurt.

Yes, you read that correctly. All you need to do is replace the heavy cream with some plain thick Greek yogurt and you'll have a protein-rich treat in no time. Plus, not only is Greek yogurt high in protein, with an average of about 20 grams of protein in a 200 gram (7 ounce) serving, but it's also rich in gut-friendly probiotics. It's a good source of vitamin B12 too, as well as selenium, calcium, phosphorus, and zinc. This easy swap creates a nutrient-rich dessert. Sign us up.

How to swap in Greek yogurt in your tiramisu

All you need for this protein-rich tiramisu recipe is ladyfingers, coffee, cocoa powder, mascarpone cheese and plain, full-fat Greek yogurt. You can swap in cacao powder for some added antioxidants, or even make your own paleo ladyfingers with coconut flour. You can also skip the mascarpone altogether or use low-fat yogurt to lower your calorie intake. A tablespoon of marsala, dark rum, or Kahlúa mixed into the cooled coffee adds a delicious, boozy flavor.

To make the swap, whisk together an eight ounce package of mascarpone cheese, if using, with about two cups of Greek yogurt. A few spoons of honey and some vanilla extract will help sweeten the yogurt. Once the mixture is smooth, set it aside and start arranging the ladyfinger layer. Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee and lay flat on the bottom of a serving dish that's at least two inches tall. Don't soak the ladyfingers for too long, or they will fall apart.

Once the dish base is covered, spoon the mascarpone and yogurt mixture over the top and smooth with a spatula. Transfer to the refrigerator to set for at least six hours, dusting the top with cocoa powder before serving, and that's it. This protein-rich tiramisu will last for up to seven days in the fridge and taste even better the next day – if you can wait that long.

More traditional recipes don't include heavy cream, only mascarpone, and also use whisked separated egg yolks and whites. If you're following one of those recipes, swap out half the mascarpone for Greek yoghurt. Our classic tiramisu recipe uses eggs, cream, and mascarpone, so just switch cream for yogurt.

Recommended