This low carb tiramisu-style dessert gives you all the creamy, coffee-infused goodness of classic tiramisu—without ladyfingers, sugar, or flour. Instead, it uses a crispy walnut base that adds richness, crunch, and depth, paired with a smooth coffee cream cheese filling.
It’s simple, indulgent, and perfect when you want a dessert that feels fancy but fits a low-carb or keto lifestyle.
Why This Recipe Works
- Walnut base replaces ladyfingers with fewer carbs and more healthy fats
- Cream cheese + whipping cream gives classic tiramisu creaminess
- Instant coffee delivers bold flavor without soaking biscuits
- No baking skills required beyond one simple base
- Easy to assemble and even better after chilling
Servings & Timing
- Servings: 6–8 slices
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Bake Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 1–2 hours (recommended)
- Total Time: ~45 minutes active + chilling
Ingredients
Walnut Base (Low-Carb “Ladyfinger” Substitute)
- 200 g walnuts, finely ground
- 2 eggs
- 4 tbsp coconut oil or butter, melted
- 1 tbsp low-carb sweetener (monk fruit / erythritol)
Creamy Coffee Layer
- 200 g whipping cream
- 250 g cream cheese, softened
- 1–2 tbsp instant coffee (adjust to taste)
- Sweetener, to taste
(Optional: ½ tsp vanilla extract or cocoa powder for topping)
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or hand mixer
- Baking tray
- Parchment paper
- Spatula
- Dish for assembling (square or rectangular works best)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Walnut Base
Preheat your oven to 320°F (160°C).
Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
In a bowl, mix:
- Ground walnuts
- Eggs
- Melted coconut oil or butter
- Sweetener
Stir until fully combined. The mixture should be thick but spreadable.
Step 2: Bake the Base
Spread the walnut mixture evenly onto the prepared tray, keeping it about ½ inch thick.
Bake for 15 minutes, or until:
- Lightly golden
- Firm to the touch
- Slightly crisp around the edges
Remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely.
(This step is important—warm base will melt the cream.)
Step 3: Make the Coffee Cream
In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
Add:
- Whipping cream
- Instant coffee
- Sweetener (to taste)
Beat until thick, creamy, and fluffy.
Taste and adjust sweetness or coffee strength as needed.
Step 4: Assemble the Tiramisu
Once the walnut base has cooled:
- Place it into your serving dish (cut to fit if needed)
- Spread the coffee cream evenly over the base
- Smooth the top with a spatula
Optional: Dust lightly with unsweetened cocoa powder or sprinkle crushed walnuts on top.
Step 5: Chill
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour (2 hours is even better).
Chilling helps the layers set and enhances the tiramisu-like texture.
Tips for Best Results
- Grind walnuts finely for a more cake-like base
- Let the base cool fully before assembling
- Start with 1 tbsp coffee, then increase if you like stronger flavor
- For cleaner slices, chill longer before cutting
Variations Readers Love
- Extra chocolate: Add cocoa powder between layers
- Vanilla twist: Add vanilla extract to the cream
- Layered style: Break walnut base into pieces and layer like trifle
- Stronger coffee: Dissolve instant coffee in 1 tsp hot water first
Storage Instructions
- Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
- Best served chilled
- Not freezer-friendly due to cream texture
