Introduction
No-Bake Nutella Tiramisu Squares are a rich, creamy, and indulgent dessert made with layers of Nutella-filled biscuits and a luscious mascarpone cream. This egg-free recipe requires no baking, making it an easy yet elegant treat that’s perfect for holidays, parties, or whenever you’re craving a decadent chocolate-hazelnut dessert.
Origin and Cultural Significance
This dessert is inspired by the classic Italian tiramisu, traditionally made with coffee-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cream. This modern variation replaces ladyfingers with buttery tea biscuits and incorporates Nutella, creating a creamy, chocolate-hazelnut twist that has become popular in home kitchens worldwide for its simplicity and irresistible flavor.
Ingredients
For the Biscuit Base
- 120 g Petit Beurre or tea biscuits (about 18 biscuits)
- 8 tbsp Nutella, for spreading
- 50 ml warm milk, for dipping
For the Mascarpone Filling
- 250 g cold mascarpone cheese
- 250 ml cold heavy whipping cream (35% fat)
- 1 tbsp powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp Nutella
For the Topping
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
Optional Additions
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp hazelnut liqueur
- Warm espresso instead of milk
- Chocolate shavings
- Chopped toasted hazelnuts
- Mini chocolate chips
- Fresh strawberries
- Ferrero Rocher pieces for garnish
Tips for Success
- Use cold mascarpone and heavy cream for the best whipped texture.
- Dip the biscuits quickly to prevent them from becoming soggy.
- Whip the filling only until firm peaks form.
- Chill the dessert for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best texture.
- Dust with cocoa powder just before serving.
- Wipe the knife clean between slices for neat squares.
Instructions
- Line an 18–20 cm (7–8 inch) square pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
- Spread about 1 teaspoon of Nutella onto one biscuit and top with another biscuit to create a sandwich.
- Repeat until you have 9 biscuit sandwiches.
- Pour the warm milk into a shallow bowl.
- Quickly dip each biscuit sandwich into the milk, coating both sides without soaking.
- Arrange the biscuit sandwiches tightly in a single layer inside the prepared pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cold mascarpone cheese with the powdered sugar until smooth.
- Add the Nutella and mix until fully incorporated.
- Pour in the cold heavy whipping cream and beat until thick, smooth, and firm peaks form.
- Spread the mascarpone cream evenly over the biscuit layer using a spatula.
- Smooth the surface.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until fully set.
- Before serving, dust the top generously with unsweetened cocoa powder.
- Lift the dessert from the pan using the parchment paper.
- Cut into 9 equal squares and serve chilled.
Description
These creamy dessert squares combine soft Nutella-filled biscuits with a fluffy mascarpone cream that melts in your mouth. Finished with a generous dusting of cocoa powder, every bite delivers the perfect balance of chocolate, hazelnut, and silky cream.
Nutritional Information
Per Serving (Approximate, based on 9 squares)
- Calories: 430 kcal
- Protein: 6 g
- Total Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 16 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugars: 21 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
- Sodium: 110 mg
- Calcium: 80 mg
- Iron: 2 mg
Conclusion
No-Bake Nutella Tiramisu Squares are a quick, elegant dessert that delivers all the creamy indulgence of classic tiramisu with the irresistible addition of Nutella. With no baking required and minimal preparation, they’re guaranteed to impress every chocolate lover.
Recommendation
Serve chilled with freshly brewed coffee, espresso, cappuccino, or hot chocolate. Garnish with chocolate curls, toasted hazelnuts, or fresh berries for an elegant presentation. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For a firmer texture, freeze for 20–30 minutes before slicing.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Enjoy these rich tiramisu squares as a special treat while savoring their creamy texture and deep chocolate-hazelnut flavor. For a lighter version, use light mascarpone, reduced-fat cream, or decrease the Nutella slightly without sacrificing the dessert’s signature indulgence.