Photography: James Moffatt / Styling: Steve Pearce
It’s International Coffee Day on October 1 so we’ve brought together some of our favourite coffee-inspired treats. Whether it’s the bold intensity of espresso or the subtle richness of cold brew, coffee’s complex flavour profile adds depth and sophistication to a wide variety of sweet creations. This collection celebrates that unique synergy, with desserts that highlight the versatility of coffee in everything from creamy espresso martini cheesecake to chewy cappuccino-infused cookies. Perfect for after-dinner indulgence, afternoon pick-me-ups, or elegant gatherings, these recipes are crafted to delight both coffee lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike. Each recipe is designed with flavour and texture in mind, balancing the bitter notes of coffee with sweetness.
You’ll find both classic and creative takes on coffee desserts — from traditional tiramisu to classic rice pudding with a modern twist. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a curious home cook, these treats are sure to elevate your dessert game. So, grab your favourite brew, preheat the oven, and get ready to explore the irresistible world of coffee desserts – where every bite is as energising as it is indulgent.
Coffee fudge cake with toasted coffee meringue
Fudgy goodness with meringue on top
This is a flavour sensation with coffee infused throughout the dessert, from the moist cake to the tops of the billowing meringue that’s caramelised on top.
Custard tart with mocha and white chocolate
White chocolate and mocha custard makes the perfect combination
This coffee custard tart with a white chocolate top is dusted in a generous sprinkling of cocoa – to get a professional-looking crisp line, use a piece of paper as a template.
Espresso martini cheesecake
A sophisticated, adults-only cheesecake
Combine dessert and after-dinner drinks in this delicious dish that incorporates coffee in every layer, including the crunchy base, creamy centre and the espresso martini drizzled on top.
Cappuccino cookies
Caffeine-infused biscuits to make
Lift your morning tea to another level with these chewy coffee cookies that have cream cheese icing on top forming a delicious flavour and texture pairing.
Condensed milk rice pudding with cold drip granita
Coffee and rice pudding – a combo made in heaven
For a super-quick dessert, prepare the granita a few days before and then it’s just a matter of pulling it out of the freezer to pour over the rice pudding when it’s ready. Delish!
Flourless coffee, date and hazelnut cake with coffee butterscotch
A gluten-free coffee dessert recipe
This cake is perfect for those who can’t eat gluten but don’t want to miss out on the baking goodness of coffee dessert.
Classic tiramisu
A tiramisu from the Italian island of Sardinia
Make everything from scratch with this recipe that creates a truly authentic tiramisu that’s a true crowd-pleaser.
Boiled chocolate and coffee cake
Coffee cake that’s made to share
Rich, moist, and deeply flavourful, this boiled chocolate and coffee cake blends cocoa and coffee for a decadent dessert with a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Easy tiramisu
A classic recipe for the Italian staple
Follow our easy tiramisu recipe and you’ll be indulging in the creamy delight in no time at all and sharing around with friends and relatives.
Chocolate espresso fudge puddings
For chocolate and coffee lovers
These gooey molten puddings are perfect to have at the end of dinner for a decadent, warming dessert. Plus, they’re as simple as can be.
Tiramisu cupcakes
Mini versions of an Italian classic
Indulge in the rich flavour of tiramisu – moist coffee-soaked cake with creamy mascarpone – with these individual cupcakes that are a fun twist on the original.
