Tiramisu is a classic Italian dessert that is loved by people of all ages. However, the traditional recipe contains coffee, which can be limiting and too strong for kids. This kid-friendly tiramisu variation is coffee-free and can be made in a large pan or individual cups, making it the perfect dessert for kids’ parties or your average weeknight.
I wanted to create a kid-friendly version of tiramisu that is delicious and satisfying. We are talking wholesome whipped cream, chocolate brownies baked with spinach and comforting, soft brown butter apples to pack a nutritious vitamin K and high-fiber punch.
The best part about this recipe is it’s simple and can be stored easily. This recipe also makes a great spread for a ‘build your own tiramisu bar’ or set it up for your kiddo to build their own dessert and have fun interacting with their own food!
This kid-friendly tiramisu recipe is a delicious and fun way to enjoy a classic Italian dessert with the whole family, without the coffee.
Superfood Kiddo Tiramisu
Equipment
- 1 Kid Sized Bowl or Dessert Glass of your choice
- 1 Food Processor
- 1 Standing mixer
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 box brownie mix and all required ingredients to prepare it
- 1/4 cup applesauce or yogurt
- 1/4 cup cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup frozen spinach
- 2/3 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 large or 2 small apples diced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup apple or orange juice
- Chocolate chips or sprinkles as a topping optional
Instructions
Instructions for the Batter:
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees, grease and line your preferred baking sheet.
- Blend spinach and yogurt or applesauce in the food processor.
- Prepare brownie batter according to the box instructions.
- Mix both the spinach mixture and the brownie batter together in the mixing bowl.
- Bake for 35-45 mins or until the edges are slightly browned and a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean.
- Set aside on a cooling rack.
Instructions for the Apples:
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter, cinnamon and juice on low to medium heat until melted. Add the apples and saute medium heat until soft (3-5 minutes). It may not seem like enough liquid at first, but the apples will release their natural juices as they cook, helping to create the sauce.
- Turn off the heat, strain and set aside to cool. If you plan to make either of the other coffee-free tiramisu recipes, reserve the strained juice from this mixture.
Instructions for the Whipping Cream:
- In the standing mixer, whip the sugar and the heavy cream until stiff peaks form (about 3-5 minutes).
- Add the cinnamon.
Instructions for Assembly:
- Cut the cooled brownies into cubes.
- Grab your little one’s favorite dessert cup and layer all 3 mixtures above alternating a 1/4 cup of each (brownies, apples and whipped cream).
- Top with whipped cream and your kiddo’s favorite topping and enjoy! It’s that simple!
Notes
- For a fun twist, use different colored sprinkles to match the occasion or your child's favorite color.
- If you don't have a food processor, you can finely chop the spinach by hand.
- To make the apples extra soft, you can cook them in the microwave for a few minutes before adding them to the saucepan.
- Be careful not to overwhip the heavy cream, or it will become grainy.
- If you plan on making this tiramisu ahead of time, assemble it in the cups and then cover tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours.