½cupraw cashewssoaked in hot water for 30 minutes, then drained
½cupmaple syrup
2tspvanilla extract
1tbsplemon juicefreshly squeezed
¼tspsalt
1cupstrong brewed coffee or espressocooled to room temperature
2tbspcoffee liqueur or rumoptional
1(7 oz) packagevegan ladyfingers or vanilla biscuits
2tbspunsweetened cocoa powderfor dusting
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Tofu Cream. To a high-speed blender, add the drained silken tofu, soaked and drained cashews, maple syrup, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and salt. Blend on high for 1-2 minutes, scraping down the sides as needed, until the mixture is perfectly smooth and creamy with no grit. Set aside.
Step 2: Assemble the Layers. Pour the cooled coffee and optional liqueur into a shallow dish. Working one at a time, quickly dip each side of a vegan ladyfinger into the coffee mixture—just a second per side is enough to absorb flavor without it becoming soggy. Arrange the dipped ladyfingers in a single layer at the bottom of an 8x8 inch dish. Spread half of the tofu cream mixture evenly over the top.
Step 3: Finish and Chill. Repeat the process with a second layer of coffee-dipped ladyfingers, followed by the remaining tofu cream, smoothing the top with a spatula. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight. This chilling time is crucial for the dessert to set and for the flavors to meld together. Just before serving, use a fine-mesh sieve to dust the top generously with unsweetened cocoa powder.
Notes
Chef's Notes: Using silken or soft tofu is essential for a creamy, authentic texture; do not use firm or extra-firm tofu. The total time includes a minimum of 4 hours of chilling, which is non-negotiable for the tiramisu to set properly! Storage: Store leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.