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Grilled Chicken with Coffee Tiramisu

moka coffee pot
This vegan “grilled chicken” inspired coffee tiramisu blends smoky-sweet notes with creamy indulgence for a bold, wildly unexpected dessert centerpiece.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 6 servings
Calories 290 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the “Grilled Chicken” Tofu Layer:

  • 1 block extra-firm tofu pressed and sliced (14 oz)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp liquid smoke
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp garlic powder

For the Coffee Tiramisu Layers:

  • 1 ½ cups strong brewed coffee cooled
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1 cup vegan cream cheese
  • ¾ cup coconut whipped topping
  • ¼ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 10 vegan ladyfinger-style biscuits or soft cookies
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting

Instructions
 

  • Marinate tofu: In a bowl, combine olive oil, soy sauce, liquid smoke, paprika, and garlic. Coat sliced tofu. Let it sit 10 minutes.
  • Grill tofu: Use a grill pan or skillet on medium heat. Grill 4–5 minutes each side until crispy and golden. Let cool.
  • Mix coffee soak: Combine brewed coffee with maple syrup. Set aside to cool fully.
  • Whip cream filling: In a bowl, beat vegan cream cheese, coconut whip, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and fluffy.
  • Assemble: Dip ladyfingers quickly in coffee mix. Layer at the bottom of a dish. Add grilled tofu slices as your “wild card.”
  • Add cream layer: Spread half the cream mixture over the base. Repeat with remaining biscuits and cream.
  • Dust with cocoa: Sift cocoa powder on top like you’re passive-aggressively covering past mistakes.
  • Chill: Refrigerate at least 3 hours before serving, or overnight if you’re a patient goddess.

Notes

Nutritional Values (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 290
  • Total Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 7g

Vitamins and Minerals (Per Serving)

  • Iron: 10%
  • Calcium: 8%
  • Magnesium: 6%
  • Potassium: 5%
  • Folate: 7%

Additional Notes / Tips

  • Use soft vegan cookies if you can’t find ladyfingers—nobody’s judging.
  • Liquid smoke adds magic, not actual fire. Don't skip it.
  • Want drama? Add a hint of cinnamon to the cream.
  • This pairs dangerously well with cold brew or coffee liqueur.
  • Let people guess what’s “grilled”—then smirk knowingly like the queen you are.