Description
This classic Italian Tiramisu recipe features layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers combined with a smooth and creamy mascarpone mixture. It delivers a rich, indulgent flavor and a melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s perfect for dessert lovers. Easy to prepare with common ingredients, it’s ideal for both special occasions and everyday treats, with flexible variations to suit any dietary need.
Ingredients
Scale
Espresso Mixture
- 1 cup espresso or strong coffee, cooled
- 2 tbsp coffee liqueur (optional)
Mascarpone Cream
- 4 large egg yolks, room temperature
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese, room temperature
- 1 cup heavy cream or whipping cream
Assembly
- 24 ladyfingers (savoiardi)
- Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare the Espresso: Brew 1 cup of strong espresso or coffee and allow it to cool to room temperature. If desired, stir in 2 tablespoons of coffee liqueur to add depth and complexity. This mixture will be used to soak the ladyfingers.
- Make the Mascarpone Cream: In a bowl, whisk 4 large egg yolks with 3/4 cup sugar until the mixture becomes pale and slightly thickened. Gently fold in 1 cup of mascarpone cheese until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip 1 cup of heavy cream until soft peaks form, then carefully fold it into the mascarpone mixture to create a light and creamy texture.
- Assemble the Layers: Briefly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture, making sure not to soak them too long to avoid sogginess. Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers in your serving dish. Spread a generous layer of the mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of mascarpone cream on top.
- Chill and Garnish: Cover the assembled tiramisu and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to let the flavors meld and the dessert set. Just before serving, dust the top evenly with unsweetened cocoa powder for the classic bittersweet finish.
Notes
- Use freshly brewed quality espresso for the best coffee flavor.
- Quickly dip ladyfingers to avoid soggy texture.
- Bring mascarpone and eggs to room temperature for a smooth cream.
- Whip the cream carefully to keep it light and airy without over-whipping.
- Chill the tiramisu sufficiently to allow flavors to develop and the texture to set.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/8 of recipe)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 28 g
- Sodium: 80 mg
- Fat: 32 g
- Saturated Fat: 19 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 220 mg
Keywords: Tiramisu, Italian dessert, mascarpone, espresso, no-bake dessert, creamy dessert, layered dessert