Tiramisu is one of the most beloved Italian desserts, celebrated worldwide for its decadent flavor and luxurious texture. This no-bake dessert is a delightful combination of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone cheese filling, and a light dusting of cocoa powder. Each layer melts in your mouth, offering the perfect balance of sweet, creamy, and slightly bitter coffee notes.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this Tiramisu recipe because it balances the richness of mascarpone with the bold flavor of espresso and the subtle sweetness of sugar, creating a heavenly dessert that melts in your mouth. Its light yet indulgent texture is incredibly satisfying, and the layers make it visually stunning, perfect for impressing guests.
Why It’s a Must-Try Dish
Tiramisu is a must-try because it combines classic Italian flavors with a simple, no-bake preparation. It’s elegant, universally loved, and versatile enough to customize for different tastes. Every bite tells a story of coffee, cocoa, and creamy bliss.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Preparation Time: 25 minutes
- Chilling Time: 4–6 hours (or overnight for best results)
- Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
Servings and Calories
- Servings: 8
- Calories per Serving: Approximately 450 kcal
Course and Cuisine
- Course: Dessert
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 3 large eggs, separated
- 100 g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar
- 250 g (1 cup) mascarpone cheese
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 200 ml (3/4 cup) strong brewed espresso, cooled
- 2 tbsp coffee liqueur (optional)
- 200 g (about 16) ladyfinger biscuits (savoiardi)
- Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
- Dark chocolate shavings (optional, for garnish)
Cooking Directions
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
- Prepare the Mascarpone Cream:
- In a medium bowl, whisk egg yolks with sugar until pale and creamy.
- Add mascarpone and vanilla extract, gently folding until smooth and fully combined.
- Whip the Egg Whites:
- In a separate clean bowl, whisk egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- Carefully fold the whipped egg whites into the mascarpone mixture, ensuring the cream remains light and airy.
- Prepare the Coffee Mixture:
- Combine cooled espresso with coffee liqueur (if using) in a shallow dish.
- Assemble the Tiramisu:
- Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture, making sure not to soak them too long.
- Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers at the bottom of your serving dish.
- Spread half of the mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers.
- Repeat with another layer of soaked ladyfingers and the remaining mascarpone cream.
- Chill:
- Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.
- Finish and Serve:
- Dust the top generously with cocoa powder.
- Add chocolate shavings if desired.
How to Serve This Recipe
Tiramisu is best served chilled. Use a sharp knife to cut neat slices or a spoon for a rustic serving. Pair it with espresso, dessert wine, or a simple cup of hot cocoa for a complete dessert experience.
Recipe Tips
- Use fresh, high-quality mascarpone for the best creamy texture.
- Do not oversoak ladyfingers; they should absorb coffee but remain slightly firm.
- Chill overnight for deeper, richer flavor.
- Use pasteurized eggs if you’re concerned about raw eggs.
Variations
- Chocolate Tiramisu: Add layers of melted chocolate or chocolate ganache.
- Berry Tiramisu: Replace coffee with berry syrup and layer fresh berries.
- Alcohol-Free Tiramisu: Omit coffee liqueur for a kid-friendly version.
- Matcha Tiramisu: Swap cocoa powder for matcha powder and coffee for green tea.
Freezing and Storage Time
- Refrigerator: 4–5 days, covered
- Freezer: Up to 1 month (wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil; thaw in fridge before serving)
Special Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Electric whisk or hand mixer
- Shallow dish for dipping ladyfingers
- Serving dish or individual cups
- Sifter for cocoa powder
Conclusion
Tiramisu is more than just a dessert—it’s an experience. Its creamy layers, coffee-soaked ladyfingers, and dusting of cocoa create a heavenly combination that’s perfect for celebrations or a cozy night in. With simple ingredients and no-bake assembly, this recipe brings authentic Italian elegance to your table with minimal effort. Once you try it, Tiramisu becomes an unforgettable indulgence you’ll want to make again and again.
Tiramisu
Tiramisu is one of the most iconic Italian desserts, loved for its creamy texture, delicate coffee flavor, and a hint of cocoa.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Prepare the Mascarpone Cream: In a medium bowl, whisk egg yolks with sugar until pale and creamy. Add mascarpone and vanilla extract, gently folding until smooth and fully combined.
-
Whip the Egg Whites: In a separate clean bowl, whisk egg whites until stiff peaks form. Carefully fold the whipped egg whites into the mascarpone mixture, ensuring the cream remains light and airy.
-
Prepare the Coffee Mixture: Combine cooled espresso with coffee liqueur (if using) in a shallow dish.
-
Assemble the Tiramisu: Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture, making sure not to soak them too long. Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers at the bottom of your serving dish. Spread half of the mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers. Repeat with another layer of soaked ladyfingers and the remaining mascarpone cream.
-
Chill: Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.
-
Finish and Serve: Dust the top generously with cocoa powder. Add chocolate shavings if desired.
