Tiramisu is the quintessential Italian dessert, featuring layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, rich mascarpone cream, and a dusting of cocoa. If you’re looking for an easy tiramisu recipe that tastes like it’s straight from an Italian café, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s explore this no-bake dessert that’s sure to impress your guests or satisfy your sweet cravings.
Introduction
The word “tiramisu” means “pick me up” in Italian, and it’s easy to see why. This dessert combines the bold flavors of espresso with a creamy mascarpone mixture, creating a delightful balance of rich and smooth. Traditional tiramisu features ingredients like Savoiardi (ladyfingers), mascarpone, espresso, and sometimes coffee liqueur, making it an ideal make-ahead treat that gets better the longer it sits.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this indulgent tiramisu recipe:
- 1 cup espresso or strong coffee, cooled
- 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)
- 6 large egg yolks
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese, at room temperature
- 1 cup cold heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 24-30 Savoiardi (ladyfingers)
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting
- Dark chocolate shavings (optional, for decoration)
Directions
1. Prepare the Coffee Mixture
Brew 1 cup of espresso or strong coffee and let it cool. For an extra kick, stir in 2 tablespoons of coffee liqueur. Set aside.
2. Make the Mascarpone Cream
In a heatproof bowl, whisk together the 6 egg yolks and ¾ cup of sugar. Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method) and whisk continuously for 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens and becomes pale. Remove from heat and allow it to cool.
3. Incorporate Mascarpone
Once the egg mixture has cooled, gently fold in the mascarpone cheese until smooth and creamy.
4. Whip the Cream
In a separate bowl, whisk the cold heavy cream and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Carefully fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture, ensuring it stays light and airy.
5. Assemble the Tiramisu
Quickly dip each Savoiardi (ladyfinger) into the cooled coffee mixture, being careful not to soak them for too long, as they can become too soggy. Arrange the soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) dish.
6. Layer with Cream
Spread half of the mascarpone cream evenly over the ladyfingers. Add another layer of coffee-dipped ladyfingers, then top with the remaining mascarpone cream.
7. Chill
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight. The flavors will deepen as the tiramisu sits.
8. Dust and Serve
Before serving, generously dust the top with unsweetened cocoa powder and, if desired, add some dark chocolate shavings for an extra touch of indulgence.
Notes
- Eggs: Use fresh, high-quality eggs for the best flavor and safety.
- Coffee: Authentic tiramisu uses espresso, but strong brewed coffee can work in a pinch.
- Liquor: Coffee liqueur is optional, but it adds a rich depth of flavor. You can substitute it with rum or omit it entirely.
- Ladyfingers: Be careful not to over-soak the ladyfingers, as this can result in a mushy texture.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving Suggestions: Tiramisu is best served chilled. Dust with extra cocoa powder or add chocolate shavings just before serving.
- Storage: Leftover tiramisu can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even better over time.
- Freezing: Tiramisu can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. To serve, thaw in the fridge overnight.
Nutrition Details (per slice, based on 12 servings)
- Calories: 330
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 18g
- Vitamin A: 15% DV
- Calcium: 10% DV
- Iron: 8% DV
FAQs
Can I make tiramisu without raw eggs?
Yes! You can use pasteurized eggs or follow the cooked egg custard method in this recipe, which reduces risk while maintaining the authentic flavor.
Can I substitute mascarpone cheese?
While mascarpone is essential for traditional tiramisu, you can substitute it with a mixture of cream cheese and heavy cream. However, the texture and flavor may differ slightly.
Is tiramisu gluten-free?
Traditional Savoiardi biscuits contain gluten. To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free ladyfingers, which are available in some stores.
Can I make tiramisu without alcohol?
Absolutely! Simply omit the coffee liqueur or replace it with a non-alcoholic vanilla or almond extract for a similar flavor.
Conclusion
This authentic tiramisu recipe combines the creamy richness of mascarpone with the bold flavor of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, topped with a dusting of cocoa for a perfect finish. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s ideal for special occasions or anytime you want to indulge in something extraordinary. Make it ahead for your next gathering, and watch your guests come back for seconds!
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: N/A (no-bake)
- Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes (including chilling)
- Cuisine: Italian