Description
Classic Italian Tiramisu is a rich, creamy, and indulgent no-bake dessert made with layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and a luscious mascarpone cream filling, finished with a dusting of cocoa powder. This recipe delivers that iconic coffee-flavored treat that is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Mascarpone Cream
- 16 oz cold mascarpone cheese
- 4 egg yolks (or 4 egg whites)
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream (or whipped egg whites)
Other
- ~30 ladyfingers
- 1 1/2 cups strong black coffee, cooled to room temperature
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder (for dusting)
Instructions
- Prepare Coffee: Brew strong black coffee and allow it to cool to room temperature to prevent sogginess when soaking the ladyfingers.
- Make Mascarpone Mixture: In a large bowl, blend the cold mascarpone cheese with sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream (or egg whites) to stiff peaks, then gently fold into the mascarpone mixture to create a light and creamy filling.
- Soak Ladyfingers and Layer: Briefly dip each ladyfinger into the cooled coffee—quick dips prevent sogginess—and arrange half the dipped ladyfingers evenly in a baking dish.
- First Layer of Cream: Spread half of the mascarpone mixture evenly over the first layer of ladyfingers.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat dipping and layering the remaining ladyfingers, then spread the rest of the mascarpone cream on top.
- Chill: Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least four hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to set.
- Serve: Dust the top generously with cocoa powder just before serving for the perfect finishing touch.
Notes
- For a traditional recipe, egg yolks are used; however, whipped egg whites can be substituted for a lighter texture.
- If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, do not add any liqueurs, although some recipes include Marsala wine or coffee liqueur.
- The dipping time for ladyfingers should be very quick to avoid them becoming soggy.
- Ensure mascarpone is cold to achieve a better consistency when mixing.
- Chilling the tiramisu overnight improves the flavor and texture significantly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: Tiramisu, Italian dessert, mascarpone, coffee dessert, no bake dessert, classic tiramisu, ladyfingers, cocoa powder
