Description
Traditional Italian Tiramisu is a rich, creamy no-bake dessert made with layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and a smooth mascarpone mixture, finished with a dusting of cocoa powder. This classic Italian treat is perfect for entertaining or indulging in a luxurious sweet bite any time of year.
Ingredients
Scale
- 6 large egg yolks: For creating a rich custard base
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and balances the flavors
- 16 oz mascarpone cheese: Provides the creamy texture and signature flavor
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream: Adds lightness and volume to the filling
- 2 cups brewed espresso, cooled: Gives the dessert its bold coffee flavor
- 2 tbsp coffee liqueur (optional): Enhances the espresso flavor with depth
- 1 package (7 oz) savoiardi (ladyfinger biscuits): Creates the layered structure
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder: For dusting and finishing touch
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds warmth and enhances the cream flavor
Instructions
- Brew the espresso and let it cool. Mix in coffee liqueur if using and pour into a shallow bowl.
- In a heatproof bowl, whisk egg yolks and sugar over a double boiler until pale and slightly thickened, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and cool slightly.
- Whisk in mascarpone cheese until smooth and combined.
- In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream and vanilla extract to stiff peaks. Gently fold into the mascarpone mixture until fully incorporated.
- Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the espresso mixture, one at a time, and line the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish with a layer of soaked biscuits.
- Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers and smooth the surface.
- Repeat with a second layer of dipped ladyfingers followed by the remaining mascarpone mixture. Smooth the top evenly.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.
- Just before serving, dust the top with cocoa powder using a fine sieve. Slice and serve chilled.
Notes
- Do not oversoak the ladyfingers or the dessert will become soggy.
- Use high-quality mascarpone and espresso for best flavor results.
- The dessert sets better and tastes richer if made a day ahead.
- You can substitute coffee liqueur with dark rum or omit it for a non-alcoholic version.
- Dust cocoa powder just before serving to prevent it from getting absorbed into the cream.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/10 of dish)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 190mg