Name: Tiramisu: A Classic Italian Delight
Prep time: PT-487218H38M8S
Total time: 4 h 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 large egg yolks; ½ cup granulated sugar; ½ cup mascarpone cheese, softened; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 ½ cups strong espresso or coffee, cooled; 1 tablespoon rum or coffee liqueur (optional); 1 package ladyfingers (savoiardi biscuits); Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting; Dark chocolate shavings (optional)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tiramisu offers an irresistible combination of textures and flavors—crisp yet soft ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone filling, and the richness of espresso, all topped with a light dusting of cocoa powder. It’s incredibly easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making it an ideal dessert for hosting or a casual sweet indulgence. The flavors intensify as the dessert sits, and the layers come together perfectly. Plus, with no baking required, it’s a simple dessert that’s always a hit.

Ingredients

For the cream filling:

3 large egg yolks
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup mascarpone cheese, softened
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the assembly:

1 1/2 cups strong espresso or coffee, cooled
1 tablespoon rum or coffee liqueur (optional)
1 package ladyfingers (savoiardi biscuits)
Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
Dark chocolate shavings (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the mascarpone cream:

In a large bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar together until the mixture becomes pale and slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
In a separate bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese until smooth and creamy.
In another bowl, whip the heavy cream with vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
Gently fold the mascarpone cheese into the egg mixture until combined. Then, fold in the whipped cream, being careful not to deflate the cream.
Once the cream is well mixed, set it aside.

Assemble the tiramisu:

In a shallow dish, combine the cooled espresso or coffee with the rum or coffee liqueur (if using).
Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture. Do not soak them; just dip briefly so they are moistened but not soggy.
Arrange a layer of the dipped ladyfingers in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish or a trifle dish.
Spread half of the mascarpone cream mixture over the ladyfingers, smoothing it out with a spatula.
Repeat the process with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and the remaining mascarpone cream mixture.
Cover and refrigerate the tiramisu for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together.

Garnish and serve:

Just before serving, dust the top of the tiramisu with unsweetened cocoa powder using a fine mesh sieve.
Optionally, garnish with dark chocolate shavings for an extra touch of elegance.
Serve chilled and enjoy the creamy, coffee-infused delight!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8-10
Preparation time: 20-30 minutes
Chilling time: 4 hours (preferably overnight)
Total time: 4 hours 30 minutes (or overnight)

Variations

Chocolate Tiramisu: Add a layer of chocolate ganache between the layers of mascarpone cream or drizzle melted chocolate on top for an extra indulgent chocolate twist.
Fruit-flavored Tiramisu: Layer the mascarpone filling with fresh berries, such as raspberries or strawberries, for a refreshing variation of the classic dessert.
Vegan Tiramisu: Substitute the mascarpone cheese with vegan cream cheese and use a plant-based whipped cream substitute. Ensure the ladyfingers are vegan-friendly or use a dairy-free cookie alternative.
Coffee liqueur version: Add more coffee liqueur, such as Kahlúa, for a more intense coffee flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Tiramisu can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
Reheating: Tiramisu is best served chilled and should not be reheated. It’s a dessert that’s meant to be enjoyed straight from the fridge.

FAQs

Can I use a different alcohol in Tiramisu?

Yes, you can substitute the rum or coffee liqueur with other liquors such as amaretto, Marsala wine, or even brandy. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, just skip the alcohol and add more coffee or espresso.

Can I make Tiramisu without raw eggs?

Yes, if you’re concerned about using raw eggs, you can make an eggless version of the cream. Simply use store-bought whipped topping or substitute the egg yolks with additional mascarpone cheese or vanilla pudding mix.

Can I make Tiramisu without mascarpone cheese?

If you can’t find mascarpone cheese, you can substitute it with a blend of cream cheese and heavy cream. However, the texture and flavor may differ slightly.

Can I make Tiramisu ahead of time?

Absolutely! Tiramisu is best when made ahead of time. Let it chill for at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better. This allows the flavors to fully develop and the dessert to set properly.

How do I know when Tiramisu is ready?

Tiramisu should be firm and set but still creamy when you cut into it. The layers should hold their shape, and the flavors should meld together beautifully.

Can I freeze Tiramisu?

Yes, you can freeze Tiramisu! To do so, assemble the dessert, but don’t garnish it with cocoa powder or chocolate until you’re ready to serve. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 1-2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.

Conclusion

Tiramisu is a beloved Italian dessert that’s rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced with coffee, cocoa, and the subtle sweetness of mascarpone. Whether you’re enjoying it for a special occasion, a family dinner, or as a sweet indulgence after a meal, this dessert will always be a favorite. With layers of tender ladyfingers soaked in coffee and topped with a decadent mascarpone cream, Tiramisu is the perfect combination of textures and flavors that will leave everyone craving more. Simple to make, incredibly delicious, and guaranteed to impress—Tiramisu is a dessert that never goes out of style!