Print

Classic Italian Tiramisu Recipe

4.6 from 130 reviews

This Classic Italian Tiramisu recipe features delicate ladyfinger biscuits soaked in rich coffee, layered with a creamy mascarpone mixture made of eggs and sugar, and finished with a dusting of cocoa powder. It is a quintessential Italian dessert known for its luscious texture and bold coffee flavor, perfect for impressing guests or indulging in a delightful treat at home.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Tiramisu:

  • 24 ladyfinger biscuits
  • 1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
  • 3 large eggs, separated
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 8 oz mascarpone cheese, room temperature
  • Cocoa powder, for dusting

Instructions

  1. Prepare Coffee Soak: Brew one cup of strong coffee and allow it to cool completely. This will be used to soak the ladyfinger biscuits to infuse them with coffee flavor without making them soggy.
  2. Whisk Egg Yolks and Sugar: In a large bowl, vigorously whisk the egg yolks and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes pale and thick, creating the base for a rich, creamy texture.
  3. Incorporate Mascarpone: Gently fold the mascarpone cheese into the egg yolk mixture until smooth and creamy, ensuring the combination is well blended but still light.
  4. Whip Egg Whites: In a separate clean bowl, beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. Carefully fold the whipped egg whites into the mascarpone mixture to add airiness and lightness to the cream.
  5. Assemble Layers: Quickly dip each ladyfinger biscuit into the cooled coffee, soaking just enough to moisten without becoming soggy. Arrange a layer of soaked biscuits at the bottom of your serving dish.
  6. Add Cream Layer: Spread half of the mascarpone cream over the layer of ladyfingers, smoothing it evenly with a spatula.
  7. Repeat Layers: Add another layer of coffee-soaked ladyfingers on top of the cream, then cover with the remaining mascarpone cream. Smooth the top evenly.
  8. Chill: Cover the tiramisu with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly.
  9. Finish with Cocoa Powder: Just before serving, generously sift cocoa powder over the top layer for a classic finish and added richness.

Notes

  • Use fresh eggs to minimize health risks as the recipe uses raw eggs.
  • For a non-alcoholic version, omit any liqueurs traditionally added to coffee soaking liquids.
  • The mascarpone cheese should be at room temperature to avoid lumps in the cream mixture.
  • Ladyfingers absorb coffee quickly, so do not soak them for too long to prevent sogginess.
  • The dessert improves in flavor after chilling overnight.

Keywords: Tiramisu, Italian dessert, coffee dessert, mascarpone, ladyfinger dessert, no bake dessert