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Classic Tiramisu Dessert

A no-bake Italian dessert featuring layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and a rich mascarpone cream. Its delicate balance of bitter coffee and sweet, creamy filling makes it a timeless favorite.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Chilling Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 30 minutes
Course Desserts
Cuisine Italian
Servings 10 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Mixing Bowls For preparing mascarpone cream and soaking ladyfingers.
  • 1 Hand mixer For whipping egg whites, cream, and blending mascarpone.
  • 1 Double boiler For gently cooking egg yolks with sugar (optional but recommended).
  • 1 Spatula For folding ingredients gently and smoothing layers.
  • 1 Fine sieve For dusting cocoa powder evenly on top.
  • 1 Rectangular glass dish Ideal for assembling tiramisu; 9×13 inches works well.

Ingredients
  

Mascarpone Cream Ingredients

  • 500 g Mascarpone cheese Cold, high-quality mascarpone for best texture.
  • 4 large Egg yolks Pasteurized eggs are safer for raw consumption.
  • 100 g Granulated sugar For sweetness in the cream.
  • 200 ml Heavy cream Whipped to soft peaks for lightness.
  • 1 tsp Vanilla extract Enhances flavor in the mascarpone mixture.
  • Optional - Pinch of salt Balances sweetness.

Ladyfingers and Coffee Ingredients

  • 24 pieces Ladyfingers (savoiardi) Store-bought or homemade; crisp texture is essential.
  • 1½ cups Strong brewed espresso Cooled completely before use.
  • 2 tbsp Coffee liqueur (optional) Adds depth; can be omitted for alcohol-free versions.
  • 1-2 tbsp Granulated sugar Sweetens the coffee slightly.

Topping Ingredients

  • 2–3 tbsp Unsweetened cocoa powder Dust lightly over the top before serving.

Instructions
 

Step-by-Step Recipe

    Prepare the Mascarpone Cream:

    • In a mixing bowl, beat cold mascarpone cheese until smooth using a hand mixer.
    • In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks and sugar over a double boiler until light and fluffy (about 5 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
    • Gradually fold the cooled egg yolk mixture into the mascarpone until fully combined. Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
    • In another bowl, whip heavy cream to medium peaks. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until light and airy. Set aside.

    Soak the Ladyfingers:

    • Combine cooled espresso, coffee liqueur (if using), and sugar in a shallow dish.
    • Dip each ladyfinger briefly (1–2 seconds per side) into the coffee mixture. Arrange them in a single layer at the bottom of the glass dish.

    Assemble the Tiramisu:

    • Spread half of the mascarpone cream evenly over the soaked ladyfingers.
    • Add another layer of coffee-soaked ladyfingers on top of the cream.
    • Spread the remaining mascarpone cream over the second layer of ladyfingers, smoothing the surface with a spatula.

    Chill and Finish:

    • Cover the assembled tiramisu with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming.
    • Refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, to allow flavors to meld and layers to set.
    • Before serving, dust the top evenly with unsweetened cocoa powder using a fine sieve.

    Serve:

    • Slice the tiramisu into even portions and serve chilled.

    Notes

      • Storage: Store tiramisu in the refrigerator, covered tightly, for up to 4 days. Best enjoyed within the first 48 hours.
      • Freezing: Freeze tiramisu for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then thaw in the fridge for 24 hours before serving. Dust with cocoa powder after thawing.
      • Alcohol-Free Option: Omit coffee liqueur and use decaf coffee for kid-friendly versions.
     
     

    Frequently Asked Questions

    1. How do you make traditional Italian tiramisu?
      • Mix mascarpone with whipped egg yolks and sugar, fold in beaten egg whites, and layer with coffee-soaked ladyfingers. Chill for several hours.
       
    2. What are the essential ingredients for classic tiramisu?
      • Mascarpone cheese, eggs, sugar, strong espresso, ladyfingers, cocoa powder, and optional liqueurs like Marsala or Amaretto.
       
    3. Can you explain the layering process?
      • Briefly dip ladyfingers in cooled coffee, arrange in a dish, spread mascarpone cream, repeat layers, and chill.
     
    1. What are the steps for an easy tiramisu recipe?
      • Prepare coffee, mix mascarpone cream, soak ladyfingers, layer, and chill for 4+ hours.
       
    2. Which recipe is closest to authentic Italian tiramisu?
      • Recipes using fresh mascarpone, strong espresso, and careful folding of whipped egg whites closely match traditional methods.
       
    3. What tips improve flavor and texture?
      • Use freshly brewed espresso, keep ingredients at room temperature, and fold gently to maintain lightness.
     
     

    Tips & Tricks

    • Flavor Enhancement: Add a splash of rum or brandy to the coffee mixture for extra depth.
    • Presentation: Serve individual portions in clear glasses for a modern twist.
    • Leftovers: Re-dust tiramisu with cocoa powder before serving leftovers for a fresh appearance.
     
     

    Plating and Garnishing

    • Garnish: Dust generously with unsweetened cocoa powder just before serving.
    • Serving Style: Arrange slices neatly on a plate or platter. Pair with espresso or dessert wine for an elegant touch.
    • Sides: Serve alongside fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.
    Keyword Coffee Cake, No-Bake Dessert, Tiramisu