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Classic Tiramisu Recipe

Tiramisu is a classic Italian dessert known for its layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, rich mascarpone cream, and a dusting of cocoa powder. This no-bake dessert is elegant, easy to prepare, and always a crowd-pleaser. With a perfect balance of sweetness and bitterness from the coffee and cocoa, Tiramisu is the ultimate indulgence.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 20 minutes
Cuisine Italian
Servings 8 People
Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Hand mixer or stand mixer
  • Whisk
  • Shallow dish
  • 9x9 inch dish for assembling Tiramisu
  • Sifter or fine-mesh strainer for cocoa powder

Ingredients
  

  • 6 large egg yolks
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 1/2 cups mascarpone cheese
  • 1 1/2 cups strong brewed coffee
  • 1/4 cup coffee liqueur
  • 24-30 ladyfinger cookies
  • 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
  • Dark chocolate shavings

Instructions
 

  • 1. Prepare the mascarpone mixture:In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and granulated sugar until pale and thick. You can use a hand mixer or whisk by hand for about 5 minutes. Once the mixture is light in color, set it aside.
    2. Whip the cream:In another bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. This will take about 3-4 minutes.
    3. Add mascarpone:Gently fold the mascarpone cheese into the whipped cream until smooth and well combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the mixture light and fluffy.
    4. Combine egg yolk mixture and mascarpone mixture:Gently fold the whipped cream mixture into the egg yolk mixture until fully combined. Set this mascarpone cream mixture aside.
    5. Prepare the coffee mixture:In a shallow dish, mix the cooled brewed coffee with coffee liqueur (if using). This will be used to dip the ladyfingers.
    6. Dip the ladyfingers:Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture for 1-2 seconds, making sure they are coated but not soggy. Arrange the dipped ladyfingers in a single layer at the bottom of your 9x9 inch dish.
    7. Layer the Tiramisu:Spread half of the mascarpone cream mixture over the first layer of ladyfingers. Then, dip the remaining ladyfingers in the coffee mixture and arrange them on top of the cream layer. Spread the remaining mascarpone cream over the second layer of ladyfingers.
    8. Chill the Tiramisu:Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together and the texture to set.
    9. Finish and serve:Before serving, sift a generous amount of unsweetened cocoa powder over the top of the Tiramisu. You can also garnish with dark chocolate shavings for an extra touch of decadence.

Notes

  • Alcohol-Free Option: If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the coffee liqueur and use plain brewed coffee.
  • Make-Ahead Dessert: Tiramisu is an excellent make-ahead dessert since it requires chilling for a few hours or overnight. This makes it perfect for parties or special occasions.
  • Soft vs. Crisp Ladyfingers: Use crisp ladyfingers (savoiardi) for the best texture. Soft ladyfingers may become too soggy after soaking in the coffee.
  • Storage: Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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