Best Classic Italian Tiramisu Recipe

Introduction

Tiramisu is a beloved classic Italian dessert known for its creamy texture and rich coffee flavor. This recipe combines mascarpone cheese, whipped cream, and espresso-soaked ladyfingers to create a luscious treat perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make and sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients

• 16 oz mascarpone cheese (450g), cold
• 4 egg yolks
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar (133g)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream (360g), chilled
• 30-36 ladyfingers
• 1 1/2 cups strong black coffee, room temperature (360g)
• 2 tbsp cocoa powder for dusting

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine mascarpone cheese, egg yolks, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
2. Step 2: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully incorporated.
3. Step 3: Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the room-temperature coffee—just a brief moment to avoid sogginess—and arrange half of them in a single layer at the bottom of your baking dish.
4. Step 4: Spread half of the mascarpone cream mixture evenly over the ladyfingers. Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and top with the remaining cream mixture.
5. Step 5: Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld. Before serving, dust the top with cocoa powder for a classic finish.

Tips & Variations

• Use espresso or very strong coffee for a richer flavor.
• If raw eggs are a concern, use pasteurized egg yolks or substitute with whipped mascarpone and heavy cream only.
• For a boozy variation, add a tablespoon of coffee liqueur or rum to the coffee before dipping the ladyfingers.
• Chill your bowls and beaters before whipping the cream to help it reach stiff peaks faster.

Storage

Store the tiramisu covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It tastes best when served chilled but can be brought to room temperature slightly before serving. Do not freeze, as this can affect the texture of the creamy layers.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make tiramisu ahead of time?

Yes, tiramisu actually benefits from resting. Prepare it at least 4 hours in advance, or overnight, to let the flavors develop fully.

Is it safe to use raw egg yolks in tiramisu?

Traditional tiramisu uses raw egg yolks, but for safety, you can use pasteurized eggs or skip the eggs and increase the mascarpone and whipped cream for a safe alternative.

Best Classic Italian Tiramisu Recipe

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4.5 from 70 reviews

This classic Italian Tiramisu recipe features layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and a rich, creamy mascarpone mixture, topped with a dusting of cocoa powder. It’s a no-bake dessert that’s easy to prepare and perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a decadent treat at home.

• Author: Cleo
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (including chilling time)
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Mascarpone Mixture

• 16 oz mascarpone cheese (450g), cold
• 4 egg yolks
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar (133g)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream (360g), chilled

Assembly

• 30–36 ladyfingers
• 1 1/2 cups strong black coffee, room temperature (360g)
• 2 tbsp cocoa powder for dusting

Instructions

1. Prepare Mascarpone Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cold mascarpone cheese, egg yolks, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat the mixture until it becomes smooth and creamy, ensuring all ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Whip Heavy Cream: In a separate clean bowl, whip the chilled heavy cream until stiff peaks form. This will add lightness to the rich mascarpone mixture. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture to maintain its airy texture.
3. Dip Ladyfingers: Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the room temperature strong black coffee, ensuring they are soaked but not soggy. Immediately arrange half of the dipped ladyfingers in a single layer at the bottom of a baking dish to create the first coffee-soaked layer.
4. Layer Cream Mixture: Spread half of the mascarpone and whipped cream mixture evenly over the layer of ladyfingers. Then, repeat the process by dipping the remaining ladyfingers and layering them on top. Finish by spreading the remaining cream mixture as the top layer.
5. Chill and Serve: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly. Before serving, dust the top generously with cocoa powder to enhance the classic tiramisu flavor and presentation.

Notes

• Ensure the coffee is cooled to room temperature before dipping ladyfingers to prevent them from becoming too soggy.
• Use fresh eggs to reduce any risk as this recipe uses raw egg yolks.
• For a boozy version, add 2 tbsp of coffee liqueur such as Kahlúa to the coffee before dipping ladyfingers.
• Chilling overnight yields better flavor development and texture.
• Dust cocoa powder just before serving to keep it visually appealing.

Keywords: Tiramisu, Italian dessert, mascarpone, coffee dessert, no bake dessert, classic tiramisu