Tiramisu, meaning “pick me up” in Italian, is a beloved dessert worldwide. This no-bake treat combines rich layers of mascarpone cheese, espresso-soaked ladyfingers, and a dusting of cocoa. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or indulging in a personal treat, this classic Italian Tiramisu recipe will captivate your taste buds with its creamy and coffee-infused flavors.
Ingredients
For the Tiramisu:
- 6 large egg yolks
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/4 cups mascarpone cheese (room temperature)
- 1 3/4 cups heavy cream (cold)
- 2 cups brewed espresso or strong coffee (cooled)
- 1/4 cup coffee liqueur (optional)
- 1 pack of ladyfingers (savoiardi)
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)
- Dark chocolate shavings (optional garnish)
Preparation
Prepare the Cream Mixture
- In a heatproof bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar.
- Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler setup) and whisk continuously until the mixture thickens slightly and turns pale. This takes about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool.
- Once cooled, gently fold in the mascarpone cheese until smooth.
Whip the Cream
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks using a mixer.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture, being careful not to deflate the cream.
Assemble the Tiramisu
- Combine the cooled espresso and coffee liqueur (if using) in a shallow dish.
- Dip each ladyfinger briefly into the espresso mixture. Avoid soaking them too long to prevent sogginess.
- Arrange a layer of dipped ladyfingers in the bottom of your serving dish.
- Spread half of the mascarpone mixture evenly over the ladyfingers.
- Repeat the process with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and the remaining mascarpone mixture.
Finishing Touches
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
- Before serving, dust the top generously with unsweetened cocoa powder and garnish with dark chocolate shavings, if desired.
Variations
- Alcohol-Free Version: Skip the coffee liqueur and use decaffeinated coffee for a kid-friendly version.
- Fruit Twist: Add a layer of fresh berries, like raspberries or strawberries, between the layers for a fruity variation.
- Chocolate Tiramisu: Mix a tablespoon of cocoa powder into the mascarpone mixture for a chocolate-flavored cream.
Cooking Note
- Ensure the espresso is fully cooled before dipping the ladyfingers. Warm coffee can make the ladyfingers too soft.
- Use high-quality mascarpone for a rich and authentic flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve Tiramisu chilled, straight from the refrigerator.
- Pair with a cup of espresso or a glass of dessert wine like Vin Santo.
- Top individual servings with extra chocolate shavings for added decadence.
Tips
- Use store-bought ladyfingers for convenience, but homemade ladyfingers can elevate the recipe.
- Adjust the sugar levels to suit your taste preferences.
- Tiramisu tastes better after resting overnight, as the flavors have more time to meld.
Prep Time
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Rest Time: 6+ hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 25 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)**
- Calories: 410
- Protein: 7g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Sodium: 45mg
FAQs
Can I make Tiramisu without eggs?
Yes, you can substitute the egg yolk mixture with sweetened condensed milk or a custard-free mascarpone filling for an egg-free version.
How long does Tiramisu last?
Tiramisu can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to a month, then thaw in the fridge before serving.
Can I make Tiramisu gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free ladyfingers or bake your own using gluten-free flour.
Conclusion
Classic Italian Tiramisu is the epitome of Italian desserts, offering a perfect balance of creamy mascarpone and bold espresso flavors. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a novice, this recipe guarantees impressive results with minimal effort. Gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and indulge in a timeless dessert that’s sure to impress!