Best Classic Italian Tiramisu Recipe

Introduction

Tiramisu is a timeless Italian dessert known for its creamy texture and rich coffee flavor. This classic recipe combines mascarpone cheese, espresso-soaked ladyfingers, and cocoa powder for a perfectly balanced treat. 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 smooth.
2. Step 2: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold it into the mascarpone mixture.
3. Step 3: Dip each ladyfinger in the cooled coffee for a quick moment and arrange half in a layer at the bottom of a baking dish.
4. Step 4: Spread half of the cream mixture over the ladyfingers. Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and top with remaining cream.
5. Step 5: Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. Before serving, dust with cocoa powder.

Tips & Variations

• Use freshly brewed espresso for the best coffee flavor.
• For a boozy twist, add 2 tablespoons of coffee liqueur or Marsala wine to the coffee.
• Be gentle when folding the whipped cream to keep the mixture light and airy.
• Ensure the ladyfingers are dipped briefly to avoid sogginess.

Storage

Store tiramisu covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It tastes best after chilling overnight to allow flavors to meld. Reheat is not recommended as it is served cold.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use pasteurized eggs in this tiramisu?

Yes, using pasteurized eggs is a safe choice especially if you’re concerned about consuming raw eggs. They work well in this recipe without altering the texture.

How long can I prepare tiramisu in advance?

Tiramisu can be made up to one day ahead of serving. Refrigerate it properly to keep it fresh and let it chill at least 4 hours for the best texture and flavor.

Best Classic Italian Tiramisu Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 117 reviews

This classic Italian Tiramisu recipe is a rich and creamy dessert featuring layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and a smooth mascarpone cream. Perfectly balanced with a hint of vanilla and dusted with cocoa powder, it’s a timeless treat for any occasion.

• Author: Sophie
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes (whipping and mixing time)
• Total Time: 23 minutes plus chilling time
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Mascarpone Cream

• 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

Other Ingredients

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

Instructions

1. Prepare the 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 is smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
2. Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the chilled heavy cream until stiff peaks form. This means the cream should hold its shape firmly when the whisk is lifted.
3. Combine the Cream and Mascarpone: Gently fold the whipped heavy cream into the mascarpone mixture. Use a spatula to carefully incorporate the two without deflating the whipped cream, achieving a light and airy texture.
4. Soak the Ladyfingers: Quickly dip each ladyfinger in the cooled strong black coffee. The dip should be brief to avoid sogginess but enough to soak them lightly.
5. Assemble the First Layer: Arrange half of the coffee-soaked ladyfingers in a single layer at the bottom of a baking dish, covering the base completely.
6. Add Cream Layer: Spread half of the mascarpone and whipped cream mixture evenly over the layer of ladyfingers, smoothing the surface.
7. Repeat the Layers: Dip the remaining ladyfingers in coffee briefly and layer them over the cream. Then top with the remaining mascarpone cream mixture, spreading it evenly.
8. Chill: Cover the dish tightly and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly.
9. Serve: Before serving, dust the top generously with cocoa powder for a rich chocolate finish.

Notes

• Use cold mascarpone and chilled heavy cream for best texture and stability.
• Do not soak ladyfingers too long in coffee to prevent sogginess.
• Egg yolks are raw in this recipe; consider using pasteurized eggs for safety.
• For a stronger coffee flavor, use espresso instead of regular strong black coffee.
• Letting the tiramisu chill overnight enhances the flavor and texture.

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