Few desserts can rival the elegance and indulgence of Tiramisu. This iconic Italian treat, with its layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone filling, and a dusting of cocoa powder, is a symphony of flavors and textures. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself, this easy-to-make tiramisu recipe will impress everyone.
Why Tiramisu is a Timeless Favorite
- Perfectly Balanced Flavors: Sweet, creamy mascarpone blends beautifully with the bold bitterness of espresso.
- No-Bake Dessert: Simple and fuss-free, it's ideal for those who want to avoid the oven.
- Impressive Yet Easy: Looks fancy but is surprisingly easy to assemble.
Ingredients
For 6-8 servings, you’ll need:
For the Layers:
- 1½ cups strong brewed espresso or coffee, cooled
- 3 tbsp coffee liqueur (optional, like Kahlúa or Amaretto)
- 24-28 ladyfinger biscuits (savoiardi)
For the Mascarpone Cream:
- 4 large egg yolks
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese, softened (about 8 oz)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For Topping:
- Unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting
- Grated dark chocolate or chocolate curls (optional)
Directions
1. Prepare the Coffee Mixture
- Brew strong espresso or coffee and let it cool completely.
- Mix in the coffee liqueur (if using) for an extra depth of flavor.
2. Whip the Mascarpone Cream
- In a heatproof bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar together until pale and creamy.
- Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method). Whisk constantly for about 5 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and let it cool.
- Fold in the softened mascarpone cheese until smooth and creamy.
- In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy cream and vanilla extract to stiff peaks.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully combined.
3. Assemble the Tiramisu
- Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture, ensuring they’re soaked but not soggy.
- Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of your dish (8x8-inch works well).
- Spread half of the mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers, smoothing it evenly with a spatula.
- Add another layer of soaked ladyfingers on top of the cream.
- Spread the remaining mascarpone cream over the second layer of ladyfingers.
4. Chill and Finish
- Cover the tiramisu with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight for the best flavor).
- Just before serving, dust the top generously with cocoa powder. Add grated dark chocolate or chocolate curls for extra flair.
Tips for the Perfect Tiramisu
- Use Fresh Ingredients: High-quality mascarpone, fresh coffee, and good cocoa powder make a difference.
- Don’t Over-Soak the Ladyfingers: A quick dip is enough to avoid a soggy texture.
- Chill Well: Allowing the tiramisu to rest in the fridge helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Make It Alcohol-Free: Skip the coffee liqueur for a family-friendly version.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This homemade tiramisu strikes the perfect balance of creamy, light, and luxurious. Each bite melts in your mouth, leaving behind the richness of mascarpone and the aromatic kick of coffee. It’s a dessert that feels indulgent but is easy to prepare ahead of time—ideal for entertaining or just a cozy night in.
