Tiramisu Recipe – Authentic Italian Coffee Dessert
Tiramisu Recipe – Authentic Italian Coffee Dessert
Ingredients
- 300 g ladyfingers (savoiardi)
- 350 ml strong espresso, cooled
- 3 tbsp coffee liqueur or Marsala (optional)
- 4 large egg yolks
- 100 g granulated sugar
- 500 g mascarpone, cold
- 250 ml heavy cream, cold
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of fine salt
- 2–3 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)
Why You’ll Love It
- Authentic flavor with real espresso and mascarpone.
- No baking—perfect make-ahead dessert.
- Silky texture and balanced coffee-cocoa finish.
Food safety note: This classic version uses gently heated yolks. If serving pregnant persons, kids, or immunocompromised guests, use pasteurized eggs.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brew & cool: Stir espresso with liqueur; let cool completely.
- Whisk yolks & sugar: Over a low bain-marie, whisk yolks with sugar for 3–4 minutes until pale and slightly thick; remove from heat.
- Mascarpone cream: Whisk in mascarpone until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip cream, vanilla, and salt to soft peaks; fold into the yolk mixture.
- Dip & layer: Dip ladyfingers very briefly (1–2 seconds per side). Arrange a tight layer in a 23×23 cm (9×9 in) dish; spread half the cream. Repeat with remaining biscuits and cream.
- Chill & finish: Cover and refrigerate at least 6 hours (overnight best). Dust thickly with cocoa just before serving.
Pro Tips
- Don’t over-soak ladyfingers—they should be moist, not soggy.
- Cold mascarpone prevents a runny cream; avoid over-whipping.
- For extra depth, add a pinch of salt and a splash of dark rum.
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Refrigerate, covered, up to 3 days.
- Freezing: wrap tightly and freeze up to 1 month; thaw overnight in the fridge.
- Dust with cocoa only when serving to keep the top pristine.
Nutrition (per serving, approx.)
420 kcal • 6 g protein • 28 g fat • 36 g carbs
FAQ
Can I make tiramisu without alcohol?
Yes—simply skip the liqueur and use pure espresso or decaf coffee.
What if I can’t find mascarpone?
Cream cheese works in a pinch, but flavor and texture are best with mascarpone.
Can I use cocoa plus shaved chocolate?
Absolutely. Dust with cocoa and add fine shavings of dark chocolate for texture.
