Description
Classic Tiramisu is a luxurious Italian dessert known for its layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, velvety mascarpone cream, and a dusting of cocoa powder. It’s a no-bake dessert that’s easy to prepare, yet indulgent and sophisticated enough to impress your guests. The perfect balance of coffee, cream, and cocoa makes it a beloved treat worldwide.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Coffee Mixture:
- 1 1/2 cups strong brewed coffee, cooled
- 1/4 cup coffee liqueur (optional)
For the Mascarpone Mixture:
- 16 oz mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Assembly:
- 1 package (7 oz) ladyfingers (savoiardi)
- Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
- Dark chocolate shavings or cocoa nibs (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Coffee Mixture:
- In a shallow dish, combine the brewed coffee and coffee liqueur (if using). Stir well and set aside to cool.
- Make the Mascarpone Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg yolks and sugar together until thick and pale, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the mascarpone cheese and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until smooth and combined.
- Whip the Heavy Cream:
- In a separate bowl, beat the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully combined.
- Assemble the Tiramisu:
- Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture (do not soak them too long), and layer them in the bottom of a 9×9-inch dish or similar-sized baking pan.
- Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers, smoothing it out with a spatula.
- Add another layer of dipped ladyfingers on top, then spread the remaining mascarpone mixture over the second layer.
- Chill the Tiramisu:
- Cover the tiramisu with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.
- Serve:
- Just before serving, dust the top with a generous layer of unsweetened cocoa powder and garnish with dark chocolate shavings or cocoa nibs, if desired.
Notes
- For a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the coffee liqueur.
- If you prefer a stronger coffee flavor, use espresso instead of brewed coffee.
- This dessert can be prepared a day ahead, which allows the flavors to meld together and results in an even creamier texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: Italian