Tiramisu is a well-loved dessert from Italy. It includes layers of Italian ladyfingers soaked in strong espresso coffee, a rich and creamy mascarpone cheese mix, and a dusting of cocoa powder on top. This delightful dessert is known for its rich and smooth texture, alongside a deep coffee flavor that many people around the world enjoy.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Enjoy This Tiramisu Recipe
- Prepare in Advance: You can make Tiramisu ahead of time, and it actually tastes better if left overnight in the fridge. The flavors blend together more deeply, offering a richer taste the next day.
- Authentic Taste: It offers genuine Italian flavors with a creamy, soft, and buttery texture that melts in your mouth.
- No Baking Needed: This dessert doesn’t require baking, which makes it simple and quick to prepare at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Coffee Mixture:
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Brewed espresso or strong coffee (cooled) | 1 cup |
| Coffee liqueur (optional) | 2 tablespoons |
For the Mascarpone Cream:
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Mascarpone cheese (softened) | 8 ounces |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Granulated sugar | 1/3 cup |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
For Assembly:
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Ladyfingers (halved) | 12 |
| Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting) | As needed |
| Dark chocolate shavings (optional) | As needed |
How to Make Classic Tiramisu
Step 1: Prepare the Coffee Mixture
- Make a pot of strong espresso or regular coffee. After brewing, leave it until it cools to room temperature.
- For an added depth of flavor, consider mixing in some coffee liqueur, if you choose to use it.
Step 2: Make the Mascarpone Cream
- Blend the mascarpone cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- In a different bowl, beat the heavy cream until it becomes thick and forms stiff peaks.
- Slowly and carefully mix the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture, making sure they are thoroughly combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Tiramisu
- Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture, making sure to do so for only 1 to 2 seconds on each side to prevent them from getting too soggy.
- Arrange these coffee-soaked ladyfingers neatly at the bottom of your serving dish, creating a solid base.
- Take the mascarpone mixture and spread half of it evenly over the layer of ladyfingers, letting it blend in with the flavors below.
- Then, add another layer of ladyfingers that have also been dipped in coffee. Once they are in place, cover them with the remaining mascarpone cream, spreading it carefully to achieve a smooth and even surface.
Step 4: Finish & Chill
- Sprinkle some cocoa powder on the top.
- Then, cover it and place it in the fridge for at least 4 hours. If possible, keep it in there overnight for best results.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
- If you like, you can add some shavings of dark chocolate on top as a decoration.
- Cut the dessert into slices and make sure it’s cold before serving.
Recipes You’ll Love
For more indulgent tiramisu recipes, check out:
Expert Tips for the Perfect Tiramisu
- Use Fresh Ingredients: High-quality mascarpone and freshly brewed coffee enhance the flavor.
- Don’t Over-Soak Ladyfingers: A quick dip is enough to absorb flavor without becoming soggy.
- Chill for Best Results: Letting the tiramisu rest overnight intensifies the flavors.
- Try Different Variations: Swap coffee for hot chocolate for a caffeine-free version or add chocolate shavings for a richer taste.
FAQs
How long does tiramisu last in the fridge?
Tiramisu stays fresh for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Can I make tiramisu without coffee?
Yes! You can substitute coffee with hot chocolate or a sweetened milk mixture for a caffeine-free version.
What can I use instead of mascarpone cheese?
You can use cream cheese mixed with heavy cream, but mascarpone provides the authentic creamy texture.
Can I freeze tiramisu?
Yes, you can freeze tiramisu for up to a month. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving.
Is there an alcohol-free version of tiramisu?
Absolutely! Simply omit the coffee liqueur and use a coffee-flavored syrup instead.
Why is my tiramisu too watery?
This happens if ladyfingers are over-soaked or the cream mixture is under-whipped.
Tiramisu Recipe
This classic tiramisu is a rich and creamy Italian dessert made with espresso-soaked ladyfingers, smooth mascarpone cream, and a dusting of cocoa powder.
Ingredients
- 1 cup brewed espresso cooled
- 2 tbsp coffee liqueur optional
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese softened
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 12 ladyfingers halved
- Unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting
- Dark chocolate shavings optional
Instructions
- Brew and cool the espresso, then mix with coffee liqueur if using.
- Whip mascarpone, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Separately, whip heavy cream to stiff peaks and fold into the mascarpone mixture.
- Quickly dip ladyfingers in the coffee mixture and layer in a dish.
- Spread half of the mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers, then repeat the layers.
- Dust with cocoa powder, cover, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.