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Classic Italian Tiramisu Recipe

4.7 from 733 reviews

Classic Italian Tiramisu is a rich, creamy dessert featuring layers of coffee-soaked ladyfinger biscuits and luscious mascarpone cheese filling, dusted with cocoa powder. This no-bake treat is perfect for an elegant finish to any meal or a special occasion indulgence.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Ladyfinger Layer

  • 200 grams ladyfinger biscuits
  • 1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled

For the Mascarpone Cream

  • 250 grams mascarpone cheese
  • 3 large eggs, separated
  • 100 grams granulated sugar

For Garnish

  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Coffee: Brew strong coffee and allow it to cool to room temperature. This will be used to soak the ladyfinger biscuits, infusing them with a rich coffee flavor.
  2. Separate and Whip Egg Yolks: Separate the egg yolks from the whites. In a mixing bowl, whisk the egg yolks with sugar until the mixture becomes thick, pale, and creamy. This forms the base of the mascarpone cream.
  3. Add Mascarpone Cheese: Gently fold the mascarpone cheese into the whipped egg yolk and sugar mixture until smooth and well combined, creating a velvety cream filling.
  4. Whip Egg Whites: In a separate clean bowl, whip the egg whites until stiff peaks form. This will lighten the cream mixture and add fluffiness to the tiramisu.
  5. Combine Mixtures: Carefully fold the whipped egg whites into the mascarpone mixture, preserving as much air as possible to maintain a light texture.
  6. Soak Ladyfingers: Quickly dip each ladyfinger biscuit into the cooled coffee, making sure not to soak them for too long to prevent sogginess.
  7. Assemble Layers: Arrange a layer of the coffee-soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of a serving dish. Spread half of the mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers evenly. Repeat the layers once more with remaining ladyfingers and mascarpone cream.
  8. Chill: Cover the assembled tiramisu and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, allowing flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly.
  9. Dust with Cocoa Powder: Before serving, dust the top generously with unsweetened cocoa powder using a fine sieve to enhance the classic look and add a subtle chocolate bitterness.

Notes

  • For food safety, use pasteurized eggs or egg substitute if concerned about consuming raw eggs.
  • Espresso can be used instead of regular coffee for a stronger flavor.
  • Make ahead and refrigerate overnight for best flavor development.
  • Include a splash of coffee liqueur in the dipping coffee to add an adult twist.
  • Adjust sugar amounts to taste depending on sweetness preference.
  • Use a glass dish to showcase the beautiful layers of tiramisu.

Keywords: Tiramisu, Italian Dessert, Mascarpone, Coffee Dessert, No Bake Dessert, Classic Tiramisu