Why make this recipe

Tiramisu is one of the most beloved desserts in Italian cuisine. Its creamy layers, rich flavors, and delightful coffee aroma make it a perfect treat for any occasion. Making a classic Italian tiramisu is simple, allowing you to impress family and friends without much fuss. With just a few quality ingredients, this dessert can be a showstopper at your next gathering or a rewarding indulgence after dinner.

How to make BEST Classic Italian Tiramisu

Ingredients:

• 16 oz Mascarpone cheese (450g), cold from the fridge – I recommend Galbani
• 4 egg yolks
• 2/3 cup granulated or caster sugar (133g)* – if using egg whites, divide into 2 portions of 1/3 cup and 1/3 cup
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 cup heavy cream, chilled (360g) OR 4 egg whites
• 30-36 ladyfingers*
• 1 1/2 cup strong black coffee, room temperature (360g)*
• 2 tbsp cocoa powder to dust

Directions:

Mascarpone Cream Option 1: Using heavy cream (recommended)

1. In a mixing bowl, beat the cold heavy cream until soft peaks form.
2. In another bowl, whisk the egg yolks, sugar, vanilla, and salt until thick and pale.
3. Gently fold the mascarpone cheese into the egg yolk mixture until smooth.
4. Carefully fold in the whipped cream until combined.

Mascarpone Cream Option 2: Using egg whites

1. Beat the egg whites in a clean bowl until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks, sugar, vanilla, and salt until pale and thick.
3. Fold the mascarpone cheese into the egg yolk mixture until smooth.
4. Carefully fold in the beaten egg whites until well combined.

Assembly and serving:

1. Dip each ladyfinger briefly into the coffee, ensuring they soak but do not fall apart.
2. Layer soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of a dish.
3. Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers.
4. Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and the rest of the mascarpone mixture.
5. Dust the top with cocoa powder using a fine sieve.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.

How to serve BEST Classic Italian Tiramisu

Serve your tiramisu chilled. Cut it into squares and place on plates. You can decorate with extra cocoa powder or chocolate shavings for added flair. It pairs beautifully with a cup of espresso or a glass of dessert wine.

How to store BEST Classic Italian Tiramisu

Store any leftover tiramisu in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3-4 days. The flavors will deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious.

Tips to make BEST Classic Italian Tiramisu

• Use high-quality mascarpone cheese for the best flavor and creaminess.
• Don’t soak the ladyfingers too long; a quick dip is enough to prevent sogginess.
• For stronger coffee flavor, use espresso instead of regular coffee.
• Feel free to add a splash of coffee liqueur to the coffee mixture for an extra kick.

Variation

For a chocolate tiramisu, you can mix cocoa powder into the mascarpone layer or use chocolate-flavored ladyfingers. You may also add layers of chocolate ganache between the mascarpone layers.

FAQs

1. Can I make tiramisu ahead of time?
Yes, tiramisu is best when made a day before serving. It needs time to set and allows flavors to meld.

2. Is it safe to use raw eggs in tiramisu?
Raw egg consumption carries risk. If you’re concerned, you can use pasteurized eggs or opt for the heavy cream method.

3. Can I freeze tiramisu?
Freezing is not recommended, as it may affect the texture. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge for a few days.

Tiramisu

A classic Italian dessert made with layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and a rich mascarpone cream, perfect for any occasion.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 4 hours hrs

Course Dessert, Sweet

Cuisine Italian

Servings 8 servings

Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients

  

Mascarpone Cream Option 1

• 16 oz Mascarpone cheese, cold from the fridge (recommended Galbani)
• 4 pieces egg yolks
• 2/3 cup granulated or caster sugar (divided into 2 portions if using egg whites)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 cup heavy cream, chilled

Mascarpone Cream Option 2

• 4 pieces egg whites

Layering Ingredients

• 30-36 pieces ladyfingers
• 1 1/2 cup strong black coffee, room temperature
• 2 tbsp cocoa powder for dusting

Instructions

 

Mascarpone Cream Preparation – Option 1

• In a mixing bowl, beat the cold heavy cream until soft peaks form.
• In another bowl, whisk the egg yolks, sugar, vanilla, and salt until thick and pale.
• Gently fold the mascarpone cheese into the egg yolk mixture until smooth.
• Carefully fold in the whipped cream until combined.

Mascarpone Cream Preparation – Option 2

• Beat the egg whites in a clean bowl until stiff peaks form.
• In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks, sugar, vanilla, and salt until pale and thick.
• Fold the mascarpone cheese into the egg yolk mixture until smooth.
• Carefully fold in the beaten egg whites until well combined.

Assembly and Serving

• Dip each ladyfinger briefly into the coffee, ensuring they soak but do not fall apart.
• Layer soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of a dish.
• Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers.
• Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and the rest of the mascarpone mixture.
• Dust the top with cocoa powder using a fine sieve.
• Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.

Notes

Serve chilled. Decorate with extra cocoa powder or chocolate shavings. Pairs beautifully with espresso or dessert wine. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days; flavors improve over time.

Keyword Classic dessert, Coffee Dessert, Creamy Dessert, Italian Dessert, Tiramisu

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