Description
Tiramisu is a classic no-bake Italian dessert made with espresso-soaked ladyfingers layered with creamy mascarpone filling and finished with a dusting of cocoa powder. It’s rich, elegant, and perfect for make-ahead entertaining.
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225g) mascarpone cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3 egg yolks (optional, for traditional version)
- 24 ladyfinger cookies (Savoiardi)
- 1 1/2 cups strong brewed espresso or coffee, cooled
- 2–3 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional, such as Kahlúa or Marsala wine)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
Instructions
- The espresso or strong coffee and allow it to cool. Stir in the coffee liqueur, if using.
- In a mixing bowl, beat egg yolks (if using) with granulated sugar until pale and thick.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream to soft peaks.
- In another bowl, beat mascarpone until smooth. Gently fold in the whipped cream, vanilla extract, and salt. If using the egg yolk mixture, fold it in as well.
- Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the cooled coffee mixture, just for 1–2 seconds to avoid sogginess.
- Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of a serving dish.
- Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers and smooth the surface.
- Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers, followed by the remaining mascarpone mixture.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Just before serving, dust generously with unsweetened cocoa powder.
Notes
Make a kid-friendly version by omitting the liqueur and using decaf coffee.Add chocolate shavings between layers for extra indulgence.Use sponge cake or pound cake if ladyfingers are unavailable.Individual portions in jars or cups make for elegant serving.Tiramisu tastes better after chilling overnight, allowing flavors to meld.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 110mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
