Classic Tiramisu
This classic Italian tiramisu is a rich, creamy, no-bake dessert made with layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and a light mascarpone filling, finished with a generous dusting of cocoa powder.
Ingredients
- 6 large egg yolks
- ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (225 g) mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1¼ cups (300 ml) heavy whipping cream, cold
- 2 cups (480 ml) strong brewed espresso or coffee, cooled
- 2 tbsp coffee liqueur (optional)
- 24 ladyfinger cookies (Savoiardi)
- Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
- Dark chocolate shavings (optional)
Instructions
- In a heatproof bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar. Place the bowl over a saucepan of gently simmering water and whisk for 5–7 minutes, until thick and pale. Remove from the heat and let cool slightly.
- Beat the mascarpone into the cooled egg mixture until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully combined.
- Stir the coffee liqueur into the cooled espresso, if using.
- Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture for 1–2 seconds—don’t soak them.
- Arrange a layer of dipped ladyfingers in the bottom of an 8-inch square baking dish.
- Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers.
- Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and the remaining mascarpone mixture.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.
- Just before serving, dust generously with cocoa powder and garnish with chocolate shavings if desired.
Tips
- Use cold mascarpone and cold heavy cream for the best texture.
- Dip the ladyfingers briefly to prevent a soggy dessert.
- Overnight chilling develops the best flavor.
- For an alcohol-free version, simply omit the coffee liqueur.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Cover tightly and store for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Chill Time: 6 hours (or overnight)
Total Time: 6 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 9
Calories: Approximately 420 calories per serving