Description
Classic Italian Tiramisu is a luscious, no-bake dessert featuring layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and a silky mascarpone cream, finished with a dusting of cocoa powder. This elegant and easy-to-make treat is perfect for any occasion and delivers the authentic flavors of Italy in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Custard Base
- 6 egg yolks
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2/3 cup milk
Cream Mixture
- 1 1/4 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pound mascarpone cheese
Assembly
- 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
- 2 tablespoons rum
- 2 (3 ounce) packages ladyfinger cookies
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
Instructions
- Prepare the custard: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until well blended. Whisk in the milk and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture boils. Boil gently for 1 minute, then remove from heat and allow to cool slightly. Cover tightly and chill in the refrigerator for 1 hour.
- Make the mascarpone cream: In a medium bowl, beat the heavy cream with vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Whisk the mascarpone cheese into the chilled egg yolk custard until smooth and well combined.
- Soak the ladyfingers: In a small bowl, combine the cooled coffee and rum. Split the ladyfingers lengthwise and drizzle or quickly dip them in the coffee-rum mixture ensuring not to oversoak.
- Assemble the tiramisu: Arrange half of the soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of a 7×11 inch dish. Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers, then top with half of the whipped cream. Repeat these layers, finishing with a dusting of unsweetened cocoa powder on top.
- Chill and serve: Cover the assembled tiramisu and refrigerate for 4 to 6 hours until set. Serve chilled for a rich and creamy dessert experience.
Notes
- Use freshly brewed strong coffee and cool it completely before soaking ladyfingers to avoid sogginess.
- Do not over-soak the ladyfingers; a quick dip or drizzle is sufficient to keep them from falling apart.
- For an alcohol-free version, simply omit the rum and replace it with additional coffee or coffee extract.
- The custard must be cooked and chilled well to ensure a smooth, safe mascarpone mixture.
- For best results, prepare the tiramisu a day ahead to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
