Description
Tiramisu is a classic Italian no-bake dessert that combines layers of coffee-soaked ladyfinger cookies with a rich, creamy mascarpone filling. Silky egg yolk custard blends with whipped cream and mascarpone cheese to create a luscious texture, while a dusting of cocoa powder and optional chocolate shavings add a final touch of indulgence. This elegant layered dessert is best prepared ahead of time to allow the flavors to meld perfectly.
Ingredients
Scale
Custard Base
- 6 large egg yolks
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
Mascarpone Cream
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese, softened
Assembly
- 1 1/2 cups strong brewed espresso or coffee, cooled
- 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)
- 1 package (about 7 ounces) ladyfinger cookies (savoiardi)
- Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
- Dark chocolate shavings (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar together over a double boiler or a heatproof bowl set atop simmering water. Whisk constantly for 6–8 minutes until the mixture thickens and becomes pale in color. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- Whip the cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, ensuring it holds shape but remains light.
- Combine mascarpone and custard: In another bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese until smooth. Then gently fold the mascarpone into the cooled egg yolk mixture until fully incorporated. Carefully fold the whipped cream in two additions, mixing gently to maintain the airy texture without deflating it.
- Prepare coffee dipping liquid: In a shallow dish, mix the cooled espresso or brewed coffee with coffee liqueur if using. Quickly dip each ladyfinger cookie into the coffee mixture for about 1 to 2 seconds per side, being sure not to soak them to prevent sogginess.
- Assemble layers: Arrange a layer of the dipped ladyfingers evenly in the bottom of a 9×9-inch dish or trifle bowl. Spread half of the mascarpone cream mixture evenly over the ladyfingers. Repeat with a second layer of coffee-dipped ladyfingers and the remaining mascarpone cream.
- Chill and finish: Cover the assembled tiramisu and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to develop and the dessert to set. Before serving, dust the top generously with unsweetened cocoa powder and sprinkle with dark chocolate shavings if desired.
Notes
- For a kid-friendly version, omit the coffee liqueur to keep the dessert alcohol-free.
- Tiramisu is best made a day ahead to fully develop its rich and harmonious flavors.
- Make sure not to over-soak the ladyfingers to maintain the dessert’s ideal texture.
- You can substitute coffee liqueur with coffee extract or omit it altogether for non-alcoholic versions.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
