Indulgent Traditional Italian Tiramisu Recipe
Experience the classic indulgence of traditional Italian tiramisu, featuring smooth mascarpone cream layered with coffee-soaked ladyfingers and topped with a dusting of rich cocoa powder. This no-bake dessert requires minimal preparation and refrigerates to a creamy, airy delight that’s perfect for gatherings or a luxurious treat.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
Egg Mixture
- 4 large Eggs (Ensure they’re fresh and high-quality)
- 150–200 g Sugar (Adjust to taste)
- 500 g Mascarpone Cheese (Cream cheese can substitute but may alter flavor)
Other
- 300 g Ladyfingers (Choose quality ones that absorb coffee well)
- 250 ml Brewed Espresso or Instant Coffee (Adjust strength to preference)
- 30 g Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (Dust on top for visual appeal and contrast)
Instructions
- Separate Eggs: Carefully crack the eggs, separating the egg whites and yolks into two clean bowls to prepare for different mixing techniques.
- Whisk Yolks: Combine the egg yolks with the sugar and whisk on medium speed for 3 to 5 minutes until the mixture becomes thick, creamy, and frothy.
- Mix Mascarpone: Gently fold the mascarpone cheese into the whipped yolk mixture until smooth and well-incorporated without deflating the volume.
- Whip Egg Whites: Beat the egg whites in a separate clean bowl until stiff peaks form to ensure maximum airiness.
- Fold Mixtures: Incorporate one quarter of the whipped egg whites into the mascarpone mixture to lighten it, then carefully fold in the remaining egg whites to maintain fluffiness.
- Prepare Coffee Dip: Pour the brewed espresso or coffee into a shallow dish and briefly dip each ladyfinger for 1 to 2 seconds, allowing them to soak without becoming soggy.
- Layer: Arrange half of the dipped ladyfingers in the bottom of your serving dish, spread half of the mascarpone filling evenly over them, then repeat the layers with the remaining ladyfingers and mascarpone cream.
- Chill: Cover the assembled tiramisu and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or preferably overnight, allowing the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.
- Serve: Just before serving, dust the top generously with unsweetened cocoa powder for a classic finish and visual appeal.
Notes
- Use fresh, high-quality eggs to ensure the best texture and flavor.
- Adjust the sugar amount according to your preference for sweetness.
- For a non-alcoholic version, omit any liqueur often added in traditional recipes.
- If mascarpone is unavailable, cream cheese can be used but expect a slightly different taste and texture.
- Do not soak the ladyfingers for too long to avoid a soggy dessert.
- Chilling overnight intensifies the flavors and improves the dessert’s texture.
- For added flavor, consider dusting with a bit of instant espresso powder along with cocoa powder.
Keywords: Tiramisu, Italian Dessert, Mascarpone, Coffee Dessert, No-Bake Dessert, Classic Tiramisu
