Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Classic Tiramisu Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

3.8 from 26 reviews

A classic Italian dessert that combines rich espresso-soaked ladyfinger cookies with a creamy mascarpone filling, dusted with cocoa powder. This Tiramisu recipe is perfect for an elegant dessert that requires no baking and is best served chilled after several hours of refrigeration.

  • Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

Beverages

  • 2 cups brewed espresso (or coffee, cooled)

Filling

  • 5 large egg yolks (pasteurized)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 16 ounces mascarpone cheese (chilled)
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream (chilled)
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Assembly

  • 36 hard ladyfinger cookies
  • 1/4 cup Dutch-process cocoa powder

Instructions

  1. Brew the espresso: Prepare 2 cups of strong espresso or coffee and allow it to cool completely before using it to soak the ladyfingers.
  2. Make the filling: Beat the 5 egg yolks with 1/2 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is pale and thick, which should take about 3 to 4 minutes. Add the mascarpone cheese and 1/2 teaspoon salt, beating until smooth and creamy. Pour in the chilled heavy cream and whip until the mixture becomes light and airy with soft peaks, being careful not to overmix.
  3. Dip the ladyfingers: Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the cooled espresso for about 1 to 2 seconds per side. The ladyfingers should be soaked but not soggy to maintain texture.
  4. Layer it up: Arrange a layer of the soaked ladyfingers at the bottom of the serving dish. Spread one-quarter of the mascarpone filling over the top and dust with 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder. Repeat this layering process 3 to 4 times, finishing with a generous dusting of cocoa powder on the top layer.
  5. Chill: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, allowing the flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly.

Notes

  • Use pasteurized egg yolks or cook your egg yolks gently if you are concerned about raw eggs.
  • Ensure the espresso or coffee is completely cooled before dipping the ladyfingers to prevent sogginess and maintain texture.
  • The dessert is best enjoyed after chilling overnight for maximum flavor and firmness.
  • For an alcohol variation, you can add a splash of coffee liqueur like Kahlúa to the espresso.
  • Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator and consume within 2 days for best quality.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Italian