Ingredients
Mascarpone Cream
- 6 Egg yolks
- 150 g Granulated sugar
- 500 g Mascarpone cheese (high fat, cold)
- 350 g Heavy cream (36% fat, very cold; can substitute with equal amount of mascarpone)
Assembly
- 24 pieces Ladyfinger cookies
- 1 cup Coffee (mildly sweetened strong espresso, cooled)
- Marsala wine (optional; if using, mix into the coffee)
- 1-2 tablespoons Unsweetened Dutch-processed cocoa powder (for dusting)
Instructions
- Prepare the egg yolk mixture: Set up a double boiler by simmering water in the bottom pot and placing a heatproof bowl on top. Whisk the egg yolks and sugar together over the simmering water continuously for about 5 minutes until the sugar dissolves and the mixture reaches 85°C (185°F). Keep the heat low to avoid cooking the eggs.
- Cool and whip the egg yolk mixture: Transfer the hot egg yolk mixture to a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment. Whip until it cools down to about 24°C (75°F), making it light and creamy.
- Whip mascarpone and cream: Using an electric hand mixer, whip the cold mascarpone and heavy cream together until early stiff peaks form, about 3 minutes. Be careful not to overwhip to avoid the mixture becoming runny.
- Combine mixtures: Gently fold the whipped mascarpone and cream into the whipped egg yolks using a rubber spatula, preserving the airy texture.
- Prepare the pan: Use an 18×24 cm (7×9 inch) container or an 8×8 inch pan for assembling the tiramisu.
- Dip ladyfingers: Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee (mixed with Marsala if using), then arrange 12 ladyfingers in a single layer at the bottom of the pan.
- Layer and spread cream: Spread half of the mascarpone cream mixture evenly over the first layer of ladyfingers.
- Add second layer: Repeat dipping and layering with the remaining 12 ladyfingers. Spread the remaining mascarpone cream on top and smooth the surface with an offset spatula.
- Chill and set: Refrigerate the tiramisu for at least 4 hours to allow it to set properly and develop flavors.
- Finish and serve: Just before serving, dust the top with 1-2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Avoid freezing.
Notes
- Use cold mascarpone and heavy cream for best whipping results.
- Whisk egg yolks gently over low heat to avoid scrambling.
- The Marsala wine is optional but adds authentic flavor when mixed into the coffee.
- Do not over-dip ladyfingers in coffee, or they will become soggy.
- Do not freeze tiramisu as mascarpone cream does not freeze well and may become grainy.
- Allow at least 4 hours chilling time for best texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian