Description
Tiramisu is a classic Italian no-bake dessert made with delicate ladyfingers soaked in espresso, layered with a rich mascarpone cream, and finished with a generous dusting of cocoa powder. This elegant make-ahead dessert is perfect for dinner parties, holidays, and special occasions.
Ingredients
- 24 ladyfinger biscuits (Savoiardi)
- 1 1/2 cups strong brewed espresso, cooled
- 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)
- 16 oz mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large egg yolks (pasteurized recommended)
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
- 1 oz dark chocolate, finely grated (optional)
- Chocolate-covered espresso beans for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a shallow dish, combine the cooled espresso with the coffee liqueur, if using.
- Beat the egg yolks and sugar together until pale and creamy.
- Add the mascarpone cheese and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully combined.
- Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the espresso mixture, avoiding over-soaking.
- Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch serving dish.
- Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers.
- Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and the remaining mascarpone mixture.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.
- Before serving, dust generously with cocoa powder.
- Garnish with grated dark chocolate and chocolate-covered espresso beans if desired.
Notes
- Do not soak the ladyfingers for more than 1-2 seconds to prevent a soggy dessert.
- Mascarpone should be cool but softened slightly for easy mixing.
- Using pasteurized eggs is recommended if preparing with raw egg yolks.
- Tiramisu tastes even better after chilling overnight.
- Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Italian