Description
Authentic Italian Tiramisu is a classic no-bake dessert made with layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, rich mascarpone cheese, and whipped cream, finished with a dusting of cocoa powder and optional chocolate shavings. This elegant dessert combines smooth, creamy textures with bold coffee flavors for a heavenly treat that needs time to chill and set for perfect results.
Ingredients
Scale
Cream Mixture
- 6 egg yolks
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2/3 cup milk
- 1 1/4 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
Assembly
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled to room temperature
- 1/4 cup coffee liqueur (optional)
- 24 ladyfingers
Topping
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- Dark chocolate shavings (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the egg custard: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until well blended to create a smooth mixture.
- Cook the custard: Add the milk and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture boils. Boil gently for 1 minute to thicken. Remove from heat, cover, and allow to cool slightly before refrigerating for about 1 hour.
- Whip the cream: In a medium bowl, beat the heavy cream with vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
- Mix mascarpone and cream: In a large bowl, whisk the mascarpone cheese until smooth. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone until fully combined and no streaks remain.
- Prepare coffee mixture: In a small bowl, combine the cooled brewed coffee and coffee liqueur (if using).
- Dip ladyfingers: Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture, ensuring they are soaked but not soggy.
- First layer assembly: Arrange half of the dipped ladyfingers in the bottom of a 9″x13″ dish in a single layer.
- Add mascarpone layer: Spread half of the mascarpone and cream mixture evenly over the ladyfingers.
- Second layer assembly: Repeat by placing a second layer of dipped ladyfingers over the mascarpone and then spread the remaining mascarpone mixture on top.
- Chill the tiramisu: Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow flavors to meld and dessert to set.
- Final garnish: Before serving, dust the top generously with unsweetened cocoa powder and optionally decorate with dark chocolate shavings for added texture and visual appeal.
Notes
- For best flavor, use strong brewed coffee or espresso and cool it completely before dipping ladyfingers.
- If preferred, omit the coffee liqueur for a non-alcoholic version.
- Be careful not to soak ladyfingers too long to prevent them from becoming soggy and losing texture.
- Chilling overnight enhances the flavor and texture, making the dessert more cohesive and delicious.
- Use fresh eggs and properly cook the custard to ensure safety.
- The mascarpone and whipped cream folding should be gentle to maintain a light and airy texture.
