Tiramisu Recipe

Tiramisu

A classic Italian dessert featuring layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and rich mascarpone cream, dusted with cocoa powder. Smooth, creamy, and indulgent, tiramisu is perfect for special occasions or as a luxurious treat after dinner.

Ingredients

For the Cream Filling:

• 1 cup (8 oz) mascarpone cheese, softened

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Espresso Mixture:

• 1 1/2 cups strong brewed espresso or coffee, cooled

• 2 tbsp coffee liqueur (optional)

For the Assembly:

• 24–28 ladyfinger cookies (savoiardi)

• Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting

• Dark chocolate shavings (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare Espresso Mixture:
   In a shallow dish, combine cooled espresso with coffee liqueur, if using. Set aside.

2. Make Cream Filling:
   In a large bowl, whip heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Gently fold in mascarpone cheese until smooth and creamy.

3. Dip Ladyfingers:
   Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the espresso mixture (do not soak; just a quick dip to avoid soggy cookies).

4. Assemble Tiramisu:
   Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of a 9×9-inch dish. Spread half of the mascarpone cream over the layer. Repeat with another layer of soaked ladyfingers and the remaining mascarpone cream. Smooth the top.

5. Chill:
   Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow flavors to meld and the dessert to set.

6. Serve:
   Dust with unsweetened cocoa powder and garnish with dark chocolate shavings, if desired. Slice and serve chilled.

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl

• Electric mixer or whisk

• Shallow dish for espresso

• 9×9-inch baking dish or similar

• Spatula

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Sifter or fine mesh for cocoa powder

Timing

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Chill Time: 4 hours (or overnight)

• Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes

Serving Size
Serves 8

Tiramisu

A classic Italian dessert featuring layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and rich mascarpone cream, dusted with cocoa powder. Smooth, creamy, and indulgent, tiramisu is perfect for special occasions or as a luxurious treat after dinner.

Print Recipe

Prep Time:20 minutes mins

Total Time:4 hours hrs 20 minutes mins

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Shallow dish for espresso
• 9x9-inch baking dish or similar
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sifter or fine mesh for cocoa powder

Ingredients

• For the Cream Filling:
• 1 cup 8 oz mascarpone cheese, softened
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• For the Espresso Mixture:
• 1 1/2 cups strong brewed espresso or coffee cooled
• 2 tbsp coffee liqueur optional
• For the Assembly:
• 24 –28 ladyfinger cookies savoiardi
• Unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting
• Dark chocolate shavings optional

Instructions

• Prepare Espresso Mixture:
• In a shallow dish, combine cooled espresso with coffee liqueur, if using. Set aside.
• Make Cream Filling:
• In a large bowl, whip heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Gently fold in mascarpone cheese until smooth and creamy.
• Dip Ladyfingers:
• Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the espresso mixture (do not soak; just a quick dip to avoid soggy cookies).
• Assemble Tiramisu:
• Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of a 9x9-inch dish. Spread half of the mascarpone cream over the layer. Repeat with another layer of soaked ladyfingers and the remaining mascarpone cream. Smooth the top.
• Chill:
• Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow flavors to meld and the dessert to set.
• Serve:
• Dust with unsweetened cocoa powder and garnish with dark chocolate shavings, if desired. Slice and serve chilled.

Servings: 8 servings

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make tiramisu ahead of time?
Yes. Tiramisu actually tastes better when made a few hours in advance or overnight, allowing the flavors to meld.

Can I use decaf coffee?
Yes. Decaf espresso or coffee works perfectly if you want a caffeine-free version.

Can I make it alcohol-free?
Yes. Simply omit the coffee liqueur or substitute with a small amount of vanilla extract.

Can I use a different type of cookie?
Yes. Ladyfingers are traditional, but sponge cake or pound cake slices can also work.

Can I make individual servings?
Yes. Use small cups or ramekins to create personal tiramisu portions.

Can I use store-bought mascarpone?
Yes. Store-bought mascarpone is recommended for convenience and consistency.

Can I freeze tiramisu?
Yes. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Can I substitute whipped cream with something else?
Yes. Some recipes fold in egg yolks or custard, but whipped cream keeps it light and creamy without cooking eggs.

Can I make a low-sugar version?
Yes. Reduce sugar slightly or use a sugar substitute but keep some sweetness to balance the espresso.

How do I prevent tiramisu from being too soggy?
Quickly dip the ladyfingers into the espresso mixture do not soak them, or they will become overly wet.

How To Store Tiramisu

Refrigerator:
Store covered in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Keep it chilled to maintain texture.

Freezer:
Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Serving Tips:
Dust with cocoa powder just before serving for a fresh look. Slice with a sharp knife for clean portions.