Best Classic Italian Tiramisu Recipe

Introduction

Tiramisu is a timeless Italian dessert known for its rich, creamy layers and bold coffee flavor. This classic recipe combines mascarpone, espresso-soaked ladyfingers, and a delicate cocoa dusting to create an irresistible treat that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 16 oz mascarpone cheese (450g), cold
• 4 egg yolks
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar (133g)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream (360g), chilled
• 30-36 ladyfingers
• 1 1/2 cups strong black coffee, room temperature (360g)
• 2 tbsp cocoa powder for dusting

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine mascarpone cheese, egg yolks, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat until smooth.
2. Step 2: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold it into the mascarpone mixture.
3. Step 3: Dip each ladyfinger briefly into the cooled coffee and arrange half of them in a layer at the bottom of a baking dish.
4. Step 4: Spread half of the cream mixture evenly over the ladyfingers. Repeat with the remaining dipped ladyfingers and top with the remaining cream mixture.
5. Step 5: Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld. Before serving, dust the top with cocoa powder.

Tips & Variations

• Use espresso instead of regular coffee for a more intense flavor.
• For an alcohol twist, add 2 tablespoons of coffee liqueur or Marsala wine to the coffee before dipping ladyfingers.
• Make sure not to soak ladyfingers too long to prevent sogginess; a quick dip is enough.
• For a lighter version, substitute half the heavy cream with Greek yogurt.

Storage

Store tiramisu covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed chilled. If you want to serve it later, allow it to come to room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving for the best texture and flavor.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make tiramisu without raw eggs?

Yes, you can use pasteurized eggs or opt for an eggless version by replacing the egg yolks with whipped cream or a custard alternative.

How long does tiramisu last in the fridge?

Properly stored, tiramisu lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator. It’s best eaten within this time for freshness and texture.

Best Classic Italian Tiramisu Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 83 reviews

This classic Italian tiramisu recipe combines creamy mascarpone, coffee-soaked ladyfingers, and a dusting of cocoa powder to create a rich, indulgent dessert that is perfect for any occasion. Ready in just 23 minutes and chilled to perfection, this no-bake treat serves 12 and captures the authentic flavors of Italy.

• Author: Elias
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (including chilling time)
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Mascarpone Mixture

• 16 oz mascarpone cheese (450g), cold
• 4 egg yolks
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar (133g)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt

Whipped Cream

• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream (360g), chilled

Assembly

• 30–36 ladyfingers
• 1 1/2 cups strong black coffee, room temperature (360g)
• 2 tbsp cocoa powder for dusting

Instructions

1. Prepare the mascarpone mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine cold mascarpone cheese, egg yolks, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat the mixture thoroughly until it becomes smooth and creamy, free of lumps.
2. Whip the cream: In a separate bowl, whip the chilled heavy cream until stiff peaks form, ensuring a light and airy texture. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture to maintain its fluffiness and create a homogenous cream layer.
3. Soak the ladyfingers: Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the room temperature strong black coffee, only briefly to avoid sogginess, then arrange half the dipped ladyfingers in a single layer at the bottom of your chosen baking dish.
4. Layer the tiramisu: Spread half of the creamy mascarpone mixture evenly over the first layer of ladyfingers. Repeat by dipping the remaining ladyfingers in coffee and arranging them in another layer on top of the cream. Finally, spread the remaining mascarpone cream over this second layer.
5. Chill and serve: Cover the dish tightly and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to let the flavors meld and the dessert set firmly. Before serving, dust the top generously with cocoa powder for an authentic finish.

Notes

• Use cold mascarpone and chilled cream for best whipping results and a stable texture.
• Do not soak ladyfingers too long in coffee to prevent soggy dessert layers.
• For an alcohol twist, add 2 tablespoons of coffee liqueur or dark rum to the coffee before dipping ladyfingers.
• Best served chilled and can be made up to one day in advance.
• Use high-quality espresso or strong brewed coffee for a richer flavor.

Keywords: Tiramisu, Italian dessert, mascarpone, coffee dessert, no-bake dessert, classic tiramisu, layered dessert