Best Classic Italian Tiramisu Recipe
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
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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