Classic Tiramisu Recipe: An Authentic No-Bake Italian Dessert with Coffee & Mascarpone
This authentic Italian tiramisu features layers of espresso-dipped ladyfingers and a luxuriously creamy mascarpone filling, dusted with cocoa powder for the perfect finish. With no baking required, this elegant dessert comes together effortlessly while delivering the rich, coffee-kissed flavors that make tiramisu a worldwide favorite.
Prep Time:
30 minutes
Cook Time:
6 hours
Calories:
Approximately 420 kcal per serving
ingredients
For the Coffee Mixture:
1½ cups strong brewed espresso or coffee, cooled
2 tbsp coffee liqueur (optional)
2 tbsp granulated sugar
For the Mascarpone Cream:
4 large egg yolks
½ cup granulated sugar
16 oz mascarpone cheese, room temperature
1¼ cups heavy whipping cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
Additional Components:
24-30 ladyfinger cookies (savoiardi)
2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting
Directions——————
1. Prepare the Coffee Dip:
Mix cooled espresso, coffee liqueur (if using), and sugar until dissolved. Set aside.
2. Make the Mascarpone Filling:
Whisk egg yolks and sugar in a heatproof bowl over a double boiler for 8-10 minutes until pale and thickened (160°F).
Remove from heat, beat in mascarpone until smooth.
In a separate bowl, whip cream and vanilla to stiff peaks.
Gently fold whipped cream into mascarpone mixture.
3. Assemble the Tiramisu:
Quickly dip each ladyfinger in coffee mixture (1-2 seconds per side) and arrange in a single layer in a 9×13-inch dish.
Spread half the mascarpone cream over ladyfingers.
Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and remaining cream.
Cover and refrigerate at least 6 hours (preferably overnight).
4. Serve:
Dust generously with cocoa powder just before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make tiramisu without raw eggs?
Yes! Use pasteurized eggs or substitute with ½ cup whipped cream cheese blended into the mascarpone mixture.
2. How long does tiramisu keep?
Stored properly, it lasts 3-4 days refrigerated. The flavors improve after 24 hours.
3. Why are my ladyfingers soggy?
Dip too quickly (1-2 seconds max)! They should absorb coffee but still hold shape.
4. What’s the best coffee to use?
Freshly brewed espresso or strong dark roast coffee works best. Instant espresso powder works in a pinch.
5. Can I freeze tiramisu?
Not recommended – the texture changes upon thawing.
Tools You'll Need
9×13-inch baking dish
Double boiler (or heatproof bowl over saucepan)
Electric mixer
Fine-mesh sieve for cocoa dusting
Rubber spatula
Tips
Use room temperature mascarpone for smoothest blending
Chill mixing bowl before whipping cream
For neat layers, pipe the mascarpone cream
Add a pinch of cinnamon to the cocoa dusting for warmth
Kids’ version: Substitute coffee with chocolate milk
Allergy Information
Contains: Gluten, dairy, eggs
Gluten-free: Use gluten-free ladyfingers
Dairy-free: Substitute with coconut mascarpone and coconut cream
Alcohol-free: Omit liqueur, add ½ tsp coffee extract instead
Conclusion
This classic tiramisu is the ultimate make-ahead dessert that never fails to impress. With its perfect balance of bold coffee, sweet cream, and delicate cookies, each bite is pure indulgence. We’d love to see your beautiful creations—share your tiramisu masterpieces with #PerfectTiramisu and let us know how you made it your own! Buon appetito!
No comment