Indulgent Traditional Italian Tiramisu Recipe
Introduction
This indulgent traditional Italian tiramisu is a luscious dessert that’s both creamy and rich, perfect for any special occasion. With layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cream, it’s a classic treat you won’t be able to resist.
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs (ensure they’re fresh and high-quality)
- 150-200 g sugar (adjust to taste)
- 500 g mascarpone cheese (cream cheese can substitute but may alter flavor)
- 300 g ladyfingers (choose quality ones that absorb coffee well)
- 250 ml brewed espresso or instant coffee (adjust strength to preference)
- 30 g unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting on top)
Instructions
- Step 1: Separate the eggs, placing the whites in one bowl and the yolks in another.
- Step 2: Whisk the yolks with sugar on medium speed for 3-5 minutes until the mixture is thick and frothy.
- Step 3: Fold the mascarpone cheese gently into the yolk mixture until smooth and well combined.
- Step 4: Beat the egg whites in a clean bowl until stiff peaks form.
- Step 5: Carefully incorporate one quarter of the whipped egg whites into the yolk mixture to lighten it, then fold in the remaining egg whites gently.
- Step 6: Pour the brewed coffee into a shallow plate; briefly dip each ladyfinger for 1-2 seconds, ensuring they soak up coffee but don’t become soggy.
- Step 7: Arrange half of the dipped ladyfingers in a serving dish and spread half of the mascarpone filling evenly over them.
- Step 8: Repeat the layering with the remaining ladyfingers and mascarpone filling.
- Step 9: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld and the dessert to set.
- Step 10: Just before serving, dust the top generously with unsweetened cocoa powder for a rich finish.
Tips & Variations
- Use freshly brewed strong espresso for the best coffee flavor, or adjust with instant coffee to your taste preference.
- If mascarpone is not available, cream cheese is a substitute but may slightly change the flavor and texture.
- For a boozy twist, add a tablespoon of coffee liqueur or rum to the coffee before dipping ladyfingers.
- Be careful not to over-soak the ladyfingers to prevent a soggy tiramisu.
Storage
Store the tiramisu covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days for optimal freshness. It is best enjoyed chilled. When ready to serve, let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to soften slightly. Do not freeze, as the texture may be compromised.
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 substitute the egg yolk and white mixture with whipped cream for a safer alternative, though this will alter the traditional texture slightly.
How long should I let tiramisu chill before serving?
It’s best to refrigerate tiramisu for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to develop and the dessert to set properly.
PrintIndulgent Traditional Italian Tiramisu Recipe
This traditional Italian tiramisu is a rich and indulgent dessert made with layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone mixture, and a dusting of cocoa powder. Perfectly balanced with sweet, frothy egg yolks and delicate whipped egg whites, this no-bake classic dessert is chilled for several hours to develop its signature silky texture and full-bodied flavor. Ideal for coffee lovers and those seeking an authentic Italian treat.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Egg Mixture
- 4 large Eggs (Ensure they’re fresh and high-quality)
- 150–200 g Sugar (Adjust to taste)
- 500 g Mascarpone Cheese (Cream cheese can substitute but may alter flavor)
Soaking Liquid
- 250 ml Brewed Espresso or Instant Coffee (Adjust strength to preference)
Base
- 300 g Ladyfingers (Choose quality ones that absorb coffee well)
Topping
- 30 g Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (Dust on top for visual appeal and contrast)
Instructions
- Separate Eggs: Crack the eggs carefully, separating the whites into one bowl and the yolks into another to prepare for the two-step mixing process.
- Whisk Yolks: Combine the egg yolks with sugar and whisk on medium speed for 3-5 minutes, or until the mixture becomes thick and frothy, which ensures a creamy texture.
- Mix Mascarpone: Gently fold the mascarpone cheese into the whisked yolk mixture until fully blended and smooth without overmixing to keep the lightness intact.
- Whip Egg Whites: In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form to provide the airy lift needed for the filling.
- Fold Mixtures: Incorporate a quarter of the whipped egg whites into the mascarpone yolk mixture to lighten it, then carefully fold in the remaining whites to maintain the fluffy texture.
- Prepare Coffee Dip: Pour the brewed espresso into a shallow plate and quickly dip each ladyfinger for 1-2 seconds to absorb the coffee without becoming soggy.
- Layer: Arrange half of the coffee-dipped ladyfingers in a serving dish, spread half of the mascarpone filling over them, then repeat the layers with the remaining ladyfingers and filling.
- Chill: Cover the dish with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or preferably overnight to allow flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly.
- Serve: Before serving, dust a generous layer of unsweetened cocoa powder evenly over the top for a rich, visual finish and to enhance the classic taste.
Notes
- Use fresh, high-quality eggs to ensure safety and best flavor.
- Adjust sugar quantity to personal preference for sweetness.
- Cream cheese can be used as a substitute for mascarpone but will slightly change the flavor and texture.
- Do not soak ladyfingers too long to avoid a soggy dessert.
- Chilling time is essential for the dessert to firm up and develop its characteristic taste.
- For an adult version, a tablespoon of coffee liqueur can be added to the espresso.
Keywords: Tiramisu, Italian dessert, coffee dessert, mascarpone, layered dessert, no-bake tiramisu, classic dessert
