Indulgent 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
Scale
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
