Recipe Information
Prep Time: 35 minutes
Chill Time: 6 hours or overnight
Total Time: 6 hours 35 minutes
Servings: 12
Ingredients
For the Coffee Mixture
- 1½ cups strong brewed espresso or coffee, cooled
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Mascarpone Filling
- 6 large egg yolks
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream
- 16 ounces (450g) mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Assembly
- 2 packages (about 7 ounces each) ladyfinger cookies (Savoiardi)
- Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
- Dark chocolate shavings (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Coffee Mixture
In a shallow bowl, combine:
- Cooled espresso
- Sugar
- Vanilla extract
Stir until the sugar dissolves.
Set aside to cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Mascarpone Base
In a heatproof bowl, whisk together:
- Egg yolks
- Sugar
Place the bowl over a saucepan of simmering water.
Whisk continuously for 5–7 minutes until the mixture becomes pale, thick, and slightly warm.
Remove from heat and allow to cool for 10 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Mascarpone
In a large bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese until smooth.
Gradually fold the cooled egg mixture into the mascarpone.
Add vanilla extract and mix gently until combined.
Step 4: Whip the Cream
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
Carefully fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture.
Mix gently to maintain a light and airy texture.
Step 5: Prepare the Ladyfingers
Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture for 1–2 seconds per side.
Do not soak them completely, or they may become too soft.
Arrange a single layer in the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish.
Step 6: Add the First Cream Layer
Spread half of the mascarpone mixture evenly over the ladyfingers.
Use a spatula to smooth the surface.
Step 7: Create the Second Layer
Dip the remaining ladyfingers in the coffee mixture and arrange them over the cream layer.
Spread the remaining mascarpone mixture evenly on top.
Smooth the surface carefully.
Step 8: Chill
Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap.
Refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.
This allows the flavors to blend and the dessert to set properly.
Step 9: Finish with Cocoa
Just before serving, dust the top generously with unsweetened cocoa powder using a fine-mesh sieve.
Add chocolate shavings if desired.
Step 10: Serve
Cut into squares and serve chilled.
Enjoy with coffee, espresso, or your favorite after-dinner drink.
Tips for Perfect Tiramisu
- Use high-quality mascarpone cheese for the best flavor.
- Chill overnight for a richer taste and better texture.
- Dip ladyfingers quickly to prevent sogginess.
- Use strong espresso for authentic flavor.
- Dust with cocoa powder just before serving.
Delicious Variations
Chocolate Tiramisu
Add layers of shaved dark chocolate between the cream layers.
Berry Tiramisu
Add fresh strawberries or raspberries between layers.
Nutella Tiramisu
Spread a thin layer of Nutella over the ladyfingers.
Caramel Tiramisu
Drizzle caramel sauce between the layers.
Mocha Tiramisu
Mix cocoa powder directly into the coffee mixture for extra chocolate flavor.
Storage
Refrigerator
Store covered for up to 4 days.
Freezer
Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 420
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Protein: 7g
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 85mg
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No baking required
- Rich and creamy texture
- Authentic Italian flavor
- Perfect make-ahead dessert
- Elegant enough for special occasions
- Easy to customize
