Why You’ll Love Classic Italian Tiramisu Recipe
-
It delivers an authentic Italian flavor and texture.
-
You can make it with or without alcohol depending on your preference.
-
Two methods for the mascarpone cream: with whipped cream or with egg whites.
-
It’s a great make-ahead dessert—perfect for entertaining.
-
Simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps make it accessible for home bakers.
-
The cream holds its shape beautifully, ensuring a clean, elegant presentation.
-
It’s not too sweet—just the right balance of richness and flavor.
-
The coffee flavor shines without being overpowering.
-
No baking required.
-
It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Mascarpone Cream:
16 oz mascarpone cheese, cold
4 egg yolks
⅔ cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
¼ tsp salt
1½ cups heavy cream, chilled (or use 4 egg whites instead of cream)
Assembly:
30–36 ladyfingers
1½ cups strong black coffee, room temperature
2 tbsp cocoa powder (for dusting)
Directions
Mascarpone Cream – Whipped Cream Method (Recommended):
-
In a bowl, whisk cold mascarpone cheese until smooth and creamy.
-
In a separate heatproof bowl, combine egg yolks and sugar. Place over a simmering pot of water and whisk for about 2 minutes until pale and slightly thickened.
-
Remove from heat and gently whisk the egg mixture into the mascarpone along with vanilla and salt.
-
In another bowl, whip heavy cream until medium-stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture in batches until fully combined.
Mascarpone Cream – Egg White Method:
-
Prepare the mascarpone and egg yolk mixture as above.
-
In a heatproof bowl, whisk 4 egg whites with the sugar over a double boiler until warm and glossy, or until it reaches a safe temperature (about 160°F).
-
Beat until stiff peaks form.
-
Fold the egg white meringue into the mascarpone mixture gently to maintain volume.
Assembling the Tiramisu:
-
Pour the coffee into a shallow bowl.
-
Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee (just a second on each side) and lay them in a single layer in your dish.
-
Spread half of the mascarpone cream evenly over the ladyfingers.
-
Add a second layer of dipped ladyfingers.
-
Spread the remaining mascarpone cream on top and smooth it out.
-
Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.
-
Before serving, dust generously with cocoa powder.
Servings and timing
Serves: 8–10 people
Prep time: 30 minutes
Chill time: 6–24 hours
Total time: Approximately 6½ hours (including chilling)
Variations
-
With Alcohol: Add up to ¼ cup of dark rum, coffee liqueur, or marsala wine. Half can be mixed into the coffee and the other half into the cream.
-
Egg-Free Option: Skip the egg yolks entirely and use only mascarpone and whipped cream for a simpler version.
-
Chocolate Tiramisu: Add a layer of chocolate ganache between the layers for a more decadent twist.
-
Berry Tiramisu: Add sliced strawberries or raspberries between the layers for a fruity variation.
-
Nutty Tiramisu: Sprinkle chopped hazelnuts or almonds between the layers for added crunch.
-
Vegan Version: Use dairy-free whipped topping and plant-based mascarpone alternatives.
Storage/Reheating
-
Refrigeration: Store tiramisu in the refrigerator, tightly covered, for up to 5 days.
-
Freezing: You can freeze tiramisu for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly and thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
-
Reheating: Tiramisu is best served chilled and should not be reheated.
FAQs
How long should tiramisu chill before serving?
Tiramisu should chill for at least 6 hours, but overnight chilling is best for a fully set texture and developed flavor.
Can I make tiramisu without alcohol?
Yes, this recipe is naturally alcohol-free. You can always add alcohol if desired, but it’s completely optional.
What type of coffee should I use?
Strong black coffee or espresso works best. It should be cooled to room temperature before dipping the ladyfingers.
Can I use store-bought whipped cream instead of making it?
Freshly whipped cream is recommended for the best texture, but stabilized store-bought whipped cream can be used in a pinch.
Are raw eggs safe to use in tiramisu?
The egg yolks and whites are gently cooked over a double boiler to reduce the risk, but always use fresh, high-quality eggs.
What if I can’t find mascarpone cheese?
You can substitute with a mixture of cream cheese and heavy cream, though the texture and flavor will differ slightly from authentic tiramisu.
Can I make tiramisu ahead of time?
Yes, tiramisu is the perfect make-ahead dessert. It actually tastes better the next day after the flavors have melded together.
Why are my ladyfingers soggy?
Ladyfingers should only be dipped quickly into the coffee. Over-soaking causes them to become mushy.
Can I layer tiramisu in individual cups?
Absolutely. Individual servings are great for presentation and portion control. Follow the same layering method in cups or jars.
Do I need to bake anything in this recipe?
No baking is required. Tiramisu is a no-bake dessert, which makes it quick and easy to prepare.
Conclusion
Classic Italian tiramisu is a luxurious yet surprisingly easy dessert that blends bold coffee flavor with smooth, creamy layers. Whether you’re making it for a holiday, dinner party, or simply to treat yourself, it’s a recipe that never fails to impress. With versatile options for preparation and flavors, this timeless favorite is sure to become a regular in your dessert rotation.
