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Best Classic Italian Tiramisu Recipe

5 from 117 reviews

This Best Classic Italian Tiramisu Recipe captures the authentic flavors of the beloved Italian dessert, featuring layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone mixture, and a finishing dusting of cocoa powder. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients and perfect for a make-ahead treat that impresses every time.

Ingredients

Scale

Mascarpone Mixture

  • 16 oz cold mascarpone cheese
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream (or whipped egg whites)
  • 4 egg yolks (or 4 egg whites)

Other Ingredients

  • ~30 ladyfingers
  • 1 1/2 cups strong black coffee, cooled to room temperature
  • 2 tbsp cocoa powder for dusting

Instructions

  1. Prepare Coffee: Brew 1 1/2 cups of strong black coffee and let it cool completely to room temperature to avoid soggy ladyfingers.
  2. Mix Mascarpone Filling: In a large bowl, blend 16 oz cold mascarpone cheese with 3/4 cup sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, whip 1 1/2 cups heavy cream (or egg whites) to stiff peaks, then gently fold it into the mascarpone mixture for a light, airy texture.
  3. Dip Ladyfingers: Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the cooled coffee, making sure not to soak them excessively to maintain texture.
  4. Assemble First Layer: Arrange half of the dipped ladyfingers in a single layer in a baking dish. Spread half of the mascarpone filling evenly over this layer.
  5. Add Second Layer: Repeat the process with a second layer of dipped ladyfingers, then top with the remaining mascarpone mixture, smoothing the surface.
  6. Chill: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least four hours, preferably overnight, to allow flavors to meld and the dessert to set perfectly.
  7. Serve: Just before serving, dust the top generously with 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder for a classic finish.

Notes

  • For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with whipped egg whites as indicated.
  • Ensure coffee is completely cooled before dipping ladyfingers to prevent them from becoming soggy.
  • Tiramisu tastes best after it has rested overnight in the refrigerator.
  • You can add a splash of coffee liqueur or rum to the coffee for an authentic boozy touch, if desired.
  • Use freshly sifted cocoa powder to avoid lumps and ensure even dusting.

Keywords: classic tiramisu, Italian dessert, mascarpone dessert, coffee dessert, no bake tiramisu