Best Classic Italian Tiramisu Recipe
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.
- Author: Bella
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
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
- Prepare Coffee: Brew 1 1/2 cups of strong black coffee and let it cool completely to room temperature to avoid soggy ladyfingers.
- 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.
- Dip Ladyfingers: Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the cooled coffee, making sure not to soak them excessively to maintain texture.
- 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.
- Add Second Layer: Repeat the process with a second layer of dipped ladyfingers, then top with the remaining mascarpone mixture, smoothing the surface.
- 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.
- 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