Tiramisu is a classic Italian dessert known for its creamy texture, coffee-soaked layers, and subtle hint of cocoa. With no baking required, it’s the perfect dessert to prepare ahead of time for gatherings or a treat for yourself. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making tiramisu at home.
Ingredients
For a standard 9×9-inch dish, you’ll need:
- 300g ladyfinger biscuits (savoiardi)
- 500g mascarpone cheese
- 4 large eggs (separated)
- 100g granulated sugar
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee (cooled)
- 2-3 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)
Instructions
Begin by brewing a strong cup of coffee and letting it cool completely. If desired, stir in the coffee liqueur for added depth of flavor. Set this aside in a shallow dish.
Separate the eggs into two large bowls. In the bowl with the egg yolks, add the granulated sugar. Whisk vigorously (or use an electric mixer) until the mixture is pale and creamy.
Add the mascarpone cheese to the yolk mixture, folding it in gently until smooth and well combined.
In the second bowl, beat the egg whites to stiff peaks. Carefully fold the whipped egg whites into the mascarpone mixture in batches. Use a gentle folding motion to maintain the airy texture.
To assemble, briefly dip each ladyfinger into the cooled coffee. Ensure they’re coated but not soggy, as over-soaking can make the tiramisu too wet. Arrange a single layer of dipped ladyfingers in the bottom of your dish.
Spread half of the mascarpone mixture evenly over the ladyfingers. Smooth the surface with a spatula. Repeat the process with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and the remaining mascarpone mixture.
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly.
Just before serving, dust the top with a generous layer of cocoa powder using a fine sieve.
Tips for Success
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Authentic mascarpone and strong espresso make a significant difference.
- Be cautious when dipping the ladyfingers. A quick dip is enough to avoid a soggy texture.
- For an alcohol-free version, skip the coffee liqueur without sacrificing flavor.
Tiramisu is an elegant dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make. Once you’ve tried it, you’ll understand why it’s a beloved favorite around the world. Enjoy every creamy, coffee-infused bite!
