Classic Tiramisu is the ultimate Italian dessert — rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. Layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers are combined with a luscious mascarpone cream and topped with a dusting of cocoa powder. This dessert is elegant enough for dinner parties yet simple enough to prepare at home. If you enjoyed our Lemon Panna Cotta or Fruit Tartlets, you’ll love this indulgent treat.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 8
Ingredients
- 6 large egg yolks
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 16 oz mascarpone cheese (room temperature)
- 2 cups strong brewed espresso (cooled)
- 2 tbsp coffee liqueur (optional)
- 40–45 ladyfinger cookies (savoiardi)
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)
- Dark chocolate shavings (optional)
Instructions
- In a heatproof bowl, whisk egg yolks and sugar over a double boiler until thick and pale. Let cool.
- In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until soft peaks form.
- Fold mascarpone cheese into the egg mixture until smooth.
- Gently fold in whipped cream to create a light mascarpone filling.
- In a shallow dish, combine espresso and coffee liqueur.
- Quickly dip ladyfingers into the coffee mixture and layer them at the bottom of a dish.
- Spread half of the mascarpone filling over the ladyfingers.
- Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and the remaining mascarpone filling.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight) to set.
- Before serving, dust generously with cocoa powder and garnish with chocolate shavings.
Tips & Variations
✦ For a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the liqueur.
✦ Chill overnight for the best flavor and texture.
✦ Learn more about mascarpone cheese and how it enhances desserts.
✦ Pair it with Mini Cinnamon Muffins or a cup of strong espresso for a true Italian experience.
