Tiramisu with Coffee-Soaked Ladyfingers ☕ | Classic Italian Dessert Recipe
This Tiramisu is a classic for a reason! With luscious layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone filling, and a dusting of cocoa, it’s the perfect make-ahead treat for any occasion—no baking required.
🌟 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- ✔️ Rich yet light: Creamy but not too heavy.
- ✔️ No-bake dessert: Perfect for hot days or quick prep.
- ✔️ Make-ahead friendly: Tastes better after chilling overnight.
🛒 Ingredients
- 6 large egg yolks
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 16 oz (450g) mascarpone cheese, cold
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream, cold
- 2 cups strong brewed coffee or espresso, cooled
- 2–3 tbsp coffee liqueur (optional)
- 1 package (7 oz) ladyfinger biscuits (savoiardi)
- Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
- Dark chocolate shavings (optional, for topping)
👩🍳 Instructions – Part 1
- Prepare the mascarpone filling: In a large bowl, whisk egg yolks and sugar together over a double boiler until pale and thickened (about 5–6 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool.
- Add mascarpone: Once the yolk mixture has cooled slightly, gently whisk in the mascarpone until smooth. Do not overmix.
- Whip the cream: In a separate bowl, beat cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold into the mascarpone mixture in two additions until fully incorporated.
🍰 How to Layer Your Tiramisu
- Mix coffee soak: In a shallow bowl, combine cooled espresso or strong coffee with coffee liqueur if using.
- Dip ladyfingers: Quickly dip each ladyfinger (1–2 seconds) and layer them in a single layer in a 9×13″ dish.
- Spread filling: Top with half the mascarpone mixture and smooth out evenly.
- Repeat: Add a second layer of dipped ladyfingers, followed by the remaining mascarpone mixture.
- Dust and chill: Cover and chill for at least 6 hours or overnight. Just before serving, dust with cocoa powder and garnish with chocolate shavings if desired.
💡 Pro Tips
- 🕐 Make it ahead: Tastes even better after 24 hours in the fridge.
- 💦 Don’t soak too long: A quick dip keeps ladyfingers from becoming soggy.
- 🥄 Use chilled ingredients: Cold mascarpone and cream whip and hold better.
🍫 Variations
- 🍓 Berry Tiramisu: Replace coffee with berry juice and add fresh strawberries or raspberries.
- 🍫 Chocolate Tiramisu: Add cocoa to the cream layer and use mocha-soaked ladyfingers.
- 🍂 Autumn Spice: Add a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg to the mascarpone filling.
🧊 Make-Ahead & Storage
- 📅 Fridge: Keeps well covered for up to 4 days.
- ❌ Freezing: Not ideal, as the mascarpone may separate upon thawing.
- 🍽️ Serve cold: Best texture and flavor when chilled overnight.
❓ FAQ
- Can I make this without raw eggs?
Yes! Cook the yolks over a double boiler as shown, or use a recipe that skips eggs and stabilizes with whipped cream only. - What’s the best substitute for mascarpone?
Full-fat cream cheese softened with a bit of sour cream can work in a pinch. - What kind of coffee should I use?
Strong brewed espresso or a dark roast works best. Let it cool before dipping. - Can I skip the alcohol?
Absolutely. Just replace with extra coffee or a splash of vanilla.
🎉 Buon Appetito!
This classic tiramisu is rich, creamy, and surprisingly easy. Whether you’re making it for guests or a cozy treat for yourself, it’s always a showstopper.
