Tiramisu is a classic Italian dessert that blends layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers with creamy mascarpone filling, creating a rich and indulgent treat. Known for its velvety texture and bittersweet flavor, this dessert has won hearts across the globe. The beauty of tiramisu lies in its no-bake method, making it an ideal choice for quick yet impressive desserts. With the right balance of sweetness, coffee, and cocoa, every bite feels like a little piece of heaven.
Ingredients of Tiramisu with pictures
- Ladyfinger biscuits
- Freshly brewed espresso or strong coffee
- Mascarpone cheese
- Granulated sugar
- Egg yolks
- Heavy cream
- Unsweetened
- Unsweetened cocoa powder
- Vanilla extract
Ingredients of Tiramisu with Quantities
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ladyfinger biscuits | 200 g |
| Espresso or strong coffee | 1 ½ cups (cooled) |
| Mascarpone cheese | 250 g |
| Granulated sugar | ½ cup |
| Egg yolks | 4 large |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Unsweetened cocoa powder | 2 tbsp |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
Step by Step Tiramisu recipe
-
Brew the coffee
Prepare strong espresso or coffee and set it aside to cool. For a richer taste, add a splash of coffee liqueur. -
Separate the eggs
Crack the eggs and separate the yolks from the whites (only yolks are needed for this recipe). -
Make the egg-sugar mixture
In a heatproof bowl, whisk egg yolks and sugar until pale and creamy. You can place the bowl over a pan of simmering water (double boiler) for 3–4 minutes while whisking to ensure safety if you’re avoiding raw eggs. -
Add mascarpone
Gently mix the mascarpone cheese into the egg mixture until smooth and lump-free. -
Whip the cream
In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until soft peaks form. -
Combine cream with mascarpone mixture
Fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture slowly, keeping the mixture light and airy. -
Prepare ladyfingers
Quickly dip each ladyfinger biscuit into the cooled coffee. Avoid soaking them too long to prevent sogginess. -
Layer the tiramisu
First layer: Arrange dipped ladyfingers in the bottom of your serving dish.
Second layer: Spread half of the mascarpone cream mixture on top.
Third layer: Repeat with another layer of coffee-dipped ladyfingers.
Fourth layer: Spread the remaining cream mixture evenly.
-
Dust with cocoa powder
Use a fine sieve to sprinkle an even layer of unsweetened cocoa powder over the top. -
Chill before serving
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best) to let the flavors blend beautifully.
Tips & Variations
- Use decaf coffee if you want a caffeine-free dessert.
- Replace egg yolks with extra whipped cream for an egg-free version.
- Add chocolate shavings or grated dark chocolate for extra richness.
- For a fruity twist, add a thin layer of sliced strawberries or raspberries between the cream layers.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve chilled in individual dessert cups for a party-friendly version.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves or coffee beans for a café-style look.
- Pair with a hot cappuccino or espresso for the ultimate Italian experience.
Nutritional Info about Tiramisu
| Nutrient | Per Serving (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 40 g |
| Protein | 7 g |
| Fat | 30 g |
| Saturated Fat | 18 g |
| Cholesterol | 180 mg |
| Sodium | 120 mg |
| Sugar | 25 g |
FAQs about Tiramisu
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can I make tiramisu without alcohol? | Yes, simply use plain coffee without liqueur. |
| How long can tiramisu last in the fridge? | Up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. |
| Can I freeze tiramisu? | Yes, but the texture may slightly change upon thawing. |
| Is tiramisu safe for kids? | Use decaf coffee and skip alcohol to make it child-friendly. |
| Can I use whipped topping instead of cream? | Yes, but fresh whipped cream gives better flavor and texture. |
Benefits of Tiramisu
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Mood booster | The coffee and sugar combination can uplift energy levels. |
| Rich in calcium | Mascarpone and cream provide a good dose of calcium for bone health. |
| Quick to prepare | No baking required, saving time in the kitchen. |
| Perfect for gatherings | A crowd-pleasing dessert loved by all ages. |
Disadvantages of Tiramisu
| Disadvantage | Description |
|---|---|
| High in calories | May contribute to weight gain if eaten excessively. |
| Contains caffeine | Not suitable for those sensitive to caffeine. |
| High sugar content | Can affect blood sugar levels in diabetics. |
| Not suitable for raw egg concerns | Traditional recipes use raw egg yolks, which may pose a health risk if not handled properly. |
This tiramisu recipe blends traditional Italian charm with a touch of simplicity, making it perfect for both beginner and seasoned dessert lovers. The creamy layers, combined with the subtle bitterness of coffee, create an unforgettable taste. Whether served at family dinners or festive occasions, tiramisu always leaves a lasting impression.