Classic Tiramisu

Classic Tiramisu features delicate ladyfingers soaked in rich coffee and layered with creamy mascarpone. It’s a simple yet elegant dessert perfect for any occasion.

Tiramisu might sound fancy, but making it at home is way easier than you think. With just a few simple ingredients such as coffee, cream, and cocoa. You can impress your friends and family with a dessert that tastes like it came straight from an Italian café.

It’s elegant, and most importantly, it’s downright delicious, especially when paired with my favorite Affogato Italian coffee dessert.

Why I love this recipe

I love this recipe because it’s so easy to make, even if you’re just starting in the kitchen. The layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone come together perfectly, making a dessert that’s hard to resist. Also, the blend of espresso and dark rum adds a unique depth of flavor that is always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• large egg yolks
• granulated sugar
• mascarpone cheese
• heavy cream
• freshly brewed espresso
• dark rum or coffee liqueur
• vanilla extract
• ladyfingers (Savoiardi biscuits)
• unsweetened cocoa powder
• dark chocolate shavings

Step by step

1. Prepare the mascarpone mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until smooth and creamy. Place the mixture over a double boiler and whisk constantly for about 5-7 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
2. Add mascarpone: Once cooled, gently fold in the mascarpone cheese until fully combined and smooth.
3. Whip the cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Carefully fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture.

1. Prepare the espresso dip: In a shallow dish, mix the cooled espresso with the rum or coffee liqueur if using.
2. Assemble the tiramisu: Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the espresso mixture and place them in a single layer at the bottom of a 9×9-inch dish or a similarly sized serving dish.
3. Layer the cream: Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the soaked ladyfingers. Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers, followed by the remaining mascarpone mixture.

1. Chill and garnish: Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set. Before serving, dust the top with cocoa powder and garnish with dark chocolate shavings if desired.

Variations

You can easily lighten it up by replacing half of the heavy cream with whipped coconut cream. If you want to add some brightness, fresh berries or a hint of orange zest in the mascarpone cream will do the trick. These simple changes keep the dessert exciting and fresh, without losing its classic charm.

Storage

Store tiramisu covered or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. As it sits, the flavors meld together, so making it ahead of time is no problem.

If you try this recipe please comment and rate it below, I love hearing from you!