Traditional Tiramisu recipe | Italian coffee dessert
Authentic Italian Tiramisu Recipe: A Delightful Classic
There’s something magical about a dessert that can transport you straight to the charming streets of Italy with just one bite. Tiramisu, the iconic Italian dessert, holds a special place in my heart (and taste buds). I still remember the first time I tried it—on a trip to a quaint little café in Florence. One spoonful of that creamy, coffee-soaked delight, and I was hooked for life. It’s a dessert that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also brings a sense of warmth and comfort.
In this post, we’ll dive deep into the art of making an authentic tiramisu at home, exploring its rich history, sharing my foolproof recipe, and sprinkling in tips to perfect it.
Table of contents
A Brief History of Tiramisu
Tiramisu, meaning "pick me up" in Italian, originated in the Veneto region of Italy during the 1960s. Its name reflects the energizing combination of coffee and cocoa. Over the years, this dessert has become a worldwide favorite, evolving into countless variations, but nothing beats the charm of the traditional recipe.
Are you more curious to learn about the history and its pairings and more , check out the history of tiramisu here.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Authenticity: This recipe stays true to the original Venetian style.
- Rich and Creamy Texture: Every layer is perfectly balanced to create a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
- Easy to Follow: Even if you’re new to making desserts, these step-by-step instructions will guide you.
- No-Bake Wonder: No need to turn on your oven!
Recipe for Classic Italian Tiramisu
Classic Italian Tiramisu recipe
Tiramisu is the ultimate no-bake Italian dessert that layers espresso-soaked ladyfingers with a luscious mascarpone cream, all dusted with cocoa for that perfect bittersweet finish. Born in Italy, this rich yet airy delight is all about balance—bold coffee, velvety cream, and a hint of cocoa magic. Whether you keep it classic, make it boozy, or go for a twist like matcha or fruit-infused versions, tiramisu never disappoints!
- Mixing bowls and spatula
- Stand mixer
- Glass or tray to set
- Refrigerator
- Baking tray
- Baking Oven
- Silicon sheet or molds
For the Coffee Soak
- 250 ml espresso or strong brewed coffee, cooled
- 20 ml coffee liqueur (Marsala wine, dark rum, or Kahlúa) (optional)
For the Mascarpone Cream
- 3 Egg yolks
- 100 g Sugar
- 250 g Mascarpone cheese
- 200 ml Heavy cream
- 5 ml Vanilla extract
For the Ladyfingers (Savoiardi Biscuits)
- 3 Eggs (separated)
- 100 g Sugar
- 5 ml Vanilla extract
- 100 g All purpose flour
- 3 g Baking powder
- A Pinch Salt
- Powdered sugar (to dust)
For Assembly & Topping
- unsweetened cocoa powder
- Dark chocolate shavings
Make the Homemade Ladyfingers
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Whip the egg yolks & sugar: In a bowl, whisk egg yolks with 50g (¼ cup) sugar until pale and fluffy. Stir in vanilla extract.
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Whip the egg whites: In a separate clean bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until soft peaks form. Gradually add the remaining 50g (¼ cup) sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.
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Combine & fold: Gently fold the egg yolk mixture into the whipped egg whites, careful not to deflate the batter.
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Sift the dry ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Sift this over the egg mixture and gently fold until just combined.
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Pipe & bake: Transfer the batter to a piping bag and pipe 3-inch long strips onto the parchment-lined baking sheet. Dust with powdered sugar.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let cool completely before using.
Prepare the Coffee Soak
- Brew a strong espresso and let it cool completely.
- Stir in coffee liqueur, if using. Set aside.
Make the Mascarpone Cream
- In a heatproof bowl, whisk egg yolks and sugar together. Place over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method) and whisk constantly for 5 minutes until thick and pale. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Add mascarpone cheese and mix until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully combined.
Assemble the Tiramisu
- Quickly dip each homemade ladyfinger into the cooled espresso mixture (just a second—don’t let them get soggy!).
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Arrange a layer of dipped ladyfingers in a rectangular dish (9x9 inch or similar). or in a glass as you like.
- Spread half of the mascarpone cream evenly over the layer.
- Repeat with another layer of coffee-dipped ladyfingers.
- Spread the remaining mascarpone cream on top, smoothing it out.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.
Final Touches
- Before serving, dust the top generously with cocoa powder using a fine sieve.
- Sprinkle optional dark chocolate shavings for extra decadence.
- Slice and serve chilled.
✅ Crispier or Softer Ladyfingers? If you like a firmer tiramisu, let the ladyfingers dry out overnight before using. For a softer texture, use them fresh.
✅ For an Alcohol-Free Version: Just skip the coffee liqueur. The espresso alone is enough for deep flavor.
✅ Eggless Option: Replace egg yolks in the mascarpone cream with an extra 50g (¼ cup) of whipped cream.
✅ Make-Ahead Magic: Tiramisu tastes even better the next day! It can be made up to 2 days in advance.
✅ Storage: Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing, as it affects the texture.
Tips for the Perfect Tiramisu
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Mascarpone, eggs, and coffee are the stars—choose high-quality ones.
- Quick Coffee Dip: Over-soaking ladyfingers will make your tiramisu too soggy.
- Chill Time is Key: The longer it sits, the better the flavors meld together.
Variations and Substitutes
If you’re looking for some creative twists or have dietary restrictions, consider these ideas:
- Alcohol-Free: Skip the coffee liqueur and replace it with vanilla extract or almond extract.
- Egg-Free: Swap the eggs with whipped heavy cream for a similar creamy texture.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free ladyfingers available in specialty stores.
- Vegan: Use coconut cream instead of mascarpone, plant-based milk for soaking, and egg replacers for the custard.
Want to explore more? Check out our FAQs for expert tips or discover fun tiramisu variations to give this classic a unique twist! 🍰✨
Fun Facts about Tiramisu
- Did you know that tiramisu became popular in the U.S. during the 1980s, thanks to Italian-American restaurants?
- It’s rumored that tiramisu was initially created as an energy booster for Venetian workers.
Pairing Suggestions
Tiramisu pairs wonderfully with a cup of cappuccino or a glass of sweet Marsala wine. For a fun twist, serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla gelato.
Frequently asked questions about tiramisu
1. Does tiramisu have alcohol? Can I make it without?
Oh, absolutely! Traditional tiramisu usually contains a splash of Marsala wine, rum, or coffee liqueur (hello, boozy desserts!). But if you're skipping the alcohol, just replace it with extra espresso or a little vanilla extract for flavor. Trust me, it’ll still be dreamy and delicious!
2. Can I use regular coffee instead of espresso?
Technically, yes! But let’s be honest—espresso is the magic ingredient that gives tiramisu its signature bold coffee kick. If you’re using regular coffee, make sure it’s strong and rich. Weak coffee = weak tiramisu, and we can’t have that!
3. How do I keep my tiramisu from turning into a soggy mess?
Ah, the ultimate tiramisu struggle! The secret? A quick dip—don't let those ladyfingers go for a swim in the coffee bath. A fast dunk is all they need. Over-soaking = tiramisu soup, and that’s not what we signed up for!
4. What can I use instead of mascarpone?
No mascarpone? No problem! You can use a mix of cream cheese and heavy cream for a similar texture. Greek yogurt works too, but let’s be real—nothing truly beats the rich, silky magic of mascarpone.
Do you have more doubts check out the FAQ section to get it all sorted and be ready to indulge in the tiramisu.
Final Thoughts
Making tiramisu at home is a labor of love, but the result is worth every step. Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or a special celebration, this authentic tiramisu recipe is sure to impress. So, roll up your sleeves, brew that espresso, and let the magic begin!
Have you tried making tiramisu? Share your experience or any creative variations in the comments below—I’d love to hear from you!
