There’s something truly magical about the first bite of a well-made Tiramisu. It’s like being whisked away to a quaint café in the heart of Italy, where time slows down just to savor that moment. Tiramisu, meaning ‘pick me up’ or ‘cheer me up’, lives up to its name with its luxurious layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, rich mascarpone cream, and a delicate dusting of cocoa powder. Perfect for dessert lovers and coffee aficionados alike, this classic Tiramisu recipe is surprisingly simple to make but sure to impress at any gathering.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself, this recipe will become a cherished favorite. As a self-proclaimed dessert enthusiast, Tiramisu holds a special place in my heart – it’s the dessert that sparked my love for baking and has been a crowd-pleaser at numerous family gatherings. Let me guide you through the delightful journey of creating your own Tiramisu masterpiece.
- 6 large egg yolks
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1 1/2 cups strong brewed coffee, cooled
- 2 tablespoons coffee-flavored liqueur (optional)
- 24 to 30 ladyfingers
- Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
- Dark chocolate shavings, for garnish (optional)
In a shallow dish, mix together the 1 1/2 cups of cooled, strong brewed coffee with 2 tablespoons of coffee-flavored liqueur (if using). Set aside for the ladyfingers to be dipped.
In a large bowl, vigorously whisk together the 6 egg yolks and 3/4 cup granulated sugar until the mixture is pale, thick, and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating a smooth, creamy consistency.
Gently fold in 1 cup of mascarpone cheese into the egg mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix. The goal is to achieve a light, airy texture for the cream layer.
Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture, making sure not to soak them too long. Arrange a layer of dipped ladyfingers at the bottom of your serving dish. Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers. Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and the remaining mascarpone mixture. Smooth the top with a spatula.
Cover and chill the Tiramisu in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results. Before serving, dust the top generously with unsweetened cocoa powder and garnish with dark chocolate shavings if desired.
Final words
There you have it, a classic Tiramisu that promises to transport you straight to Italy from the first bite. The combination of creamy mascarpone, bold coffee, and the subtle kick of liqueur (if added), all brought together by the soft texture of the ladyfingers, makes for an unforgettable dessert. I hope you enjoy making and savouring this delightful dessert as much as I do. Thank you for following along! For more delicious recipes and tips, make sure to explore our website. Buon appetito and happy cooking!
Tags
Tiramisu recipe, classic tiramisu, Italian dessert, coffee dessert
