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Traditional Italian Tiramisu Recipe

Traditional Italian Tiramisu Recipe

5.1 from 27 reviews

Traditional Italian Tiramisu is a classic no-bake dessert made with layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers combined with a rich and creamy mascarpone mixture, and finished with a dusting of unsweetened cocoa powder. This indulgent treat is perfect for coffee lovers and makes a delightful end to any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Egg Mixture

  • 4 eggs, separated
  • 1 cup sugar (150-200g depending on preference)
  • 500 g mascarpone cheese

Assembly

  • 350 g ladyfingers (adjust according to dish size)
  • 1.5 cups brewed espresso or instant coffee
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting

Instructions

  1. Separate Eggs: Crack each egg and carefully separate the whites from the yolks, placing the whites in one bowl and yolks in another. Set the egg whites aside for later use.
  2. Whisk Egg Yolks and Sugar: Add the sugar to the bowl with the egg yolks and whisk on medium speed for 3 to 5 minutes until the mixture turns light, thick, and frothy. This ensures a smooth, sweet base for the filling.
  3. Add Mascarpone: Incorporate the mascarpone cheese into the whipped egg yolk mixture and whisk gently for 2 to 3 minutes until fully combined and creamy. Set this mixture aside.
  4. Whip Egg Whites: In a clean bowl, whisk the egg whites until stiff peaks form to add lightness and airiness to the tiramisu filling.
  5. Fold Egg Whites Into Mascarpone Mixture: Gently fold a quarter of the whipped egg whites into the mascarpone mixture to lighten it. Then gradually fold in the remaining egg whites until you have a smooth, fluffy filling. Avoid overmixing to keep the mixture airy.
  6. Dip Ladyfingers: Pour the brewed espresso or coffee into a shallow plate. Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee for 1 to 2 seconds to soak but not become soggy.
  7. Assemble Layers: Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers in your serving dish. Spoon and spread half of the mascarpone filling over the ladyfingers, smoothing the surface. Repeat the process with another layer of coffee-soaked ladyfingers followed by the remaining filling.
  8. Chill: Cover the assembled tiramisu with plastic wrap and refrigerate it overnight or for at least 6 hours. This chilling time allows the flavors to set and meld beautifully.
  9. Serve: Just before serving, dust the top generously with unsweetened cocoa powder for an elegant finish and added chocolate flavor.

Notes

  • Use fresh, high-quality eggs since this recipe uses raw egg whites and yolks.
  • If concerned about raw eggs, use pasteurized eggs or egg substitute suitable for whipping.
  • Adjust the sugar amount depending on how sweet you prefer your tiramisu.
  • Dip ladyfingers briefly to avoid them becoming too soggy which can compromise texture.
  • Espresso provides the best authentic coffee flavor, but strong brewed coffee or instant coffee works well too.
  • For a stronger coffee flavor, add a splash of coffee liqueur such as Kahlua or Marsala wine to the coffee soak.
  • This dessert can be prepared a day ahead and kept refrigerated to improve flavor integration.

Nutrition

Keywords: Tiramisu, Italian dessert, coffee dessert, no-bake dessert, mascarpone, ladyfingers, classic tiramisu recipe