Looking for a dessert that’s effortlessly impressive?
This Tiramisu recipe is the answer. With layers of creamy mascarpone, coffee-soaked ladyfingers, and a dusting of cocoa, this no-bake treat is rich, indulgent, and simple to make.
Prep it the night before for a perfect make-ahead dessert that’s sure to wow your guests!
For Tiramisu:
- Espresso or Strong Coffee – The base flavor for soaking the ladyfingers. Use room temperature.
- Dark Rum – Optional for a little added depth of flavor. Can be replaced with vanilla extract or other liqueurs like Kahlua or Godiva.
- Mascarpone – The rich, creamy cheese that makes up the core of the dessert.
- Egg Yolks – Used to create a rich and smooth base for the mascarpone mixture.
- Granulated Sugar – To sweeten the mascarpone mixture.
- Heavy Whipping Cream – Whipped to form stiff peaks and folded into the mascarpone mixture to add lightness.
- Vanilla Extract – For flavor depth in the mascarpone mixture.
- Ladyfingers – These delicate cookies are soaked in the coffee mixture and form the layers of the dessert.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Used to dust the top of the tiramisu for that signature look and light bitterness.
Tiramisu Recipe
Notes
Ingredients:
- 1½ cups espresso or very strong coffee, room temperature
- ¾ cup dark rum, divided
- 16 oz mascarpone cheese (452g)
- 6 large egg yolks
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar (133g)
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream (480ml)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 40 ladyfingers
- ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (33g)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Coffee Mixture:
- In a medium bowl, mix together the coffee and ½ cup of dark rum. Set aside. If you prefer, you can substitute the rum with vanilla extract or a different liqueur like Kahlua, Grand Marnier, or Godiva.
- Mascarpone Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the mascarpone and the remaining ¼ cup of rum. Use a hand mixer to blend the mixture until smooth. Set aside.
- Egg Yolk Mixture:
- If you have a double boiler, combine the egg yolks and sugar in the top section. Otherwise, mix them in a heatproof bowl.
- Bring 2 inches of water to a simmer in a small pot or the bottom section of the double boiler. Place the egg yolk mixture over the simmering water, ensuring it doesn't touch the water. Whisk constantly for 5–8 minutes until the sugar dissolves and the mixture becomes pale and thick.
- Combine Egg and Mascarpone Mixtures:
- Pour the egg yolk mixture into the mascarpone and whisk together until smooth. Chill in the fridge for about 15 minutes.
- Whipped Cream:
- In a separate bowl or stand mixer, whip the cream and vanilla on medium speed until stiff peaks form, about 3–5 minutes.
- Combine Cream and Mascarpone Mixture:
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture, ensuring everything is well blended.
Assembling the Tiramisu:
- Soak the Ladyfingers:
- Dip each ladyfinger briefly into the coffee mixture (about 1–2 seconds per side). Don’t let them soak too long, as they absorb liquid quickly.
- Layer the Dessert:
- Arrange the soaked ladyfingers in a single layer at the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers, smoothing it to the edges.
- Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and the remaining mascarpone mixture.
- Final Touches:
- Dust the top layer with unsweetened cocoa powder.
- Chill:
- Cover the tiramisu and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.
Notes:
- Soak the Ladyfingers Briefly: Ladyfingers absorb liquid quickly, so dip them for just a second or two to prevent sogginess.
- Watch the Cream: Make sure to whip the cream until stiff peaks form. If over-beaten, it could turn into butter.
- Assembly Tips: If your dish doesn't fit two perfect rows of ladyfingers, break a few pieces as needed. Aim for minimal gaps between the cookies.
Nutrition
Calories: 554 kcal | Carbohydrates: 37g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 37g | Saturated Fat: 22g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 255mg | Sodium: 94mg | Potassium: 160mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 12g | Vitamin A: 1439 IU | Vitamin C: 0.3mg | Calcium: 111mg | Iron: 2mg
- Can I skip the alcohol in tiramisu?
Yes! You can easily make tiramisu without alcohol. Simply leave out the rum and add an extra splash of vanilla extract to keep that rich flavor. Or, for a twist, you can even use your favorite liqueur like Kahlua or Grand Marnier if you like.
- How do I avoid soggy ladyfingers?
To prevent soggy ladyfingers, dip each one into the coffee mixture for just 1-2 seconds. They absorb liquid super fast, so a quick dip is all you need!
- Can I make tiramisu the night before?
Definitely! In fact, making tiramisu the night before gives it time to set and allows the flavors to really meld together. You’ll have a perfectly delicious dessert ready to go when you need it!
- What can I use instead of mascarpone?
If you can’t find mascarpone, you can substitute it with cream cheese. It’ll give you a slightly different flavor but will still be creamy and tasty. Just make sure to soften it before using!
- How do I store leftover tiramisu?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. It stays fresh and the flavors continue to develop! You can even dust it with a little extra cocoa powder before serving for a fresh look.
