The Classic Italian Tiramisu Recipe

 

The Classic Italian Tiramisu Recipe: A Timeless Dessert Everyone Loves

Few desserts are as beloved — or as indulgent — as Tiramisu. With its delicate layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, velvety mascarpone cream, and a dusting of cocoa, this classic Italian dessert is the perfect balance of light and luxurious. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just craving something sweet and elegant, homemade tiramisu never disappoints.

Here’s how to make the traditional version — no shortcuts, just authentic flavor.

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🌟 Why Tiramisu Is a Dessert Worth Mastering

• No baking required: It’s a no-bake dessert that comes together easily with a little chilling time.

• Crowd-pleaser: Everyone loves the creamy, coffee-infused flavor.

• Make-ahead friendly: Actually tastes even better the next day!

• Elegant but comforting: It’s rich and refined, yet familiar and satisfying.

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🇮🇹 Traditional Tiramisu Ingredients

To make a true classic tiramisu, you’ll need:

• 6 egg yolks

• ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar

• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream

• 1 lb (450g) mascarpone cheese (room temperature)

• 2 cups (480ml) strong brewed espresso or coffee, cooled

• 2–3 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional) – like Kahlúa or Marsala wine

• 1 pack of ladyfinger biscuits (savoiardi)

• Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting

• Optional: dark chocolate shavings for garnish

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👩‍🍳 How to Make Classic Italian Tiramisu

Step 1: Whip the Egg Yolks and Sugar

In a heatproof bowl over a double boiler (or using a mixer), whisk the egg yolks and sugar together until the mixture becomes thick, pale, and slightly warm. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Mascarpone Cream

In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold in the mascarpone cheese until smooth. Then fold in the cooled egg yolk mixture until fully combined and silky.

Step 3: Prepare the Coffee Dip

In a shallow dish, combine the cooled espresso with coffee liqueur (if using). Dip each ladyfinger briefly into the coffee — just 1–2 seconds per side. You want them moist, not soggy.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

• In a 9x13-inch dish (or individual cups), lay a single layer of coffee-dipped ladyfingers.

• Spread half of the mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers.

• Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers, followed by the rest of the cream.

• Smooth the top with a spatula.

Step 5: Chill and Set

Cover and refrigerate for at least 4–6 hours, or overnight for best results. This allows the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up beautifully.

Step 6: Dust and Serve

Right before serving, dust the top with unsweetened cocoa powder and optionally garnish with dark chocolate shavings.

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💡 Tips for the Perfect Tiramisu

• Use authentic ingredients like real mascarpone and Italian savoiardi biscuits for the best flavor and texture.

• Don’t over-soak the ladyfingers — they fall apart if they absorb too much liquid.

• Let it rest overnight if possible. The flavors deepen and the texture becomes perfectly creamy.

• Serve chilled, straight from the fridge.

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Final Thoughts

Classic Italian Tiramisu is more than just dessert — it’s an experience. The contrast of bitter espresso, sweet cream, and delicate biscuits is pure harmony in every bite. Whether it’s your first time making it or your hundredth, tiramisu always delivers that "wow" moment.

Once you’ve mastered this recipe, you’ll have a go-to dessert for every special occasion — or just a Tuesday night when only something extraordinary will do.