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Classic Tiramisu

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Classic Italian tiramisu made with espresso-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone filling, and a dusting of cocoa powder. An elegant no-bake dessert that’s rich, smooth, and perfect for special occasions.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes (plus 4+ hours chilling)
  • Yield: 6–8 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 4 large egg yolks
  • ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar, divided
  • ¾ cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup (227 g) mascarpone cheese
  • 1¾ cups strong brewed espresso or coffee, cooled
  • 2 tablespoons dark brewed coffee or water (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • About 24 ladyfingers (≈7 oz / 200 g)
  • 12 oz bittersweet chocolate, shaved (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Whisk egg yolks and ¼ cup sugar with an electric mixer on high until thick, pale, and tripled in volume (about 4–5 minutes).
  2. In another bowl, whip heavy cream with remaining ¼ cup sugar until soft peaks form. Add mascarpone and continue whipping until smooth and medium peaks form.
  3. Fold mascarpone cream gently into egg yolk mixture until combined.
  4. In a shallow dish, combine espresso and optional coffee or water.
  5. Lightly dust the bottom of a 2-quart (or 8×8-inch) dish with 1 tablespoon cocoa powder.
  6. Dip each ladyfinger briefly into espresso mixture and arrange in a single layer in the dish.
  7. Spread half of the mascarpone cream evenly over ladyfingers.
  8. Repeat with a second layer of dipped ladyfingers and remaining mascarpone cream.
  9. Dust top with remaining cocoa powder and garnish with shaved chocolate if desired.
  10. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight) before serving.

Notes

  • Add vanilla or almond extract to espresso for extra flavor.
  • Make individual portions in small glasses for elegant serving.
  • For a chocolate twist, add a thin layer of melted chocolate or ganache between layers.
  • Add fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries for a fruity variation.
  • Stabilize cream with gelatin if transporting or needing firmer layers.

Nutrition