Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Tiramisu is a no-bake dessert that looks and tastes impressive, yet is surprisingly simple to make. The combination of bold coffee, smooth mascarpone, and soft ladyfingers creates a melt-in-your-mouth texture with sophisticated flavor. It’s easy to prepare in advance and tastes even better the next day.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Mascarpone cheese
- Egg yolks
- Granulated sugar
- Heavy cream
- Espresso or strong brewed coffee (cooled)
- Ladyfinger cookies (savoiardi)
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)
- Optional: coffee liqueur (like Kahlua) or dark rum
Directions
- In a heatproof bowl, whisk together egg yolks and sugar. Place over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method) and whisk continuously for 5–7 minutes, until thickened and pale. Remove from heat and let cool.
- In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream to stiff peaks.
- In another large bowl, gently mix the mascarpone to loosen it. Fold in the cooled egg mixture, then fold in the whipped cream until smooth and fully combined.
- In a shallow dish, mix cooled espresso with coffee liqueur if using.
- Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture (1–2 seconds per side) and line the bottom of a 9×9-inch dish or similar container.
- Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers and smooth the top.
- Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and the remaining mascarpone mixture.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.
- Just before serving, dust the top with unsweetened cocoa powder. Serve chilled.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 8 to 10 people.
Prep time: 25 minutes
Chill time: 6 hours (or overnight)
Total time: 6 hours 25 minutes
Variations
- Alcohol-free: Skip the liqueur and use vanilla extract in the coffee for flavor.
- Chocolate twist: Add shaved chocolate or chocolate chips between the layers.
- Berry version: Add a layer of fresh raspberries or strawberries between the cream layers.
- Mini tiramisu: Assemble individual portions in cups or jars for easy serving.
- Egg-free version: Omit the egg yolks and use extra whipped cream or sweetened condensed milk for richness.
Storage/Reheating
Store tiramisu covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Do not freeze, as the mascarpone and whipped cream may change texture.
Tiramisu is best served chilled and does not require reheating.
FAQs
Can I use cream cheese instead of mascarpone?
Mascarpone is traditional, but cream cheese can be used in a pinch — just note the flavor and texture will be slightly different.
Do the eggs need to be cooked?
Yes, using the double boiler method safely cooks the egg yolks while preserving the rich texture.
What kind of coffee works best?
Espresso or strong brewed coffee gives the best flavor. Decaf is fine if preferred.
How long should I dip the ladyfingers?
Just 1–2 seconds per side — any longer and they’ll become too soggy.
Can I make tiramisu in advance?
Yes, it actually tastes better when made a day ahead, allowing the flavors to meld.
What kind of dish should I use?
A 9×9-inch square dish or similar-sized casserole dish works well for layering.
Is tiramisu safe for kids?
If made without alcohol and with cooked egg yolks, yes — just be mindful of the caffeine in the coffee.
Can I make it without eggs?
Yes, replace the egg yolk mixture with more whipped cream or use a stabilized whipped cream alternative.
What’s the best way to serve tiramisu?
Use a clean, sharp knife or spoon to scoop servings, and dust with fresh cocoa powder just before serving.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes. It’s best enjoyed fresh within a few days.
Conclusion
Classic Tiramisu is a luxurious, no-bake dessert that never goes out of style. With its creamy layers, coffee-soaked cookies, and cocoa-dusted top, it’s a crowd-pleasing treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a tiramisu pro or trying it for the first time, this easy version delivers that authentic Italian flavor every time.
PrintClassic Tiramisu
Classic Tiramisu is a no-bake Italian dessert made with layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and rich mascarpone cream, dusted with cocoa powder. Elegant and indulgent, it’s perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or any special occasion.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: undefined
- Total Time: 6 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 to 10 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 6 egg yolks
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 (8 oz) container mascarpone cheese
- 1 1/2 cups brewed espresso or strong coffee (cooled)
- 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)
- 1 (7 oz) package ladyfinger cookies (savoiardi)
- 2–3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)
Instructions
- In a heatproof bowl, whisk egg yolks and sugar. Place over simmering water and whisk constantly for 5–7 minutes until thickened. Remove and cool.
- In another bowl, whip heavy cream to stiff peaks.
- Gently mix mascarpone in a large bowl to soften. Fold in the cooled egg mixture, then fold in the whipped cream.
- In a shallow dish, mix cooled espresso with liqueur (if using).
- Dip each ladyfinger quickly (1–2 seconds) into coffee and line the bottom of a 9×9-inch dish.
- Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the cookies. Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and remaining cream.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.
- Dust with cocoa powder just before serving.
Notes
- Use decaf coffee for a kid-friendly version.
- To make ahead, prepare up to 2 days in advance and keep refrigerated.
- Do not freeze, as texture may change.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: undefined
- Trans Fat: undefined
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 160mg
