Tiramisu is one of those timeless desserts that never fails to impress. With its layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone filling, and dusting of cocoa, it’s rich yet light, indulgent yet elegant.
The best part? You don’t have to be a professional baker to make it at home.
With a few simple ingredients and a little patience, you can create a tiramisu that tastes just like the one from your favorite Italian café.
How to Make Tiramisu
Tiramisu is an Italian dessert that translates to “pick me up,” and once you taste it, you’ll understand why.
It’s made by dipping delicate ladyfinger cookies into strong espresso or coffee and layering them with a creamy mixture of mascarpone cheese, eggs, and sugar.
A final dusting of cocoa powder on top gives it a beautiful finish.
The dessert is chilled for several hours so the flavors blend into a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth delight.
Ingredients
- 6 egg yolks
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups mascarpone cheese (room temperature)
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 2 cups strong brewed coffee or espresso (cooled)
- ¼ cup coffee liqueur (optional)
- 2 packs ladyfinger cookies (about 40 pieces)
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)
- Dark chocolate shavings (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Cream Mixture
Whisk egg yolks and sugar together in a heatproof bowl. Place it over simmering water (double-boiler method) and whisk for 5–7 minutes until thick and pale.
Remove from the heat and let it cool slightly. Add the mascarpone cheese and mix until smooth.
Step 2: Whip the Cream
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture. The result should be light, fluffy, and creamy.
Step 3: Prepare the Coffee Dip
Combine the cooled espresso with coffee liqueur if using. Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee—just a second or two on each side.
Be careful not to soak them too long, or they’ll fall apart.
Step 4: Layer the Dessert
Arrange a layer of dipped ladyfingers on the bottom of a rectangular dish. Spread half of the mascarpone cream mixture over the top.
Repeat with another layer of ladyfingers, then the rest of the cream. Smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 5: Chill and Finish
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.
Just before serving, dust generously with unsweetened cocoa powder. You can also add dark chocolate shavings for extra flair.
How to Serve It
Tiramisu is best served chilled, straight from the refrigerator. Cut it into neat squares with a sharp knife and use a spatula to lift out each piece.
The layers should be visible, with the creamy mascarpone contrasting against the soaked ladyfingers.
Pair it with a cup of espresso for a true Italian experience, or serve it after dinner as a light yet decadent treat. If you’re making it for a special occasion, dust the top with cocoa right before serving so it looks fresh and elegant.
Conclusion
Tiramisu is proof that simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. With just coffee, mascarpone, and ladyfingers, you can make a dessert that feels both luxurious and comforting.
The key is patience—let it chill long enough so the flavors meld perfectly.
Once you master this recipe, you’ll have a go-to dessert that never fails to impress family and friends.