If there’s a dessert that always stops the show at any gathering, it’s the Classic Italian Tiramisu Recipe. This irresistible no-bake treat layers espresso-soaked ladyfingers with a cloud of mascarpone cream, all finished with a snowy crown of cocoa powder. It’s a symphony of textures—soft, creamy, and lightly spiked with coffee liqueur for a grown-up twist. Whether you’re looking to impress friends, celebrate a family milestone, or just indulge your sweet tooth, this one delivers pure Italian comfort with every decadent bite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Classic Italian Tiramisu Recipe lies in its simple, quality ingredients—each one works its magic on the final result. From rich mascarpone to robust espresso, these pantry staples come together to create something truly spectacular.
- Egg Yolks: The backbone of that velvety, rich custard—use large, fresh eggs for the best texture.
- Granulated Sugar: Just enough to sweeten the filling without overwhelming those deep coffee notes.
- Heavy Cream: Whipped until stiff, it adds serious lightness and a dreamy smooth finish.
- Mascarpone Cheese: Softened to room temperature, this Italian cheese is key for a creamy, luxurious texture—don’t substitute with cream cheese!
- Strong Brewed Espresso: Bold and dark, this soaks into the ladyfingers for that signature flavor.
- Coffee Liqueur (Optional): Adds a whisper of warmth and complexity—perfect for adult dessert lovers.
- Ladyfinger Cookies: The classic base; be sure to grab the crisp, Italian-style kind for proper texture.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: For dusting, it finishes the tiramisu with elegance and just the right bittersweet edge.
- Dark Chocolate Shavings (Optional): A little shower of chocolate on top takes every slice over the top!
How to Make Classic Italian Tiramisu Recipe
Step 1: Whisk Egg Yolks & Sugar
Start by placing the egg yolks and sugar into a heatproof bowl, then set it over a pot of simmering water (make sure the bowl doesn’t touch the water). Constantly whisk until the mixture turns pale and thick—about five glorious minutes of patience. This step ensures your custard base is rich and creamy, and gives that signature texture to your Classic Italian Tiramisu Recipe.
Step 2: Cool the Custard Base
Remove the egg yolk mixture from the heat and give it a little time to cool off. You want it just slightly warm—not hot—to avoid melting the mascarpone in the next step. A few minutes on the counter, and you’re good to go!
Step 3: Whip the Cream
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until it holds stiff peaks. This aerates the cream, making the tiramisu light and pillowy instead of dense. Fold it into the journey soon!
Step 4: Blend Mascarpone & Create the Cream
Gently fold softened mascarpone cheese into the cooled egg yolk mixture. It will blend seamlessly, creating that luscious foundation. Then, fold in the freshly whipped cream in several batches, using a gentle hand to keep everything airy and cloud-like.
Step 5: Prepare the Espresso & Ladyfingers
Combine cooled espresso and coffee liqueur (if using) in a shallow dish. Quickly dip each ladyfinger into this liquid—just a brief moment on each side. Soggy ladyfingers can spoil the texture, so think of it as a “coffee kiss, not a bath!” Lay these along the bottom of your serving dish, forming a single, tight-fitting layer.
Step 6: Assemble the Layers
Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the espresso-soaked ladyfingers. Smooth it with a spatula, then repeat the dipping process with a second layer of ladyfingers and the rest of the mascarpone cream. The Classic Italian Tiramisu Recipe is famously all about these gorgeous, defined layers.
Step 7: Chill
Cover the assembled tiramisu and let it chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours—or, even better, overnight. This gives the flavors time to meld, and the texture to set into its dreamy, sliceable perfection.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Just before serving, dust generously with unsweetened cocoa powder and, for a little drama, add chocolate shavings on top! Every bite gets a taste of that bittersweet, indulgent finish.
How to Serve Classic Italian Tiramisu Recipe
Garnishes
When it comes to the finishing touch, classic never fails: a generous dusting of unsweetened cocoa powder instantly transforms the dessert into something elegant. For special occasions, shower on some dark chocolate shavings or even a few chocolate-covered espresso beans for that authentic Italian cafe feel!
Side Dishes
Since tiramisu is rich and creamy, pair it with something light and refreshing. A handful of fresh berries (like raspberries or strawberries) adds color and a tart contrast, while a crisp glass of Prosecco or a shot of hot espresso keeps the Italian theme going strong.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual portions in clear glasses or mason jars for a modern, portable twist. Or, try making mini tiramisus in espresso cups—always a hit at dinner parties! You can even get creative with the layers, adding a swirl of Nutella or a hint of orange zest for a delicious change-up.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cover any leftover Classic Italian Tiramisu Recipe tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the fridge for up to four days, growing even more delicious as the flavors develop.
Freezing
While tiramisu is at its best fresh, you can freeze it—just wrap portions well in plastic and foil. To serve, thaw in the fridge overnight. The texture may be a bit softer, but the flavors remain lovely and satisfying.
Reheating
Good news: there’s no need to reheat tiramisu! Enjoy it straight from the fridge—chilled, creamy, and utterly indulgent, just as it’s meant to be.
FAQs
Can I use instant coffee instead of espresso for the Classic Italian Tiramisu Recipe?
Absolutely, if you don’t have an espresso machine, make a double-strength instant coffee for dipping the ladyfingers. The depth of flavor won’t be quite as bold, but it’ll still taste fantastic.
Is it safe to eat raw eggs in tiramisu?
This Classic Italian Tiramisu Recipe uses a double boiler method to gently heat the egg yolks and sugar, making it safer to eat than raw eggs (though always use fresh eggs and exercise caution if serving vulnerable guests).
Can I make tiramisu without alcohol?
Definitely! Just skip the coffee liqueur and up the espresso slightly. The dessert is every bit as delicious and suitable for all ages.
Why did my tiramisu turn out soggy?
Soggy tiramisu usually happens if you soak the ladyfingers for too long. Give them a quick dip—just enough to absorb the espresso without becoming mushy.
What’s the best way to cut and serve tiramisu?
For clean slices, use a sharp knife wiped clean between each cut. Chilling the Classic Italian Tiramisu Recipe overnight also firms it up for perfect, café-worthy rectangles.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never tried making your own Classic Italian Tiramisu Recipe, now’s your chance to bring a true Italian classic to your table! There’s something magical about those creamy, coffee-kissed layers, and I promise—once you make it from scratch, you’ll return to this recipe again and again. Gather your ingredients, brew that espresso, and let the indulgence begin!
Print
Classic Italian Tiramisu Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the classic flavors of this authentic Italian Tiramisu recipe, featuring layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone, topped with a dusting of cocoa powder and chocolate shavings.
Ingredients
Egg Yolk Mixture:
- 6 large egg yolks
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
Cream Mixture:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 16 ounces mascarpone cheese, softened
Assembly:
- 2 cups strong brewed espresso, cooled
- 1/4 cup coffee liqueur (optional)
- 2 packages (7 oz each) ladyfinger cookies
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting
- Dark chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Egg Yolk Mixture: In a heatproof bowl over simmering water, whisk egg yolks and sugar until pale and creamy. Remove from heat and cool.
- Cream Mixture: Whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. In a mixing bowl, fold mascarpone into yolk mixture, then fold in whipped cream.
- Assembly: Dip ladyfingers in espresso mixture, layer in dish. Spread mascarpone mix over, repeat layers. Chill for 4 hours. Dust with cocoa and chocolate shavings before serving.
Notes
- Tiramisu is best made a day ahead for optimal flavor.
- Omit coffee liqueur for a non-alcoholic version.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake, Chilling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 24 g
- Sodium: 60 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 16 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 200 mg
