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Italian Tiramisu Recipe

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Italian Tiramisu is a classic no-bake dessert that layers espresso-soaked ladyfingers with creamy mascarpone filling and a dusting of cocoa. With its light texture and bold coffee flavor, it’s an elegant yet simple treat perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup espresso or strong brewed coffee, cooled
  • 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur or dark rum (optional)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or use 4 egg yolks for zabaglione)
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 8 oz mascarpone cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
  • 2430 ladyfinger biscuits (savoiardi)
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • Dark chocolate shavings (optional)

Instructions

  1. Brew espresso and let it cool completely. Stir in liqueur if using and set aside.
  2. In a bowl, whisk mascarpone and sugar until smooth. In another bowl, whip heavy cream to soft peaks (or prepare zabaglione if using eggs).
  3. Fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until combined and fluffy. Add vanilla extract if desired.
  4. Quickly dip ladyfingers into the coffee mixture for 1–2 seconds per side and lay them in a single layer in a rectangular dish.
  5. Spread half of the mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers and smooth the top.
  6. Repeat with a second layer of dipped ladyfingers and the remaining mascarpone mixture.
  7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.
  8. Before serving, dust generously with cocoa powder and top with dark chocolate shavings if desired.

Notes

  • Substitute cream cheese if mascarpone is unavailable.
  • Adjust liqueur for stronger or alcohol-free versions.
  • Add shaved chocolate or berries between layers for a twist.
  • Use decaf coffee or chocolate milk for a kid-friendly version.
  • Store in fridge up to 4 days; best enjoyed on day two.
  • Do not freeze as mascarpone may become grainy.

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