Tiramisu is a classic Italian dessert known for its creamy layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and rich mascarpone cheese. This elegant dessert is surprisingly easy to make at home and is sure to impress your friends and family. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make classic tiramisu step-by-step, so you can enjoy this decadent treat whenever you like. Let’s get started!
Ingredients for Classic Tiramisu
For the Coffee Soaking Liquid:
- 1 cup brewed espresso, cooled
- 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (such as Kahlua), optional
- 2 tablespoons rum, optional
For the Mascarpone Filling:
- 1 1/2 cups mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy cream, chilled
For the Assembly:
- 1 package (200 grams) ladyfinger cookies (savoiardi)
- Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
How to Make Classic Tiramisu
Step 1: Prepare the Coffee Soaking Liquid
- In a shallow dish, combine the cooled espresso, coffee liqueur (if using), and rum (if using). Mix well and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Mascarpone Filling
- In a large bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully incorporated. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 3: Assemble the Tiramisu
- Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee soaking liquid, ensuring they are soaked but not soggy.
- Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of a 9×13 inch dish, breaking them if necessary to fit.
- Spread half of the mascarpone filling over the layer of ladyfingers, smoothing it out with a spatula.
- Repeat with another layer of soaked ladyfingers and the remaining mascarpone filling.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Serve the Tiramisu
- Before serving, dust the top of the tiramisu with unsweetened cocoa powder.
- Slice and serve the tiramisu chilled, and enjoy!
About the Main Ingredients
Espresso
Espresso is a concentrated form of coffee that adds a rich and robust flavor to tiramisu. Its strong flavor is essential for soaking the ladyfingers and infusing the dessert with coffee goodness.
Coffee Liqueur and Rum
Coffee liqueur and rum are optional but add depth and complexity to the coffee soaking liquid. They enhance the flavor of the dessert and add a subtle kick.
Mascarpone Cheese
Mascarpone cheese is a creamy and slightly sweet Italian cheese that is the star ingredient in tiramisu. Its rich and velvety texture creates a luscious filling that pairs perfectly with the coffee-soaked ladyfingers.
Ladyfinger Cookies (Savoiardi)
Ladyfingers are light and sponge-like cookies that are perfect for soaking up the coffee liquid. They soften as they absorb the liquid, creating the signature texture of tiramisu.
Cocoa Powder
Cocoa powder is used to dust the top of the tiramisu, adding a touch of bitterness that balances the sweetness of the dessert. It also adds a decorative finish to the dish.
