Name: Tiramisu Recipe: Creamy and Indulgent
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 270 min
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups espresso (cooled); 1/4 cup coffee liqueur; 6 egg yolks; 3/4 cup sugar; 1 1/2 cups mascarpone; 1 1/2 cups heavy cream; 40-50 ladyfingers; 1/4 cup cocoa powder; Optional: Chocolate shavings; Suggested Pairings: Berries (coffee)

Introduction

Table of Contents

Tiramisu is a classic Italian dessert, perfect for dinner parties, holidays, or indulgent treats. Its creamy layers of mascarpone, soaked espresso ladyfingers, and cocoa dusting deliver a rich, balanced flavor of coffee and sweetness. Served in a white ceramic dish, garnished with chocolate shavings, this tiramisu creates an elegant, inviting aesthetic. This recipe delivers a classic Tiramisu, adaptable for dietary preferences, best served chilled for a luxurious, refreshing experience.

Ingredients

For the Tiramisu:

1 1/2 cups strong brewed espresso, cooled
1/4 cup coffee liqueur (e.g., Kahlúa) or dark rum
6 large egg yolks
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 1/2 cups mascarpone cheese, softened
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
40-50 ladyfingers (savoiardi, about 2 packages)
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

For Serving:

Optional: Chocolate shavings or curls
Suggested Accompaniments: Fresh berries, espresso
Suggested Pairings: Coffee, dessert wine
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve in a white ceramic dish
Suggested Equipment: 9×9-inch dish, electric mixer, sifter

Step-by-Step Process

Prepare Coffee Mixture: In a shallow bowl, combine cooled espresso and coffee liqueur. Set aside.
Make Zabaglione: In a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler), whisk egg yolks and sugar until pale and thickened, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and cool slightly.
Add Mascarpone: Whisk mascarpone into the cooled egg mixture until smooth. Set aside.
Whipped Cream: In a separate bowl, use an electric mixer to whip heavy cream to stiff peaks. Gently fold whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until combined.
Assemble: Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture (1-2 seconds per side, don’t soak). Arrange a single layer in a 9×9-inch dish. Spread half the mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers. Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and the remaining cream.
Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to set.
Serve: Before serving, sift cocoa powder over the top. Garnish with chocolate shavings. Slice or scoop from a white ceramic dish and serve chilled with berries and coffee.

Tips for Better Tiramisu

Use strong espresso for a bold flavor; instant espresso works in a pinch.
Don’t oversoak ladyfingers; they should be moist but not soggy.
Ensure mascarpone is softened to avoid lumps.
Whip cream to stiff peaks for a light, airy texture.
Chill thoroughly to set layers for clean slicing.
Sift cocoa just before serving to prevent absorption.
Use savoiardi ladyfingers; softer ones may disintegrate.
Enhance aesthetic: Dust cocoa evenly, scatter shavings sparingly, and serve in a white ceramic dish for elegance.

Variations and Customization

Non-Alcoholic Tiramisu: Omit liqueur and use extra espresso or grape juice.
Gluten-Free Tiramisu: Use gluten-free ladyfingers.
Chocolate Tiramisu: Add 1/4 cup melted dark chocolate to the mascarpone mixture.
Berry Tiramisu: Layer with 1 cup fresh raspberries or strawberries.
Vegan Tiramisu: Use vegan mascarpone, coconut whipped cream, and egg-free ladyfingers.
Low-Sugar Tiramisu: Reduce sugar to 1/2 cup, and use a sugar substitute in the cream.
Mocha Tiramisu: Add 2 tbsp cocoa powder to the coffee mixture.
Mini Tiramisu: Layer in individual glasses for single servings.

Storage and Serving Tips

Store covered in the fridge for 3 days; flavors deepen over time.
Do not freeze; the texture becomes grainy.
Serve chilled for the best texture; a room temperature dessert softens cream.
Use leftovers as a parfait with fruit or granola.
Don’t leave at room temperature for over 2 hours.
Pair with light accompaniments like berries to balance richness.
Presented in a white ceramic dish with cocoa and shavings for elegant charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 8 servings (1/8 of the dish):

Calories: 480 kcal
Total Fat: 34g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 230mg
Sodium: 100mg
Total Carbohydrates: 36g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 18g
Protein: 8g
Vitamin A: 25% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 0% Daily Value
Calcium: 10% Daily Value
Iron: 8% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by brand. These are high in fat and sugar; try low-sugar or vegan versions. Pair with fruit for balance.

Conclusion

This Tiramisu recipe offers a creamy, indulgent dessert, perfect for any occasion, turning simple ingredients into a classic. Its easy preparation and elegant presentation make it a favorite. The rich layers and coffee-soaked ladyfingers, with delicate garnishes, delight every time. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its luxurious appeal.