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BEST Classic Italian Tiramisu

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This classic Italian tiramisu is a no-bake dessert featuring layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and velvety mascarpone cream, finished with a dusting of cocoa powder. Rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced, it’s a timeless crowd-pleaser.

  • Author: Ella
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 6 hours 30 minutes (including chill time)
  • Yield: 8–10 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 4 egg yolks
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 8 oz mascarpone cheese, room temperature
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream, cold
  • 1 1/2 cups espresso or strong brewed coffee, cooled
  • 24 ladyfinger biscuits (savoiardi)
  • 2 tbsp coffee liqueur (optional)
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting

Instructions

  1. Whisk egg yolks and sugar in a heatproof bowl over simmering water until thick and pale (5–6 minutes). Let cool slightly.
  2. Beat in mascarpone until smooth and well combined.
  3. In another bowl, whip cold heavy cream to stiff peaks and gently fold into the mascarpone mixture.
  4. Combine cooled espresso and liqueur (if using) in a shallow dish.
  5. Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the espresso, then layer them in a 9×9-inch dish.
  6. Spread half the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers. Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and the rest of the cream.
  7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.
  8. Before serving, dust the top generously with unsweetened cocoa powder.

Notes

  • Add grated dark chocolate between layers for extra richness.
  • Use decaf coffee and skip liqueur for a kid-friendly version.
  • Try cinnamon or pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist.
  • Assemble in glasses or jars for individual servings.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://elladishes.com/best-classic-italian-tiramisu/