Classic Tiramisu with Coffee

Tiramisu is that cool and creamy dessert that always seems to make any gathering feel more special. This version skips raw eggs and keeps things simple and mess free yet still tastes utterly decadent. When you want a make ahead treat that is sure to impress friends and family this is the recipe I reach for.

Ingredients

• Mascarpone cheese: gives classic Italian richness so look for a high quality tub at your grocery store dairy section
• Heavy whipping cream: offers lightness and a stable airy structure The colder it is the easier it whips up perfectly
• Sugar: brings the right touch of sweetness Choose fine granulated if possible
• Vanilla extract: deepens all those creamy notes Real vanilla adds warmth and more flavor
• Strong coffee or espresso: provides that signature backbone Brew it fresh and go for dark roast or decaf if you prefer
• Coffee liqueur such as Kahlua: blends into the coffee for a mellow sophisticated lift You can use alcohol free syrup if needed
• Savoiardi lady fingers: create the structure of the dessert Choose a brand with a slightly crisp texture
• Unsweetened cocoa powder: adds that signature bitterness Use Dutch process for maximum chocolate flavor
• Dark chocolate bar: is for the curls on top Look for a bittersweet bar and use a vegetable peeler to make easy chocolate shavings

Step-by-Step Instructions

Whip the Cream:

Pour the cold heavy cream sugar and half of the vanilla into the bowl of a stand mixer Set to medium high speed Attach the whisk and let it run for several minutes until soft peaks form the cream should be fluffy and hold lines when the whisk is lifted Carefully remove the whipped cream and set aside

Mix the Mascarpone:

Without cleaning the bowl add the room temperature mascarpone cheese Swap to the paddle attachment and beat until completely smooth and creamy There should be no lumps and the cheese should look glossy

Combine Cream and Mascarpone:

Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone a small spoonful at a time Use a spatula and go slowly to keep the mixture fluffy Take your time and only mix until the two are fully combined and smooth

Make the Coffee Mixture:

Pour the freshly brewed coffee or espresso into a shallow bowl Stir in the coffee liqueur and the remaining vanilla This is what brings that irresistible tiramisu flavor

Prepare the Dish:

Use a small mesh sifter to dust the bottom of your eight inch square baking dish or similar sized round pan with a light layer of cocoa powder

Dip and Layer the Ladyfingers:

Work one lady finger at a time Dunk quickly into the coffee mixture and turn to coat both sides Only hold for about three seconds so the cookies soak but do not fall apart Arrange in a single layer across the bottom of your prepared dish rounded sides facing up

Add Cream Layer and Cocoa Powder:

Spoon half of the creamy mascarpone mixture over the cookies Spread it evenly with a spatula Sprinkle a even blanket of cocoa powder over this cream layer

Repeat:

Build a second layer by dipping and arranging your remaining lady fingers Top with the rest of the mascarpone mixture Tap the dish lightly on the counter so everything levels out Use the spatula to make a smooth top

Finish with Chocolate:

Sift an extra dusting of cocoa powder over the last cream layer Use a vegetable peeler to shave the chocolate bar directly onto the tiramisu for dramatic curls and added texture

Chill:

Set your finished tiramisu uncovered in the fridge Let it chill at least three hours overnight works even better for perfect slices when serving

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Mascarpone might be my favorite ingredient in this recipe It is like a richer silkier version of cream cheese and gives tiramisu all of its signature melt in your mouth luxury I remember one birthday making tiramisu for my parent who had never tried it and those first creamy bites turned them into lifelong fans

Storage Tips

Leftovers stay fresh and delicious in the refrigerator for up to three days Just remember to cover the tiramisu loosely with plastic wrap or a tightly fitting lid to prevent it from absorbing other fridge odors For neat slicing let it sit just a few minutes out of the fridge before cutting

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find mascarpone cream cheese can be swapped though it will taste tangier For the coffee liqueur you can use a splash of rum or skip alcohol entirely and add an extra teaspoon of vanilla or some espresso syrup Gluten free ladyfingers also work so everyone can enjoy

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Serving Suggestions

Dust on extra cocoa powder or chocolate curls right before serving for that dramatic look Serve in individual glasses or ramekins for dinner party flair If you have extra whipped cream it makes a beautiful topping spooned on just before eating

Tiramisu History

Tiramisu comes from northern Italy where it began as a luxurious treat for special family meals Its name means pick me up which is just what the coffee and sweet creamy layers are meant to do When you serve tiramisu you are sharing a piece of delicious tradition

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make tiramisu without alcohol?

Yes, simply omit the Kahlua or coffee liqueur and replace it with more coffee or espresso.

→ Which coffee is best to use?

Use strong brewed coffee or espresso for the deepest flavor; decaf also works well if you prefer.

→ Can I prepare tiramisu in advance?

Yes, allowing time to chill (at least 3 hours or overnight) helps the flavors meld beautifully.

→ Are raw eggs required for this version?

No, this tiramisu uses whipped heavy cream with mascarpone, making it egg-free and still deliciously creamy.

→ How long do leftovers keep?

Covered and refrigerated, tiramisu tastes fresh for up to three days.