Classic Italian Tiramisu (Printable)

Espresso-soaked ladyfingers layered with creamy mascarpone and finished with cocoa powder

# What You'll Need:

→ Cream Layer

01 - 17.6 oz mascarpone cheese
02 - 4 large egg yolks
03 - 0.44 cup granulated sugar
04 - 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
05 - 1 cup heavy cream, cold

→ Coffee Mixture

06 - 1.27 cups strong espresso, cooled
07 - 3 tbsp coffee liqueur (Kahlúa or Marsala)

→ Assembly

08 - 7 oz ladyfingers (savoiardi)
09 - Unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting
10 - Dark chocolate shavings (optional)

# Directions:

01 - Whisk egg yolks and granulated sugar in a heatproof bowl over gently simmering water until pale and slightly thickened, approximately 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool briefly.
02 - Gently fold mascarpone cheese and vanilla extract into the cooled yolk mixture until smooth and fully incorporated.
03 - In a separate chilled bowl, whip cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Carefully fold whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until just combined.
04 - Combine cooled espresso and coffee liqueur in a shallow dish suitable for dipping ladyfingers.
05 - Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture for 1-2 seconds per side. Arrange soaked ladyfingers in a single layer in a 9 x 9 inch baking dish.
06 - Spread half of the mascarpone cream evenly over the first layer of ladyfingers using an offset spatula.
07 - Add a second layer of coffee-dipped ladyfingers. Top with remaining mascarpone cream and smooth the surface evenly.
08 - Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow flavors to meld and texture to set properly.
09 - Just before serving, dust generously with unsweetened cocoa powder using a fine-mesh sifter. Garnish with dark chocolate shavings if desired.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The espresso-soaked layers create that perfect coffee kick without being bitter
  • Homemade mascarpone cream tastes nothing like restaurant versions
  • It actually improves after a night in the fridge, making it perfect for preparing ahead
02 -
  • Over-soaked ladyfingers turn mushy, so dip and place immediately without hesitation
  • The bain-marie step might feel fussy, but it ensures the yolks are safely cooked while creating the ideal texture
03 -
  • A rectangular dish creates cleaner slices than round bowls
  • Room temperature ingredients combine more smoothly without overmixing

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