The Ultimate Italian Dessert
Tiramisu, which translates to "pick me up" in Italian, is the perfect combination of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and rich mascarpone cream. This no-bake dessert needs time to set, making it perfect for entertaining since you can prepare it a day ahead.
Traditional vs Modern
Authentic tiramisu traditionally uses raw eggs in the mascarpone cream. This recipe uses a safer method by making a zabaglione (egg custard), which is cooked over a double boiler to pasteurize the eggs while maintaining that light, airy texture.
Tiramisu
Classic Italian dessert with coffee-soaked ladyfingers
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1 In a large metal bowl, whisk together egg yolks and sugar until thick and pale.
- 2 Place bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler). Whisk constantly for 5-8 minutes until mixture thickens and reaches 160°F. Remove from heat.
- 3 Let egg mixture cool for 10 minutes, then whisk in mascarpone cheese until smooth and creamy.
- 4 In a separate bowl, beat heavy cream to stiff peaks. Gently fold whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture in three additions.
- 5 Combine cooled espresso and coffee liqueur (if using) in a shallow dish.
- 6 Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture (1-2 seconds per side - don't soak them) and arrange in a single layer in a 9x13 inch dish.
- 7 Spread half of the mascarpone cream over the ladyfinger layer, smoothing it evenly.
- 8 Create a second layer of coffee-dipped ladyfingers over the cream.
- 9 Spread remaining mascarpone cream over the top, smoothing it completely to the edges.
- 10 Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- 11 Before serving, dust generously with cocoa powder and sprinkle with grated chocolate.
Chef's Note
Tiramisu actually improves with time - it's even better the next day after the flavors have melded. It can be made up to 2 days in advance. For a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the coffee liqueur. Make sure your espresso is completely cooled before dipping the ladyfingers.
Servings: 8
Cuisine: Italian
Course: dessert
Nutrition (per serving): 8g protein · 28g total carbs