Description
Classic Tiramisu with Espresso is a rich and creamy no-bake Italian dessert that layers espresso-soaked ladyfinger cookies with a smooth mascarpone and whipped cream filling, dusted with cocoa powder and optionally topped with chocolate shavings. Perfectly balanced with a hint of coffee liqueur, this indulgent treat is elegant yet easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
Mascarpone Mixture
- 6 large egg yolks
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream (cold)
- 1 1/2 cups mascarpone cheese (room temperature)
Coffee Soak
- 2 cups brewed espresso or strong coffee (cooled)
- 3 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)
Assembly
- 1 package (7 ounces) ladyfinger cookies (savoiardi)
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)
- Dark chocolate shavings (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the egg yolk mixture: In a heatproof bowl, whisk the egg yolks and granulated sugar together. Place the bowl over a saucepan of simmering water (double boiler) and whisk constantly for 8–10 minutes until the mixture thickens and becomes pale. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Whip the cream and combine: In a separate chilled bowl, beat the cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the mascarpone cheese into the cooled egg yolk mixture until smooth, then carefully fold in the whipped cream until fully combined, creating a light and creamy mascarpone filling.
- Prepare coffee soak: In a shallow dish, mix the cooled espresso with coffee liqueur if using. Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture for 1–2 seconds without soaking them completely to prevent sogginess.
- Assemble the tiramisu: Arrange a layer of dipped ladyfingers in the bottom of a 9×9-inch dish. Spread half of the mascarpone mixture evenly over the ladyfingers. Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and the remaining mascarpone mixture. Smooth the top with a spatula for an even finish.
- Chill and serve: Cover the assembled tiramisu and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or preferably overnight to allow flavors to meld and the dessert to set. Before serving, dust generously with unsweetened cocoa powder and garnish with dark chocolate shavings if desired.
Notes
- Use freshly brewed espresso for the best and richest coffee flavor.
- For a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the coffee liqueur without compromising taste.
- Tiramisu can be made up to two days in advance, making it perfect for entertaining.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 190mg
