Authentic Italian Tiramisu

This authentic Italian tiramisu is a classic no bake dessert made with layers of coffee soaked ladyfingers and a rich mascarpone cream. The texture is light yet creamy, with a deep coffee flavor balanced by gentle sweetness and cocoa bitterness. It is an easy to moderate recipe that requires care rather than skill, making it ideal for home bakers. Total time is about 30 minutes of preparation plus chilling time.

Ingredients

For the Coffee Soak

• 300 ml strong espresso or very strong coffee, cooled
• 2 tbsp coffee liqueur (optional)

For the Mascarpone Filling

• 4 large egg yolks
• 100 g caster sugar
• 500 g mascarpone cheese, at room temperature
• 300 ml double cream

For Assembling and Topping

• 200 g savoiardi ladyfinger biscuits
• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
• Dark chocolate shavings (optional)

How to Make Authentic Italian Tiramisu

Prepare the Coffee

Brew the coffee and allow it to cool completely. Stir in the coffee liqueur if using. Set aside while you prepare the filling.

Make the Mascarpone Cream

Place the egg yolks and caster sugar in a heatproof bowl. Set the bowl over a pan of gently simmering water, making sure the base does not touch the water. Whisk continuously for about 5 minutes until pale, thick, and slightly warm.

Remove from the heat and leave to cool for a few minutes. Add the mascarpone cheese and whisk gently until smooth and fully combined.

In a separate bowl, whip the double cream to soft peaks. Fold it into the mascarpone mixture in two additions, using a light hand to keep the cream airy.

Assemble the Tiramisu

Dip each ladyfinger briefly into the cooled coffee. Do not soak them or they will collapse. Arrange a single layer in the base of a serving dish.

Spread half of the mascarpone cream evenly over the biscuits. Add another layer of coffee dipped ladyfingers, followed by the remaining cream. Smooth the top with a palette knife.

Chill and Finish

Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best flavor and texture. Just before serving, dust generously with cocoa powder and add chocolate shavings if you like.

Tips for the Best Tiramisu

Why is my tiramisu runny?

This usually happens if the cream was under whipped or the biscuits were soaked too long. Whip the cream to soft peaks and dip the biscuits quickly.

Can I use cream instead of mascarpone?

Mascarpone gives tiramisu its authentic flavor and texture. Cream cheese can be used in a pinch but the taste will be tangier and less traditional.

How do I get clean slices?

Chill the tiramisu overnight and use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts.

Should I cook the eggs?

Gently heating the egg yolks with sugar over simmering water makes them safe while keeping the classic texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve chilled straight from the fridge
• Pair with espresso or strong coffee
• Add fresh berries on the side for contrast

Storage

Room Temperature

Tiramisu should not be kept at room temperature for more than 1 hour.

Refrigerator

Store covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavor improves after the first day.

Freezing

Tiramisu can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Nutrition

• Calories: 420 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 32 g
• Protein: 7 g
• Fat: 29 g
• Saturated fat: 17 g
• Sodium: 95 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredients used.

FAQs

Is tiramisu an authentic Italian dessert?

Yes, tiramisu originated in Italy and is traditionally made with mascarpone, coffee, eggs, sugar, and ladyfingers.

Can I make tiramisu without alcohol?

Yes, simply leave out the coffee liqueur. The dessert will still have a rich coffee flavor.

How long should tiramisu chill before serving?

A minimum of 4 hours is required, but overnight chilling gives the best results.

Can I make tiramisu ahead of time?

Yes, tiramisu is ideal for making a day in advance. It sets well and the flavors deepen beautifully.