Here’s a truly Classic Italian Tiramisu recipe — creamy, rich, and full of authentic flavor. This no-bake dessert is all about silky mascarpone, espresso-soaked ladyfingers, and a dusting of cocoa. Straight from Italy with love!
🍰 Classic Italian Tiramisu
🕒 Prep Time: 30 min
🕒 Chill Time: At least 4 hours (overnight best)
🍽️ Serves: 6–8
🧂 Ingredients:
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6 large egg yolks
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3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
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16 oz (450g) mascarpone cheese, cold
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1 1/2 cups (360 ml) strong espresso or coffee, cooled to room temperature
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2 tbsp dark rum or Marsala wine (optional but traditional)
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1 1/2 cups (360 ml) heavy cream, cold
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7 oz (200g) Savoiardi (ladyfinger cookies)
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Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
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Dark chocolate shavings (optional)
🔪 Instructions:
1. Make the Cream Base:
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In a heatproof bowl, whisk together egg yolks and sugar.
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Place over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method) and whisk constantly for 8–10 minutes until the mixture is pale, thick, and reaches about 160°F (safe temp for eggs).
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Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
2. Add Mascarpone:
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Once the egg mixture has cooled to room temperature, gently fold in the mascarpone until smooth.
3. Whip the Cream:
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In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream to medium-stiff peaks.
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Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully combined and fluffy.
4. Soak the Ladyfingers:
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Mix espresso with rum or Marsala (if using) in a shallow dish.
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Briefly dip each ladyfinger (1–2 seconds per side — don’t soak too long!) and lay them in a single layer in a 9×13-inch dish or trifle bowl.
5. Layer the Tiramisu:
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Spread half of the mascarpone cream over the first layer of soaked ladyfingers.
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Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers, then the remaining cream.
6. Chill:
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Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to let the flavors develop and the texture set.
7. Finish & Serve:
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Just before serving, dust generously with cocoa powder and optionally garnish with dark chocolate shavings.
✅ Tips for Success:
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Use real mascarpone — it’s essential for authentic texture and flavor.
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Don’t over-soak the ladyfingers, or the tiramisu will turn mushy.
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For alcohol-free: Just skip the rum/Marsala — it’s still delicious.