Traditional Italian Tiramisu

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Tiramisu is one of those desserts that instantly transports you to the heart of Italy. With its luscious layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, velvety mascarpone cream, and a dusting of cocoa powder, it’s the perfect harmony of rich, creamy, and bold flavors. This timeless dessert brings comfort and elegance to any table, making it a beloved favorite across generations.

Whether you’re making it for a dinner party or just to treat yourself midweek, tiramisu is surprisingly simple to make and absolutely worth the wait. The beauty of this classic lies in its no-bake nature, delicate balance of flavors, and that irresistible coffee aroma that fills the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Tiramisu

This tiramisu is a no-bake masterpiece that’s effortlessly elegant. It delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort and basic ingredients. Each bite is a perfect blend of creamy mascarpone, light sponge, and rich espresso. Plus, it gets even better after a night in the fridge!

What Kind of Espresso Should I Use?

While any strong brewed coffee can work in a pinch, authentic tiramisu truly shines with high-quality espresso. A dark roast or Italian blend offers the best flavor. Make sure it’s cooled before soaking the ladyfingers to avoid them falling apart.

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Ingredients for the Traditional Italian Tiramisu

Ladyfingers (Savoiardi)
Essential for building the sponge layers. These Italian biscuits soak up espresso quickly while keeping structure.

Espresso
Provides the bold coffee flavor that defines tiramisu. Use freshly brewed and cooled espresso.

Mascarpone Cheese
A soft Italian cheese that gives the cream layer its signature richness and smooth texture.

Egg Yolks
Used in the custard base for a rich, creamy filling.

Granulated Sugar
Sweetens the mascarpone mixture just enough without overpowering the espresso.

Heavy Whipping Cream
Adds airiness and volume to the mascarpone filling.

Cocoa Powder
Sprinkled on top for that finishing bitter-sweet touch.

Dark Chocolate Shavings (optional)
For extra decadence and a fancy presentation.

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How To Make the Traditional Italian Tiramisu

Step 1: Prepare the Espresso

Brew about 1 1/4 cups of strong espresso and let it cool completely. Set aside in a shallow bowl for dipping the ladyfingers.

Step 2: Make the Mascarpone Filling

In a mixing bowl, whisk 4 egg yolks with 1/2 cup granulated sugar over a double boiler until thick and pale (about 8 minutes). Let cool slightly, then fold in 1 cup of mascarpone cheese until smooth.

Step 3: Whip the Cream

In a separate chilled bowl, whip 3/4 cup of heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture in batches to keep it light and airy.

Step 4: Dip and Layer the Ladyfingers

Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the cooled espresso—just a second or two per side. Line the bottom of an 8×8-inch dish with a layer of dipped ladyfingers.

Step 5: Layer the Cream

Spread half of the mascarpone mixture evenly over the first layer of ladyfingers. Repeat the dipping and layering process for a second layer of ladyfingers and top with the remaining mascarpone cream.

Step 6: Chill and Finish

Cover and refrigerate the tiramisu for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight. Before serving, dust generously with unsweetened cocoa powder and garnish with dark chocolate shavings if desired.

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How to Serve Traditional Italian Tiramisu

This recipe yields 9 rich and satisfying squares, making it ideal for 6 to 9 servings depending on portion size. Serve chilled straight from the fridge with a sprinkle of fresh cocoa powder and a side of espresso or dessert wine.

How to Store Traditional Italian Tiramisu

Tiramisu keeps beautifully! Store it tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It actually tastes better after a full day of resting. For longer storage, freeze individual slices in airtight containers for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make tiramisu without eggs?
Yes! You can substitute the egg custard with sweetened whipped cream and mascarpone for an eggless version.

Is tiramisu safe for kids?
Tiramisu contains coffee and raw eggs, so it may not be suitable for young children. Use decaf and pasteurized eggs if making a kid-friendly version.

What’s the best alcohol to add to tiramisu?
Marsala wine is traditional, but dark rum or coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa) works beautifully. Add 1-2 tablespoons to the espresso.

Can I make tiramisu ahead of time?
Absolutely. In fact, it’s best made a day in advance to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to set.

Why is my tiramisu runny?
This usually happens when the mascarpone or whipped cream is overmixed or if the ladyfingers are soaked too long. Be gentle when folding, and dip quickly!

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Want More Dessert Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this Italian classic, try these other Life With Livia favorites:

• Cream Cheese Cranberry Loaf – A tart and creamy holiday treat.
• Cheesecake Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies – Gooey and indulgent.
• Chocolate Covered Strawberry Drip Cake – Show-stopping and romantic.
• Apple Crisp Cheesecake – Two classic desserts in one.
• No-Bake Pecan Pie Balls – A quick fix for pecan pie lovers.

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