Authentic Italian Tiramisu Recipe: A Creamy, Decadent Delight
Tiramisu is a classic Italian dessert loved for its layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, rich mascarpone filling, and a dusting of cocoa powder. This dessert is the perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and coffee flavors, making it a popular choice for special occasions or a comforting after-dinner treat. With just a few simple ingredients, you can make this indulgent dessert that’s bound to impress everyone at the table.
Ingredients
For the Coffee Soak:
- 2 cups strong brewed coffee, cooled
- ½ cup coffee liqueur (Kahlúa or Tia Maria)
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
For the Mascarpone Filling:
- 6 large egg yolks
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 2 cups mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For Assembly:
- 40-50 ladyfingers (savoiardi)
- Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
- Dark chocolate shavings (optional)
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Coffee Soak
In a medium bowl, combine brewed coffee, coffee liqueur, and granulated sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and set aside to cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Mascarpone Filling
In a large heatproof bowl, whisk egg yolks and sugar until smooth. Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method) and whisk continuously for about 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens and becomes pale. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
Beat mascarpone cheese and vanilla extract until smooth, then gently fold in the cooled egg yolk mixture, followed by the whipped cream. Mix until fully combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Tiramisu
Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee soak for 2-3 seconds—just enough to soak them without falling apart.
Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, then spread half of the mascarpone filling over the ladyfingers. Repeat with another layer of soaked ladyfingers and the remaining mascarpone filling.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Serve
Before serving, dust the top of the tiramisu generously with unsweetened cocoa powder. Optionally, garnish with dark chocolate shavings. Slice into squares and serve chilled.
Pro Tips for a Perfect Tiramisu
- Use Strong Coffee: The flavor of the coffee soak is crucial, so make sure the coffee is bold and flavorful.
- Don’t Over-Soak the Ladyfingers: Dipping them for too long will make the dessert too soggy. A quick dip is all you need.
- Refrigerate Overnight: For the best flavor, let the tiramisu sit in the fridge overnight so the flavors have time to develop.
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