Classic Tiramisu: A Timeless Italian Dessert
Tiramisu, a beloved dessert originating from Italy, is a rich, indulgent treat that combines the robust flavors of espresso, mascarpone cheese, and a light dusting of cocoa powder. With its layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone filling, this dessert is sure to impress at any gathering. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving something sweet, this classic tiramisu recipe is a foolproof choice.
Ingredients
To make this delectable tiramisu, you’ll need the following ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mascarpone cheese | 750g |
| Eggs | 260g |
| Savoiardi (ladyfingers) | 250g |
| Sugar | 120g |
| Coffee | 300g |
| Unsweetened cocoa powder | To taste |
Nutritional Information
This is an approximation per serving (1/8th of the recipe):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 41g |
| Protein | 7g |
| Fat | 22g |
| Saturated Fat | 13g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 27g |
| Cholesterol | 150mg |
| Sodium | 70mg |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Coffee
Start by brewing a rich cup of coffee. Use a moka pot to prepare about 300g of strong coffee. Add a teaspoon of sugar, or sweeten it to your taste, then allow it to cool. Pour the coffee into a shallow bowl or dish, ensuring it has enough surface area for the ladyfingers to soak properly.
Step 2: Separate the Eggs
Separate the egg yolks from the egg whites. For this step, it’s crucial that the egg whites do not contain any traces of egg yolk, as this can prevent them from whipping into stiff peaks. You will need both parts of the eggs for this recipe.
Step 3: Whisk the Egg Yolks
In a large bowl, whisk the egg yolks with half of the sugar (60g). Use an electric mixer to beat the mixture until it becomes light, fluffy, and pale in color. This step should take around 3-5 minutes on medium speed.
Step 4: Incorporate the Mascarpone
With the mixer running on low, gradually add the mascarpone cheese to the egg yolk mixture. Add the mascarpone in small increments to ensure it blends smoothly into the creamy base. Once all of the mascarpone is incorporated, the mixture should be thick and smooth.
Step 5: Whisk the Egg Whites
In a separate clean bowl, beat the egg whites with the remaining sugar (60g) until stiff peaks form. This will take a few minutes, and you can check for stiffness by lifting the beaters out of the mixture – the peaks should stand straight up.
Step 6: Fold the Egg Whites into the Mascarpone Mixture
Carefully fold the whipped egg whites into the mascarpone mixture. Use a spatula and fold gently, starting from the bottom and bringing the mixture from the sides toward the center, to avoid deflating the whipped egg whites. The goal is to maintain the lightness of the egg whites while incorporating them into the creamy mixture.
Step 7: Assemble the Tiramisu
Now, it’s time to assemble the tiramisu! Start by spooning a generous layer of the mascarpone cream into the bottom of a 30×19.5cm (approximately 12×8 inches) glass baking dish. Spread it out evenly to form a smooth base layer.
Step 8: Soak the Ladyfingers
Next, quickly dip the savoiardi (ladyfingers) into the cooled coffee. Do not soak them for too long – a few seconds on each side is enough to moisten them without turning them soggy. Lay the soaked ladyfingers in the baking dish, ensuring they form a tight layer. You can place them in a row, aligning them in one direction for a neat presentation.
Step 9: Add Another Layer of Mascarpone Cream
Spread another layer of mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers, smoothing it out to cover them completely. Repeat this layering process: dip more savoiardi in the coffee, layer them in the dish, and top with more mascarpone cream. The layers should alternate between ladyfingers and mascarpone mixture.
Step 10: Final Layer and Decoration
Once all the layers are assembled, transfer the remaining mascarpone cream into a piping bag fitted with a smooth round tip (12mm in diameter). Pipe small mounds of cream across the top to give it a decorative finish.
Step 11: Dust with Cocoa Powder
To finish, dust the top of the tiramisu generously with unsweetened cocoa powder. You can use a fine mesh sieve or sifter for an even, delicate layer of cocoa.
Step 12: Chill Before Serving
Cover the tiramisu with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, though overnight is best. This allows the flavors to meld and the dessert to set, ensuring it holds together when served.
Step 13: Serve and Enjoy
After chilling, your tiramisu is ready to serve. Slice it into 8 portions and enjoy this decadent Italian classic with family and friends.
Expert Tips for Perfect Tiramisu
- Coffee Quality: The coffee is a key ingredient in tiramisu, so be sure to use high-quality espresso or strong brewed coffee for the best flavor. If you prefer a more intense coffee taste, consider adding a shot of coffee liqueur like Kahlúa to the coffee before soaking the ladyfingers.
- Egg Safety: This recipe uses raw eggs, which is traditional in tiramisu. If you’re concerned about consuming raw eggs, look for pasteurized eggs or use a cooked custard base instead.
- Customize Your Tiramisu: While classic tiramisu is made with coffee, you can experiment with different flavor profiles. For example, try adding a splash of dark rum or vanilla extract to the mascarpone mixture for extra depth.
- Serve Chilled: Tiramisu tastes best when it’s allowed to chill for several hours or overnight. This resting time allows the flavors to fully develop and the dessert to set properly.
- Layering Tips: Be gentle when folding the egg whites into the mascarpone mixture to keep the texture light and airy. Additionally, avoid soaking the ladyfingers for too long to maintain their structure in the dessert.
Tiramisu is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience of layered textures and deep flavors. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday celebration, a family gathering, or simply to treat yourself, this classic tiramisu recipe will bring a taste of Italy to your home. Enjoy the perfect balance of creamy, coffee-infused goodness with every bite, and share this timeless Italian indulgence with loved ones.
