Colomba Tiramisù: A Heavenly Twist on an Italian Classic
Tiramisù is a beloved Italian dessert, known for its luscious layers of coffee-soaked biscuits, mascarpone cream, and a dusting of cocoa. In this modern spin, we’re swapping traditional ladyfingers for colomba, a sweet dove-shaped Easter cake. This easy, yet decadent, dessert combines the delicate flavors of colomba with a creamy, citrus-infused mascarpone filling, resulting in a truly irresistible treat. Let’s dive into this step-by-step guide for creating a Tiramisù di Colomba, perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Colomba (Italian Easter cake) | 160g |
| Mascarpone cheese | 250g |
| Orange juice | 75g |
| Orange zest | 1 zest |
| Eggs | 3 |
| Grand Marnier | 20g |
| Dark chocolate | 30g |
| Sugar | 60g |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Colomba Base
- Begin by slicing the colomba cake into 8 cm discs. You can use a cookie cutter or a drinking glass as a mold to ensure evenly sized rounds.
- Arrange the discs on a baking tray and toast them in a preheated oven at 160°C (320°F) for about 10 minutes. Be sure to flip them halfway through to ensure they are evenly crisped.
Step 2: Make the Mascarpone Cream
- Separate the eggs into two bowls, placing the yolks in one and the whites in another.
- In the bowl with the yolks, whisk in the sugar and beat until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and pale in color.
- In a separate, clean bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the egg whites into the yolk mixture, incorporating them carefully to preserve the airy texture.
- Add the mascarpone to the egg mixture and blend until smooth, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Grate the zest of one orange into the mixture and stir to combine, adding a fragrant citrus note to the cream.
Step 3: Make the Orange Syrup
- Cut the orange in half and squeeze the juice into a small bowl, straining it to remove any pulp or seeds.
- Mix in the Grand Marnier and set the syrup aside. This orange-infused syrup will soak the cake discs, lending a delightful, boozy twist to the dessert.
Step 4: Assemble the Tiramisù
- Begin layering the dessert in individual cups or a large serving dish. Place the first toasted colomba disc at the bottom of each cup.
- Using a teaspoon, drizzle the orange syrup generously over the colomba, allowing it to soak in without making it soggy.
- Top the soaked colomba with a spoonful of the mascarpone cream, smoothing it out evenly.
- Repeat the process with another layer of colomba and mascarpone cream. Make sure the layers alternate to create the perfect balance of textures and flavors.
- Finish with a final layer of mascarpone cream, then sprinkle the grated dark chocolate over the top for a delightful crunch and extra richness.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
- Place the cups in the refrigerator and chill for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to firm up.
- Once chilled, your Tiramisù di Colomba is ready to serve. Spoon out the creamy layers and enjoy the delightful contrast between the crisp colomba, smooth mascarpone, and the citrusy zing of orange.
Serving Tips & Variations
- Serving Suggestions: This dessert is perfect for special occasions like Easter or festive gatherings. Serve it in individual cups for a beautiful presentation or as a large family-style dish for a more casual setting.
- Chocolate Variations: Experiment with different types of chocolate. White chocolate chips or cocoa powder can be used in place of dark chocolate for a lighter twist.
- Non-Alcoholic Version: If you prefer a non-alcoholic dessert, you can substitute the Grand Marnier with a splash of orange juice or a few drops of orange extract.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Tiramisù di Colomba is a fusion of two classic Italian treats: the creamy indulgence of tiramisù and the delicate flavor of colomba cake. With its airy layers, hint of orange zest, and velvety mascarpone, it’s a dessert that’s both refreshing and decadent. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a unique twist on a beloved classic, this recipe will impress your guests with its elegance and taste.
Don’t forget to pair it with a glass of chilled dessert wine or a cup of espresso to enhance the experience!
