Name: Authentic Italian Tiramisu Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 6 h 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 6 large egg yolks; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 pound mascarpone cheese; 2 cups strong brewed espresso or coffee, cooled; 1/4 cup coffee liqueur (optional); 2 packs (7 oz total) ladyfinger cookies (savoiardi); Unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting; Dark chocolate shavings (optional for garnish)

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If you love Italian desserts, there’s nothing quite so captivating as a creamy, dreamy Authentic Italian Tiramisu. This classic no-bake treat layers coffee-soaked ladyfingers with the silkiest mascarpone cream, dusted with cocoa and finished with an indulgent touch of chocolate. The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity and irresistible flavor—once you know how to make authentic tiramisu, you’ll want to bring it to every gathering and savor it often at home.

Authentic Italian Tiramisu Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Authentic Italian Tiramisu comes together with just a handful of staple ingredients, but each one plays a pivotal role in crafting that signature taste and luxurious texture. Don’t be tempted to swap or skip—each component is essential for that true Italian flair.

Egg yolks: Provide richness and structure for the decadent mascarpone layer—use the freshest eggs you can find.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the custard and balances out the bitterness from the coffee and cocoa.
Heavy cream: Whips up light and fluffy, giving the filling its luscious, airy character.
Mascarpone cheese: The heart of Authentic Italian Tiramisu; its ultra-creamy texture makes this dessert unforgettable.
Espresso or strong brewed coffee: Brings that undeniably Italian coffee kick—make sure it’s fully cooled before you dip.
Coffee liqueur (optional): Adds a touch of warmth and complexity; skip it for an alcohol-free version that’s just as delicious.
Ladyfinger cookies (savoiardi): Perfectly sponge-like and ready to soak up every drop of coffee goodness without turning soggy.
Unsweetened cocoa powder: For dusting the top layer—choose a high-quality brand for deep flavor and beautiful color.
Dark chocolate shavings (optional): Offer extra flair and a hint of bittersweet crunch for garnish.

How to Make Authentic Italian Tiramisu

Step 1: Prepare the Custard Base

Set a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water, ensuring the bottom doesn’t touch the water. Whisk the egg yolks and granulated sugar together persistently for about 8 to 10 minutes, until the mixture becomes pale, thick, and hits 160°F. This step transforms the yolks into a safe, luscious custard—the backbone of your Authentic Italian Tiramisu. Let it cool slightly so your cheese won’t melt in the next step!

Step 2: Whip the Cream

In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. This step is key for creating a filling that’s both light and rich. Over-whipping can make it grainy, so as soon as you see stiff peaks, stop and get ready for mascarpone magic.

Step 3: Bring In the Mascarpone

Beat the mascarpone cheese in a large bowl until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the cooled egg yolk mixture, followed by the whipped cream, using sweeping motions to keep as much air as possible. Take your time—this is where the dreamy texture of Authentic Italian Tiramisu comes together, and you don’t want to lose all that wonderful fluffiness.

Step 4: Dip the Ladyfingers

Mix the espresso and coffee liqueur in a shallow dish. With one hand, swiftly dip each ladyfinger in the liquid—just 1 to 2 seconds per side. The secret is speed: too long, and they’ll go mushy; too short, and they’ll be dry. Lay half of them in a single layer in your chosen dish, setting the stage for the first glorious round of layering.

Step 5: Layer and Repeat

Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers, smoothing it out gently. Add another layer of dipped ladyfingers, finishing with the rest of the mascarpone cream. Use a spatula to swirl the top into soft peaks—remember, we eat with our eyes first, especially with show-stopping desserts like Authentic Italian Tiramisu!

Step 6: Chill and Finish

Cover your creation and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, but overnight is even better. This resting period lets the flavors meld and the texture set to that irresistible, sliceable perfection. Right before serving, dust liberally with unsweetened cocoa powder, then scatter on dark chocolate shavings if you like. Get ready to wow every guest and yourself.

How to Serve Authentic Italian Tiramisu

Garnishes

Before serving, give your Authentic Italian Tiramisu its final flourish with a generous dusting of unsweetened cocoa powder. For a touch of elegance, sprinkle on dark chocolate shavings or adorn with a few coffee beans. Each garnish adds a new layer of flavor and makes every bite visually enticing.

Side Dishes

This dessert truly shines on its own, but if you want to round out your Italian dinner, try pairing tiramisu with a fresh fruit salad or a tiny scoop of lemon sorbet. For a café-style finish, serve with a cup of strong espresso or a creamy cappuccino—simple sides that complement the richness without overwhelming it.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, assemble individual tiramisus in glasses or ramekins for a charming, mess-free touch. For special occasions, layer the dessert in a trifle bowl for stunning views of the beautiful layers. Even a rustic family-style baking dish brims with that homemade Italian spirit. No matter how you serve it, Authentic Italian Tiramisu always makes a dramatic entrance.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, cover the tiramisu snugly with plastic wrap and keep it in the fridge. It will stay perfectly luscious for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, so even day-two tiramisu is swoon-worthy. Just be sure not to leave it out at room temperature for too long to maintain the luscious texture and food safety.

Freezing

Authentic Italian Tiramisu freezes beautifully, making it great for prep-ahead desserts. Cut it into portions or keep it whole, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and again in foil. Freeze for up to a month. When you’re ready, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. The texture will be slightly softer but still utterly scrumptious.

Reheating

You don’t need to reheat this dessert, since it’s made to be enjoyed cold and creamy! Simply remove from the fridge just before serving for the freshest taste and best texture. If it’s been in the freezer, thaw overnight and serve chilled as always.

FAQs

Why does my tiramisu come out runny?

If your tiramisu is too runny, it may be due to over-soaked ladyfingers or a mascarpone mixture that wasn’t mixed gently. Always dip cookies quickly and fold the cream ingredients together until just combined for Authentic Italian Tiramisu that holds its shape.

Can I make Authentic Italian Tiramisu without coffee liqueur?

Absolutely! The coffee liqueur is optional and can be left out for a family-friendly or alcohol-free version that’s just as delicious and true to tradition.

How far in advance can I make tiramisu?

You can prepare Authentic Italian Tiramisu up to two days in advance. In fact, the flavor improves as it sits, so making it ahead is actually encouraged for the creamiest, most flavorful result.

Is mascarpone cheese essential, or can I use a substitute?

While you may find quick substitutes online, nothing compares to the velvety texture of real mascarpone in Authentic Italian Tiramisu. If you must substitute, try to use a mix of cream cheese and heavy cream, but know the flavor and texture will be different.

What’s the best way to get neat slices when serving?

For picture-perfect slices, use a long, sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between each cut. Chilling the Authentic Italian Tiramisu overnight is also crucial for clean, beautiful layers on the plate.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve ever wanted to master a classic Italian dessert, this Authentic Italian Tiramisu will win you over with its restaurant-worthy flavor and pure, creamy comfort. Try it once, and you’ll discover why it’s been adored for generations. Gather your ingredients, follow the easy steps, and enjoy every wonderfully indulgent bite!

Authentic Italian Tiramisu Recipe

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Author: admin
Total Time: 6 hours 30 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the rich and creamy flavors of this Authentic Italian Tiramisu. This classic dessert features layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and a luscious mascarpone cream, topped with cocoa powder and dark chocolate shavings.

Ingredients

Scale

Egg Mixture:

6 large egg yolks
3/4 cup granulated sugar

Mascarpone Cream:

1 cup heavy cream
1 pound mascarpone cheese

Assembly:

2 cups strong brewed espresso or coffee, cooled
1/4 cup coffee liqueur (optional)
2 packs (7 oz total) ladyfinger cookies (savoiardi)
Unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting
Dark chocolate shavings (optional for garnish)

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Instructions

Egg Mixture: In a heatproof bowl over a double boiler, whisk egg yolks and sugar until pale and thick. Remove from heat and cool slightly.
Mascarpone Cream: Whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. In a separate bowl, beat mascarpone until smooth. Gently fold in egg mixture and whipped cream until fluffy.
Assembly: Dip ladyfingers in coffee mixture and layer in a dish. Spread mascarpone mixture over ladyfingers. Repeat layering. Refrigerate for at least 6 hours.
Before serving, dust with cocoa powder and garnish with chocolate shavings.