Tiramisu is a classic Italian dessert that combines layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers with a rich and creamy mixture of mascarpone cheese, eggs, and sugar, topped with a dusting of cocoa powder. This no-bake dessert is known for its luxurious texture and balanced flavors of coffee and sweet cheese.
Ingredients:
- 6 large egg yolks
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups strong espresso, cooled
- 1/2 cup coffee liqueur (optional)
- 2 packages (about 24-30) ladyfingers
- Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
- Dark chocolate shavings (optional, for garnish)
Appliances and Special Utensils:
- Electric mixer (stand or hand)
- Medium to large mixing bowls
- Shallow dish (for dipping ladyfingers)
- 8×8 inch baking dish or a similar size
- Fine mesh sieve (for cocoa powder)
Recipe:
- Prepare the coffee mixture: In a shallow dish, combine the espresso with the coffee liqueur if using. Set aside to cool.
- Make the mascarpone mixture:
- In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the egg yolks and sugar until thick and pale, about 5 minutes.
- Add the mascarpone cheese and beat until smooth.
- Whip the cream:
- In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until well combined.
- Assemble the tiramisu:
- Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture. Do not soak them too long or they will become too mushy.
- Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers at the bottom of the baking dish.
- Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers.
- Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and top with the remaining mascarpone mixture.
- Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Chill and serve:
- Cover the tiramisu with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, which allows the flavors to meld.
- Before serving, dust the top with unsweetened cocoa powder using a fine mesh sieve.
- Optionally, garnish with dark chocolate shavings for added texture and flavor.
This tiramisu recipe yields a dessert that is both elegant and irresistibly creamy, perfect for any occasion.