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Toggle❤️ Introduction
authentic tiramisu recipe, Tiramisu isn’t just a dessert—it’s Italy’s sweet, creamy love letter to coffee lovers and dreamers of all things decadent. Born in the cafes of Treviso, this legendary no-bake dessert layers espresso-soaked ladyfingers with a luscious mascarpone cream, dusted with bitter cocoa to round out the sweetness with elegance. One spoonful, and you’re transported to a charming Italian street corner, where time slows down and flavors sing.
Whether you’re making this for a celebration, a romantic evening, or a solo indulgence (yes, you deserve it), this authentic tiramisu recipe is fail-proof and flavor-packed.
🛒 Recipe Ingredients
Let’s talk ingredients. What makes tiramisu unforgettable is the quality of its components. Go authentic and go premium. Here’s what you’ll need:
🌟 Highlight Ingredient: Mascarpone Cheese
This rich, buttery Italian cream cheese is the soul of tiramisu. Smooth and velvety, mascarpone gives tiramisu its iconic mouthfeel. Avoid substitutions—cream cheese won’t do justice!
✅ Ingredients for 1x (6 servings)
6 egg yolks
¾ cup granulated sugar
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1 pound mascarpone cheese (room temp)
2 cups strong brewed espresso or coffee (cooled)
¼ cup coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa) – optional but magical
2 packs of ladyfinger biscuits (savoiardi)
Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)
Bittersweet chocolate shavings (optional)
🔁 Ingredients Scaling
Ingredient | 1x (6 servings) | 2x (12 servings) | 4x (24 servings) |
---|---|---|---|
Egg yolks | 6 | 12 | 24 |
Sugar | ¾ cup | 1½ cup | 3 cups |
Whipping Cream | 1 cup | 2 cups | 4 cups |
Mascarpone | 1 lb | 2 lbs | 4 lbs |
Espresso | 2 cups | 4 cups | 8 cups |
Coffee Liqueur | ¼ cup | ½ cup | 1 cup |
Ladyfingers | 2 packs | 4 packs | 8 packs |
Cocoa powder | For dusting | For dusting | For dusting |
👨🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions (Time Intervals Included)
Step 1: Make the Zabaglione (10 mins)
In a double boiler or heatproof bowl over simmering water, whisk 6 egg yolks and ¾ cup sugar until thick, pale, and doubled in volume (about 8–10 minutes).
Let it cool slightly
Step 2: Whip the Cream (5 mins)
In a chilled bowl, whip 1 cup of heavy cream to stiff peaks. Do not overbeat.

Step 3: Fold in the Mascarpone (5 mins)
Fold 1 lb mascarpone into the cooled zabaglione, then gently fold in the whipped cream. This is your creamy dream filling.
Step 4: Prepare Coffee Mixture (2 mins)
Mix 2 cups espresso with ¼ cup coffee liqueur (optional) in a shallow dish.
Step 5: Assemble (10–15 mins)
Dip ladyfingers briefly in the coffee mixture (1–2 seconds per side). Layer in a dish.
Add half of the mascarpone mixture. Repeat another layer of dipped ladyfingers.
Finish with the remaining mascarpone cream.
Step 6: Chill (Minimum 6 hours)
Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours (overnight is best).
Step 7: Dust & Serve (2 mins)
Just before serving, dust the top generously with unsweetened cocoa powder. Garnish with chocolate shavings if desired.
💧 How to Make Tiramisu Moist and Creamy
Moisture is magic in tiramisu. Here’s the secret: Don’t over-soak the ladyfingers, but don’t be too quick either. Aim for 2 seconds per side—this lets them absorb enough espresso without turning to mush. Also, use high-fat mascarpone and avoid freezing your cream before whipping; room temp mascarpone blends smoother and prevents graininess.
🔬 10 Test Kitchen Tips
Use fresh eggs for the zabaglione for best taste.
Brew real espresso—instant coffee won’t cut it.
Chill your mixing bowl before whipping cream.
Use a wide shallow dish for dipping ladyfingers.
Fold mascarpone gently to maintain airiness.
Chill overnight for flavor fusion.
For alcohol-free, replace liqueur with coffee syrup.
For slicing ease, freeze for 30 mins before cutting.
Dust cocoa only right before serving to avoid sogginess.
Want extra kick? Add a hint of rum to the filling.
❄️ Storage Guide
Tiramisu can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Always use a clean spatula to avoid bacterial contamination.
🧊 Can You Freeze Tiramisu?
Yes, you absolutely can! Freeze tiramisu (uncut or in slices) wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil. Store in an airtight freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight. Don’t microwave—it ruins the texture. Always freeze before dusting cocoa, and add fresh cocoa when serving.
💬 Community Tips and Praise
“This tiramisu brought back memories of my first Italy trip! The mascarpone mix was so rich, and the coffee punch perfect. Thanks, NonVegKahani—this is now a weekend favorite!”
— Rahul K, Food Enthusiast & Home Chef
🔁 Directions Summary
Make zabaglione.
Whip cream and fold into mascarpone.
Dip ladyfingers in coffee.
Layer cream and soaked biscuits.
Chill overnight.
Dust with cocoa and serve!
🧪 Nutrition (Per Serving – 1x)
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | ~410 kcal |
Protein | 7g |
Fat | 28g |
Carbohydrates | 32g |
Sugar | 18g |
Fiber | 1g |
🎥 Best YouTube Video
Watch this step-by-step guide from [Preppy Kitchen – John Kanell] for visual perfection:
👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cj3iwfB0DVA
❓ FAQ – Tiramisu Edition
Q1: Can I make tiramisu without eggs?
Yes! Use whipped cream and mascarpone only, but it won’t have the same richness as traditional zabaglione.
Q2: What’s the difference between mascarpone and cream cheese?
Mascarpone is richer, smoother, and less tangy—key for authentic tiramisu texture.
Q3: Is tiramisu safe for kids?
If you skip the alcohol and use pasteurized eggs or eggless recipe, it’s absolutely safe.
Q4: Can I make tiramisu in advance?
Yes—it’s actually better the next day as flavors meld beautifully after 24 hours in the fridge.
Q5: What if I can’t find ladyfingers?
Use sponge cake cut into strips and lightly dried out in the oven as a backup.