Tiramisu, a timeless Italian dessert, translates to "pick me up" due to its energizing ingredients like coffee and cocoa. This layered Tiramisu recipe features coffee-soaked ladyfingers, a rich mascarpone cream, and a dusting of cocoa powder, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that has captivated dessert lovers worldwide.
If you're craving another decadent dessert, try our rich and fudgy eggless chocolate brownie. A perfect treat for all chocolate lovers!

On our trip to Rome, I still remember the first time I tasted tiramisu. It was at a small family-owned Italian café tucked away on a quiet street. The waiter placed a simple glass dish in front of me, dusted with cocoa, looking unassuming yet inviting. With the first spoonful, I was hooked — the creamy mascarpone, bold espresso-soaked ladyfingers, and that perfect hint of cocoa danced together in perfect harmony.
When I returned home, I was determined to recreate that magical dessert. After a few trials, some tweaks, and lots of happy taste tests, I finally found the best Italian dessert recipe that brought back those wonderful memories. Now, every time I make tiramisu, it feels like a little trip back to that charming café in Rome — and I love sharing that experience with family and friends.
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Ingredients of Tiramisu Recipe
Instructions
In a mixer or using a hand mixer, beat the egg yolks and sugar until pale and thick, about 5 minutes.
Beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form and set aside. It should hold the shape.
Top the first layer of cookies with half of the whipped mascarpone mixture and use the back of a spoon to spread it into an even layer. Dust with cocoa powder.
Repeat for another layer and then finish by dusting with cocoa powder on top. Cover with plastic wrap and chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
Ready to serve
Substitutions
Custard: Make a cooked custard by whisking the egg yolks and sugar over a double boiler until thickened, then let it cool before mixing with mascarpone. This method ensures the eggs are fully cooked.
For another no-bake dessert, whip up this tropical no-bake mango cheesecake creamy, sweet, and perfect for warm days.
Variations
- Replace the coffee with hot chocolate or espresso-flavored chocolate milk.
- Add layers of chocolate ganache or melted dark chocolate between the layers.
- Garnish with chocolate shavings or cocoa nibs.
For a creamy, indulgent dessert that's a little healthier, check out this healthy chocolate pudding, packed with flavor but light on calories.
Reasons to love Classic Tiramisu Recipe
- No Baking Required Perfect for any season, this easy, no-bake dessert comes together without turning on the oven.
- Rich and Creamy Texture The silky mascarpone filling combined with whipped cream creates a luscious, light texture that melts in your mouth.
- Perfect Balance of Flavors The bitterness of coffee, the sweetness of sugar, and the slight cocoa finish create a beautifully balanced dessert.
- Elegant Yet Simple Despite its sophisticated look and taste, tiramisu is actually easy to make with just a few ingredients.
- Customizable Whether you want to add a splash of liqueur, switch up the flavors, or make it egg-free, tiramisu offers endless possibilities to suit your taste.
- Crowd-Pleaser Its universally loved flavors make tiramisu a hit with both coffee lovers and those who prefer mild desserts.
Storage
Tiramisu can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container.
Mistakes to avoid
- Over-Soaking the Ladyfingers A quick dip is all they need! Soaking them too long will make them soggy and cause the dessert to turn mushy.
- Skipping the Chilling Time Tiramisu needs time to set and allow the flavors to blend. Rushing it can result in runny layers and less flavor.
- Overmixing the Cream Whipping the cream too long can turn it grainy, and over-folding it into the mascarpone can deflate the mixture. Fold gently to keep it light and airy.
- Using Hot Coffee Always let the coffee cool completely before dipping the ladyfingers. Hot coffee will make them fall apart instantly.
- Dusting with Cocoa Powder Too Early If you dust cocoa powder before chilling, it can absorb moisture and turn dark or patchy. Always dust right before serving.
Top tip
Use authentic Italian savoiardi (ladyfingers) for the best results for authentic tiramisu recipe. They hold up well when soaked and provide the perfect texture.
Tiramisu Recipe
This classic tiramisu recipe brings the taste of Italy right to your kitchen. With layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, rich mascarpone cream, and a dusting of cocoa powder, it’s a dessert that is both elegant and indulgent. Each bite offers a delightful combination of creamy, sweet, and slightly bitter flavors that melt in your mouth. Whether you're preparing it for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this tiramisu is easy to make and will surely impress. Perfect for coffee lovers and anyone who enjoys a no-bake dessert with layers of luxury!
Ingredients
- 6 Eggs
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Essence
- 1 cup Granulated Sugar
- ¼ cup Cocoa Powder
- 16 oz OR 2 cups Mascarpone Cheese
- 1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream
- 14 ladyfinger cookies
- 2 teaspoon coffee mixed in 1 cup warm water
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Whisk together the coffee mixture and vanilla essence in a bowl and set aside.
- Beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form and set aside. It should hold the shape.
- In a mixer or using a hand mixer, beat the egg yolks and sugar until pale and thick, about 5 minutes.
- Add in the salt, mascarpone cheese and continue to whip until smooth. Add the chilled cream and continue to whip, until light, creamy, smooth and can hold a soft peak.
- Gently fold into egg whites.
- Dip each ladyfinger in the coffee mixture to absorb the liquid and start to line them in a baking dish.
- Top the first layer of cookies with half of the whipped mascarpone mixture and use the back of a spoon to spread it into an even layer. Dust with cocoa powder.
- Repeat for another layer and then finish by dusting with cocoa powder on top. Cover with plastic wrap and chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 1679Total Fat: 137gSaturated Fat: 79gTrans Fat: 3gUnsaturated Fat: 44gCholesterol: 737mgSodium: 1324mgCarbohydrates: 90gFiber: 2gSugar: 60gProtein: 27g
FAQ
Yes, you can make tiramisu recipe without raw eggs. Substitute the egg yolks with an equal amount of whipped cream or use a custard made by cooking the egg yolks and sugar over a double boiler until thickened.
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