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Classic Tiramisu Recipe

4.9 from 573 reviews

This classic Italian Tiramisu recipe features layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone filling, and a dusting of cocoa powder. The dessert combines rich flavors of coffee, rum, and velvety mascarpone cream, making it a perfect indulgent treat that requires chilling for a luscious texture.

Ingredients

Scale

Espresso and Ladyfingers

  • 1 1/2 cups espresso (or strong coffee), room temperature
  • 6 Tbsp golden rum, divided
  • 40 ladyfingers

Mascarpone Cream

  • 6 large egg yolks
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 16 oz mascarpone, cold
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold

Finishing

  • 23 Tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder, to dust

Instructions

  1. Soak the Ladyfingers: In a bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups espresso and 3 Tbsp rum. Quickly dip half of the ladyfingers one at a time so they are moist but not soaked, then lay them in a single layer at the bottom of a 9×13 casserole dish.
  2. Cook Eggs and Sugar: Whisk the egg yolks and sugar in a medium heatproof bowl. Place the bowl over simmering water (steaming, not touching the water) and whisk constantly for 10–12 minutes until the mixture reaches 160°F and is light, thickened, and smooth. Remove from heat and whisk a few more minutes to slightly cool.
  3. Prepare Mascarpone: In a large bowl, beat mascarpone with 3 Tbsp rum until smooth. Using an electric mixer, beat in the warm egg yolk mixture until fully incorporated.
  4. Make Whipped Cream: Beat cold heavy whipping cream in a chilled bowl to stiff peaks without overmixing. Gently fold half of the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture, then fold in the remaining cream just until incorporated to avoid graininess.
  5. Layer the Tiramisu: Spread half of the cream over the soaked ladyfingers. Quickly dip the remaining ladyfingers in the espresso-rum mixture and arrange over the cream. Spread the remaining cream on top. Cover dish with foil and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight.
  6. Finish and Serve: Before serving, dust the top of the tiramisu with 2-3 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder. It’s acceptable to dust earlier, though the color may darken slightly.

Notes

  • Use very cold heavy whipping cream for best results, not light cream.
  • A mixing bowl with a rim helps keep steam and condensation away from the egg-sugar mixture.
  • Beat the heavy cream slowly, beginning on medium-low and increasing speed gradually to maintain stability and prevent it from turning watery or buttery.
  • Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze airtight for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Keywords: Tiramisu, Italian dessert, mascarpone, coffee dessert, no bake dessert, rum, espresso