If you’ve ever craved a dessert that’s rich, creamy, and bursting with coffee flavor, tiramisu is the perfect treat. This iconic Italian dessert combines layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers with luscious mascarpone cream and a dusting of cocoa powder. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply want to indulge yourself, this easy tiramisu recipe will become your go-to.

What Is Tiramisu?

Tiramisu, meaning “pick me up” in Italian, is a no-bake dessert that’s beloved worldwide. It originated in the Veneto region of Italy and quickly became famous for its unique texture and balanced flavors — the bittersweet espresso contrasts beautifully with the smooth, sweet cream.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 6 large egg yolks

• 3/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1 cup mascarpone cheese (room temperature)

• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream

• 1 cup strong brewed espresso or coffee, cooled

• 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)

• About 24 ladyfinger biscuits (savoiardi)

• Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting

• Dark chocolate shavings (optional)

Step-by-Step Tiramisu Recipe

1. Prepare the Mascarpone Cream

In a large bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar together until the mixture becomes pale and creamy. This can take about 5 minutes by hand or 3 minutes with an electric mixer.

Next, gently fold in the mascarpone cheese until smooth and creamy.

In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Carefully fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture, ensuring you don’t deflate the cream.

2. Soak the Ladyfingers

Mix the cooled espresso with coffee liqueur (if using) in a shallow dish. Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture for just 1-2 seconds — don’t soak them or they’ll get too soggy.

3. Assemble the Layers

In your serving dish (a 9x9 inch pan works well), layer half of the soaked ladyfingers in an even layer. Spread half of the mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers.

Repeat with another layer of soaked ladyfingers and top with the remaining mascarpone cream.

4. Chill and Serve

Cover the tiramisu with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours — overnight is best for flavors to meld.

Before serving, dust the top generously with unsweetened cocoa powder and add chocolate shavings if desired.

Tips for the Perfect Tiramisu

• Use fresh, high-quality mascarpone for the best creamy texture.

• Don’t over-soak the ladyfingers; they should be moist but not mushy.

• Let the tiramisu chill long enough so the flavors marry beautifully.

• If you prefer, you can substitute the raw egg yolks with pasteurized eggs or use whipped cream only for a safer option.

Final Thoughts

Tiramisu is a timeless dessert that impresses with minimal effort at foodvlove. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between coffee richness, creamy sweetness, and a hint of cocoa bitterness. Try it once, and it might just become your favorite dessert to make and share.