What is Tiramisù?
Tiramisù, which translates to “pick me up” in Italian, is a classic Italian dessert known for its rich and creamy texture. Traditionally made with savoiardi (ladyfingers), espresso coffee, mascarpone cheese, egg whites, sugar, and marsala wine, this no-bake dessert layers coffee-soaked biscuits with a luscious mascarpone mixture and is finished with a dusting of cocoa powder.
Although modern variations include chocolate or different liqueurs, the authentic Italian recipe sticks to its roots with simple, high-quality ingredients.
Ingredients (Serves 6-8)
✔ 4 egg whites
✔ 2 egg yolks
✔ 100g (½ cup) sugar (or 5 tbsp fruit sugar, adjusted to taste)
✔ 500g (2½ cups) mascarpone cheese
✔ 4 small cups of espresso coffee
✔ Marsala wine (or substitute with brandy or cognac)
✔ 400g savoiardi (ladyfingers)
✔ Dark cocoa powder for dusting
Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Prepare the Coffee Mixture
- Brew strong espresso coffee, sweeten it slightly, and add marsala wine (or cognac/brandy).
- Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
2. Make the Mascarpone Cream
- Separate the 2 egg yolks and 4 egg whites into different bowls.
- Beat the sugar into the egg yolks until pale and creamy.
- Mix in the mascarpone cheese until smooth.
3. Whip the Egg Whites
- Whisk the 4 egg whites until they form stiff peaks.
- Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the mascarpone mixture to keep it light and airy.
4. Assemble the Tiramisù
- Quickly dip both sides of the ladyfingers into the cooled espresso mixture (do not soak for too long).
- In a large dish or pan, layer the soaked ladyfingers at the bottom.
- Spread a generous layer of the mascarpone mixture over the biscuits.
- Repeat the layers, finishing with a mascarpone layer on top.
5. Add the Final Touch
- Dust the top with dark cocoa powder for a rich, slightly bitter contrast.
6. Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate for at least one hour before serving (overnight is best for the flavors to meld).
Notes & Variations
✔ Savoiardi vs. Ladyfingers – Authentic tiramisù uses savoiardi biscuits, which are firmer and absorb the coffee mixture better than American-style ladyfingers. Sponge cake can also be used as an alternative.
✔ Alternative Thickening Method – Instead of egg whites, you can use double cream:
- Whisk ¾ pint to 1 pint of double cream until stiff peaks form.
- Mix it with the sugar and proceed as per the original method.
✔ Mascarpone Substitutes – If mascarpone is unavailable, you can use full-fat cream cheese mixed with a little heavy cream for a similar texture.
Important Tips & Warnings
⚠ Ladyfingers in this recipe refer to biscuits, not okra!
⚠ Ensure the egg whites or cream are whipped to stiff peaks before mixing—this helps the tiramisù set properly.
⚠ For a deeper flavor, allow the tiramisù to rest in the fridge overnight before serving.
This classic Italian tiramisù balances the richness of mascarpone, the boldness of espresso, and the delicate sweetness of marsala wine—a true indulgence in every bite! 🇮🇹☕🍰