Italian · Desserts

Classic Tiramisu Recipe | Authentic Italian Coffee Dessert

Name: Classic Tiramisu Recipe | Authentic Italian Coffee Dessert
Prep time: 25 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 250g Mascarpone cheese; 3 large (separated) Eggs; 100g Sugar; 200ml (strong, cooled) Espresso coffee; 2 tablespoons (optional) Coffee liqueur; 200g (savoiardi) Ladyfinger biscuits; 2 tablespoons Cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract

Learn how to make authentic Italian tiramisu with layers of coffee-soaked biscuits and creamy mascarpone. A rich and elegant dessert recipe.

Prep: 25 min
Cook: 0 min
Serves: 6
Difficulty: Hard

Method

Coffee Prep

Prepare a strong espresso coffee and allow it to cool completely. Add coffee liqueur if using for extra flavor depth.

Egg Separation

Separate egg yolks and egg whites into two bowls.

Creamy Yolks

Whisk egg yolks with sugar until the mixture becomes pale, creamy, and slightly thick.

Mascarpone Mix

Add mascarpone cheese and vanilla extract to the yolk mixture and gently mix until smooth and well combined.

Stiff Whites

In a separate bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form, ensuring a light and airy texture.

Gentle Folding

Carefully fold the beaten egg whites into the mascarpone mixture in batches to maintain a fluffy consistency.

The Dip

Quickly dip each ladyfinger biscuit into the cooled coffee mixture for 1–2 seconds, ensuring they are soaked but not soggy.

Chef hand-dipping a ladyfinger biscuit into a bowl of rich espresso coffee with a drip falling back into the bowl

Chef hand-dipping a ladyfinger biscuit into a bowl of rich espresso coffee with a drip falling back into the bowl

First Layer

Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers at the bottom of a serving dish.

Cream Spread

Spread half of the mascarpone cream evenly over the biscuit layer.

Second Tier

Repeat with another layer of soaked ladyfingers followed by the remaining cream.

Chilling Time

Smooth the top layer and refrigerate for at least 4–6 hours (or overnight) to set properly.

Cocoa Dusting

Before serving, dust the top generously with cocoa powder for a rich finishing touch.

Single serving of tiramisu in a glass dessert bowl topped with cocoa powder and dark chocolate curls in a restaurant setting

Single serving of tiramisu in a glass dessert bowl topped with cocoa powder and dark chocolate curls in a restaurant setting

Cook’s tips

Don’t over-soak the ladyfingers: a quick 1-2 second dip is all they need or they will become mushy.
Use room temperature mascarpone for a smoother, lump-free cream.
For the best flavor, let the tiramisu set overnight so the coffee and cream flavors fully meld together.

Recipe notes

Indulge in the ultimate Italian pick-me-up! Atmospheric Italian café table with a large tiramisu dish, espresso cups, and Italian pastries

Completing an authentic Italian dinner? This elegant dessert is the perfect follow-up to our Authentic Margherita Pizza or a hearty Spaghetti Carbonara!

Frequently asked questions

Can I make it without eggs?

Yes, you can substitute the eggs with 200ml of whipped heavy cream for an eggless version.

Is there a non-café alternative?

You can use decaf espresso or even strong hot chocolate for a kid-friendly version.