
Tiramisu is a beloved Italian dessert known for its rich, creamy layers of mascarpone, coffee-soaked ladyfingers, and a dusting of cocoa powder. This no-bake dessert is the perfect make-ahead treat for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply indulging in a luxurious treat at home. The combination of bold espresso, smooth mascarpone, and light, airy whipped cream creates a balanced and irresistible flavor.
With a few simple techniques, you can make authentic tiramisu right in your kitchen! Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure your tiramisu turns out light, creamy, and absolutely delicious.

Preparation & Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Chill Time: 8 hours or overnight
- Total Time: 8 hours 30 minutes
- Servings: 12 slices
Ingredients
For the Coffee Mixture:
- 1 ½ cups room temperature espresso or strong coffee
- 6 tablespoons golden rum, divided
- 40 ladyfingers
For the Mascarpone Cream:
- 6 large egg yolks
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 16 ounces cold mascarpone cheese
- 2 cups cold heavy whipping cream
For Dusting:
- 2-3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
Instructions
- In a shallow bowl, mix the espresso (or coffee) and 3 tablespoons of rum.
- Quickly dip half of the ladyfingers into the mixture, making sure each side is moistened but not soaked (over-soaking will make the tiramisu collapse).
- Arrange the dipped ladyfingers in a single layer at the bottom of a 9×13 inch casserole dish.
- In a heatproof bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and granulated sugar until the mixture turns pale yellow.
- Place the bowl over a saucepan of simmering water (double boiler method).
- Whisk continuously on low heat for 8-10 minutes, until the mixture thickens slightly and reaches a temperature of 160-170°F (71-77°C).
- Remove from heat and continue whisking for a few minutes to help it cool.
- In a separate bowl, beat the cold mascarpone cheese with the remaining 3 tablespoons of rum using an electric mixer until smooth.
- Gradually beat the cooled egg yolk mixture into the mascarpone mixture until smooth and fully incorporated.
- In a separate clean bowl, beat the cold heavy whipping cream with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold half of the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture, then fold in the rest until smooth.
- Be careful not to over-mix, as this can make the cream grainy.
- Spread half of the mascarpone cream mixture evenly over the first layer of ladyfingers.
- Dip the remaining ladyfingers in the coffee mixture and arrange them over the mascarpone layer.
- Spread the remaining mascarpone cream evenly on top.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours (preferably overnight) to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly.
- Just before serving, dust the top of the tiramisu generously with unsweetened cocoa powder using a fine-mesh sieve.
- Slice and serve chilled.
Nutrition Facts (Per Slice – Approximate)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 20g

This Classic Tiramisu is the perfect combination of coffee-soaked biscuits, rich mascarpone, and airy whipped cream. The flavors develop beautifully as it chills, making it even better the next day! Whether you’re making it for a special event or a weekend treat, this authentic Italian recipe is sure to impress.
Enjoy your homemade tiramisu! 🍰☕🍫
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