Italian Tiramisu with Espresso and Mascarpone
Indulge in the rich, classic flavors of Italian Tiramisu with Espresso and Mascarpone! This no-bake dessert features delicate layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone filling, and a dusting of cocoa for the perfect bittersweet finish. Made with bold espresso and smooth, velvety cream, this authentic Italian treat is ideal for dinner parties, holidays, or whenever you crave something elegant and indulgent. Easy to prepare yet irresistibly luxurious, it’s a timeless dessert that never goes out of style. Save this crowd-pleasing tiramisu recipe for your next special occasion!
Ingredients
- 6 large egg yolks
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup strong brewed espresso, cooled
- 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)
- 24–30 ladyfinger cookies (savoiardi)
- Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
- Dark chocolate shavings (optional)
Instructions
- Brew strong espresso and allow it to cool. Add coffee liqueur if using.
- In a heatproof bowl, whisk egg yolks and sugar together. Place over a pot of simmering water (double boiler) and whisk constantly for 5–6 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and let it cool.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- Fold the mascarpone into the cooled egg yolk mixture until smooth.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture to create a light and creamy filling.
- Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the cooled espresso, ensuring they are soaked but not soggy.
- Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of a serving dish.
- Spread half of the mascarpone mixture evenly over the ladyfingers.
- Repeat with another layer of soaked ladyfingers and the remaining mascarpone mixture.
- Smooth the top and cover the tiramisu with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 4–6 hours, preferably overnight, to allow flavors to meld.
- Just before serving, dust the top generously with cocoa powder and garnish with dark chocolate shavings if desired.