Tiramisu
← Recipe archiveDessert

Tiramisu

Espresso-soaked ladyfingers under clouds of mascarpone cream and cocoa — the refrigerator does the real work overnight.

DifficultyMediumTotal time30 minServes9
01

Overview

Prep30 min
Cook0 min
Total30 min
Servings9
DifficultyMedium
02

Ingredients

03

Equipment

  • 8×8-inch baking dish
  • Electric mixer
  • Shallow dish for espresso
04

Method

01
Brew and cool

Brew and cool

Prepare strong espresso and allow it to cool completely.

02

Beat the mascarpone

Beat the mascarpone and vanilla until smooth.

03

Whip the cream

Whip the heavy cream and sugar until it holds soft, creamy peaks.

04

Fold

Fold the mascarpone mixture into the whipped cream.

05

Dip and layer

Quickly dip the ladyfingers in espresso and arrange them in an even layer.

06
First cream layer

First cream layer

Spread over half the mascarpone cream.

07

Second layer

Repeat with another layer of espresso-dipped ladyfingers and the remaining cream.

08

Chill overnight

Cover and refrigerate overnight, about 8 hours.

09
Dust and serve

Dust and serve

Dust generously with cocoa before serving.

Tips

NoteThe hardest part of this recipe is waiting — don't shorten the chilling time; the ladyfingers need those hours to soften and the mascarpone layer needs time to set enough to slice.
NoteDip the ladyfingers for one second per side — they keep soaking in the dish.
NoteDust with cocoa right before serving, not before chilling — cocoa dulls under plastic wrap.

Nutrition

NoteNutrition varies by ingredient brands and serving size.

Storage

RefrigeratorCover and refrigerate up to 3 days; dust with cocoa just before serving.
?

Frequently asked

Does this use raw eggs?+

No — this version is built on whipped cream and mascarpone, so it's safe for everyone at the table.

Can I add alcohol?+

Yes — a tablespoon or two of marsala, rum, or amaretto stirred into the cooled espresso is traditional.

Can I freeze it?+

You can, but the cream can turn slightly grainy on thawing; the fridge for 3 days is the better plan.

Reader Notes

Little thoughts from readers

A small corner for words, memories and gentle feelings.

No notes yet. Leave the first little message.

Leave a little note

Tell June what this page made you feel.