How to Create Perfect Traditional Tiramisu

Perfect Zabaglione Base

Creating a properly thickened egg and sugar mixture is essential for structure and flavor.

Gentle Folding Technique

Carefully incorporating mascarpone preserves the airy texture of the cream mixture.

Quick Ladyfinger Dipping

Brief immersion in coffee ensures flavor absorption without causing the biscuits to become soggy.

Proper Layering Method

Even distribution of cream and consistent arrangement of ladyfingers creates balanced flavor in each bite.

Baking Tips

Use fresh, high-quality mascarpone for the best flavor and texture.

For a non-alcoholic version, replace the coffee liqueur with additional strong coffee.

Italian savoiardi (ladyfingers) work best as they're drier and absorb the coffee better than soft ladyfingers.

Only briefly dip the ladyfingers - they should still have structure when placed in the dish.

For added safety, use pasteurized eggs or warm the egg mixture to 160°F (71°C) to eliminate risk of salmonella.

Allow at least 6 hours in the refrigerator for the flavors to meld and the tiramisu to set properly.

Traditional Italian Tiramisu

Name: Traditional Italian Tiramisu
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 6 h 30 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 6 large egg yolks; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 16 oz (454g) mascarpone cheese, room temperature; 1 3/4 cups strong brewed coffee or espresso, cooled; 1/4 cup coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa) or dark rum; 24-30 Italian ladyfingers (savoiardi); Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting; Dark chocolate shavings, for garnish (optional)

This authentic Traditional Italian Tiramisu is a classic no-bake dessert that layers coffee-soaked ladyfingers with a light, creamy mascarpone mixture. The contrast between the coffee-infused biscuits and the rich, velvety cream creates an elegant dessert with perfect balance. Each spoonful delivers the harmonious blend of coffee, cocoa, and subtle sweetness that has made tiramisu a beloved Italian classic worldwide. Simple to prepare yet impressive to serve, this tiramisu is perfect for dinner parties, special occasions, or whenever you crave an indulgent homemade treat.

Prep Time

30 Minutes

Cook Time

0 Minutes

Total Time

6H30 Minutes

Chef

JUE

Ingredients

Custard Cream

6 large egg yolks

3/4 cup granulated sugar

16 oz (454g) mascarpone cheese, room temperature

1 3/4 cups strong brewed coffee or espresso, cooled

1/4 cup coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa) or dark rum

24-30 Italian ladyfingers (savoiardi)

Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting

Dark chocolate shavings, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

In a heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water (ensure the bottom doesn't touch the water), whisk egg yolks and sugar until pale and thick, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

In a large bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese until smooth. Fold in the cooled egg yolk mixture gently until well combined and no streaks remain.

In a shallow dish, combine the cooled coffee and coffee liqueur (or rum).

Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture (about 1 second per side - don't soak them or they'll fall apart), and arrange them in a single layer in the bottom of an 8×8-inch dish or a 9-inch square serving dish.

Spread half of the mascarpone mixture evenly over the ladyfingers. Dust lightly with cocoa powder.

Create a second layer of coffee-dipped ladyfingers and top with the remaining mascarpone mixture.

Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.

Before serving, dust generously with cocoa powder and garnish with chocolate shavings if desired.

Traditional Italian Tiramisu

JUE

Essential Ingredients Selection

Creating Your Masterpiece

How to Create Perfect Traditional Tiramisu

Traditional Italian Tiramisu

Ingredients

Instructions