Servings: 8-10
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Chilling Time: At least 4 hours (preferably overnight)
Total Time: Approximately 4 hours 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (240 ml) strong brewed espresso or coffee, cooled to room temperature
- 3 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)
- 4 large egg yolks
- ½ cup (100 grams) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 8 ounces (225 grams) mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 24-30 ladyfingers (savoiardi biscuits)
- Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
Instructions:
- Prepare the Coffee Mixture:
- In a shallow dish, combine the cooled espresso with the coffee liqueur (if using). Set aside.
- Mascarpone Cream Base:
- In a heatproof bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and granulated sugar until well combined.
- Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method), ensuring the bottom doesn’t touch the water. Whisk continuously until the mixture thickens and becomes pale, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Once cooled, add the mascarpone cheese and vanilla extract to the egg mixture. Fold until smooth.
- Whip the Cream:
- In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy cream to stiff peaks.
- Combine Mixtures:
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully incorporated, ensuring a light and airy texture.
- Assemble the Tiramisu:
- Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture for 1-2 seconds per side, ensuring they’re moist but not soggy.
- Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers at the bottom of a 9×9-inch (23×23 cm) dish.
- Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and top with the remaining mascarpone mixture.
- Chill:
- Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.
- Serve:
- Before serving, dust the top generously with unsweetened cocoa powder. Slice and serve chilled.
Notes:
- Ensure eggs are fresh and handled properly, as they are gently cooked in this recipe.
- For a non-alcoholic version, omit the coffee liqueur without compromising the dessert’s taste.
- Using high-quality mascarpone cheese and espresso will enhance the flavor of the tiramisu.
This traditional tiramisu offers a harmonious blend of rich mascarpone cream and robust coffee-soaked ladyfingers, making it a timeless dessert choice.
