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The Easiest, Creamiest Classic Tiramisu Recipe (No-Bake & Make-Ahead)

A rich, layered slice of tiramisu recipe dessert dusted heavily with cocoa powder on a white plate.

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Make this classic Italian dessert easily. You get creamy mascarpone layers, espresso-soaked ladyfingers, and a cocoa dusting in this simple, no-bake recipe perfect for any gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup strong brewed espresso, cooled
  • 1/4 cup coffee liqueur or dark rum (optional)
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 16 ounces mascarpone cheese, cold
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold
  • 1 package (7 ounces) ladyfingers (Savoiardi)
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting

Instructions

  1. Prepare the coffee dip: In a shallow bowl, combine the cooled espresso and coffee liqueur, if using. Set aside.
  2. Make the mascarpone cream base: In a medium bowl, whisk the egg yolks and granulated sugar together until the mixture is pale yellow and thick. Whisk in the vanilla extract.
  3. In a separate large bowl, beat the cold heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
  4. Gently fold the cold mascarpone cheese into the egg yolk mixture until just combined and smooth. Do not overmix.
  5. Carefully fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture in two additions until you have a uniform, creamy texture.
  6. Assemble the tiramisu: Quickly dip one side of a ladyfinger into the espresso mixture for just a second or two. You want it moist, not soggy.
  7. Arrange a single layer of dipped ladyfingers in the bottom of an 8×8 inch baking dish. Break them if necessary to fit.
  8. Spread half of the mascarpone cream mixture evenly over the layer of ladyfingers.
  9. Repeat the process: Dip and layer the remaining ladyfingers over the cream.
  10. Spread the remaining mascarpone cream evenly over the second layer of ladyfingers.
  11. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the dessert to set and the flavors to blend.
  12. Before serving, generously dust the top layer with unsweetened cocoa powder using a fine-mesh sieve. Slice and serve your homemade tiramisu.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, use very strong, freshly brewed espresso.
  • If you skip the alcohol, add 1 teaspoon of almond extract to the coffee dip for depth.
  • Make sure your heavy cream and mascarpone are very cold for the best whipping results.
  • This make-ahead dessert tastes best after chilling overnight.

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