Authentic Italian Tiramisu Recipe With Mascarpone & Espresso

This classic, no-bake dessert never disappoints!

It is rich, creamy, and absolutely satisfying. I have tested many shortcuts and versions over the years, but this simple recipe guide remains my favorite.

With only a few steps, you can whip up something classic, cool and comforting. 

Read this article to find out more about how to make tiramisu with authentic Italian flavors. 

Why I Really Love This Recipe!

Do you know why I love this recipe? Let me tell you!

1. It is made the traditional italian way with mascarpone, egg yolks, espresso, and ladyfingers. The authentic italian flavor makes it my NUMBER 1 italian dessert.

2. I don’t need to turn on the oven, making it perfect for hot days.

3. This tiramisu recipe is make-ahead friendly, which means I can enjoy it WHENEVER I want.

Let’s start?!?

Authentic Italian Tiramisu Recipe

Read on to find out more about the ingredients you need to make Italian tiramisu. 

Easy-peasy!

Ingredients (8 servings):

• 300g ladyfinger biscuits (savoiardi)
• 500g mascarpone cheese
• 4 large egg yolks
• 100g sugar
• 250ml strong espresso, cooled
• 3 tbsp coffee liqueur (optional)
• 200ml heavy cream (cold)
• Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)
• A pinch of salt

Easy Step-by-Step:

Step 1: Make the mascarpone cream

Fisrt of all, whisk the egg yolks and sugar in a bowl until they form a thick and pale mixture.

Gently fold in the mascarpone until it is smooth.

In another bowl, beat the cold heavy cream with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form.

The next thing is to fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture.

Step 2: Prepare the coffee mixture

Now we need to prepare the coffee mixture, it’s very easy! Do this by mixing the cold espresso with coffee liqueur (if you are using) in a shallow dish. 

Step 3: Assemble the tiramisu

Dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture, but be careful, don’t oversoak!

Layer them at the bottom of a glass or a ceramic dish.

Then, spread half of the mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers.

Repeat this with another layer using the remaining cream.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Once everything is done, cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours.

Dust with unsweetened cocoa powder and then serve.

Tips for Perfectly Soaked Ladyfingers

Be careful to not oversoak your ladyfingers because they soak up a lot of liquid. If they stay too long in the coffee, it affects their texture and structure.

• Gently dip each ladyfinger into your coffee for 1-2 seconds. 
• Do a quick flip to quickly coat the other side. Never leave them submerged.
• I only dip a few at a time. It prevents them from getting mushy. (This is applicable when you are making large batches.)

Substitutions and Variations You Can (and Should!) Try

Try out these substitutions and variations. They help you to spice things up and not settle for bland, boring flavors. 

Alcohol-Free Version: Take out coffee liqueur (if using) and replace with milk, coffee, or vanilla extract. 

Egg-Free Version: Take out the egg yolks for a lighter, no-cook version. 

Strawberry Tiramisu: If you love strawberry-flavored tiramisu, dip your ladyfingers into strawberry juice rather than coffee. You can also add fresh strawberries between the layers. Sometimes, I top with extra strawberries as well. 

How Long Should Tiramisu Chill in the Fridge?

The longer it stays in the fridge, the better. Ideally, 6 hours is good enough. However, if you let it stay overnight for about 12 hours, your tiramisu will come out firm with the flavors properly assimilated! 

Italian tiramisu with mascarpone and espresso is a one-treat-fits-all dessert. Both kids and adults would enjoy every bite. This recipe has worked for me over the years. By following the step-by-step process, you would ALWAYS make the best, well-flavored snack without much fuss.

Have fun cooking!