Description
Classic Tiramisu with Espresso is a richly layered Italian dessert featuring espresso-soaked ladyfingers complemented by a creamy mascarpone mixture. This no-bake treat is perfect for coffee lovers, offering a luscious balance of sweetness, smooth textures, and a dusting of cocoa powder for the perfect finishing touch.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Espresso Mixture
- 1 1/2 cups brewed espresso, cooled
- 3 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)
For the Mascarpone Cream
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Others
- 24 to 30 ladyfingers
- Unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting
- Dark chocolate shavings (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the egg yolk mixture: Whisk the egg yolks and sugar in a heatproof bowl set over simmering water until the mixture is pale, thickened, and slightly warmed. Remove from heat and allow it to cool completely.
- Whip the cream: In a separate bowl, beat the heavy cream until medium peaks form, providing a light and fluffy texture.
- Prepare mascarpone mixture: Whisk the mascarpone cheese in another bowl until smooth. Fold in the vanilla extract and the cooled egg yolk mixture gently to maintain the airy texture.
- Combine mixtures: Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone and egg yolk mixture until fully combined, ensuring a smooth and creamy filling.
- Dip the ladyfingers: In a shallow dish, blend the cooled espresso with coffee liqueur if using. Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the mixture, avoiding soaking them to prevent sogginess.
- Assemble the tiramisu: Arrange a layer of dipped ladyfingers at the bottom of an 8×8 inch dish or similar. Spread half of the mascarpone cream evenly over the ladyfingers. Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and the remaining mascarpone cream.
- Chill and finish: Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight for the best texture and flavor. Before serving, dust the tiramisu with unsweetened cocoa powder and optionally sprinkle dark chocolate shavings on top.
Notes
- For a stronger coffee flavor, use espresso powder mixed into the brewed espresso.
- To make an alcohol-free version, omit the coffee liqueur.
- Tiramisu slices best after chilling overnight to develop flavor and firm texture.
