Easy Tiramisu recipe

Tiramisu is a classic Italian dessert that has become a favorite worldwide for its rich, creamy layers and perfect balance of coffee and cocoa flavors. This easy tiramisu recipe simplifies the process while still delivering a deliciously authentic result. You don’t need to bake or spend hours in the kitchen—just a few ingredients and some chilling time to create a decadent dessert.

Total Time: 15 minutes (plus 4 hours chilling time)
Serving Size: 6-8 servings
Difficulty Level: Easy

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Ingredients

• For the Cream Layer:
  • 1 pound (450g) mascarpone cheese (room temperature)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (cold)
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the Coffee Soak:
  • 1 cup strong brewed coffee (cooled to room temperature)
  • 1/4 cup coffee liqueur (optional, like Kahlúa or Marsala wine)
  • 2 tablespoons sugar (optional, if you prefer a sweeter soak)
• For the Tiramisu Assembly:
  • 1 package of ladyfingers (savoiardi biscuits)
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)
  • Dark chocolate shavings (optional for garnish)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cream Layer

1.1 Whip the Heavy Cream

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the cold heavy cream until soft peaks form. This will take about 2-3 minutes on high speed. The cream should be thick and hold its shape but still be light and fluffy.

1.2 Mix the Mascarpone

In a separate bowl, whisk together the mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. If the mascarpone is a bit thick, use a spatula to soften it first.

1.3 Combine the Cream and Mascarpone

Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture. Use a spatula or a whisk, and mix until well combined, being careful not to deflate the whipped cream. You should have a thick, fluffy cream mixture.

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Step 2: Prepare the Coffee Soak

2.1 Brew the Coffee

Brew a fresh cup of strong coffee and allow it to cool to room temperature. If you’re in a hurry, you can use cooled leftover coffee or even instant coffee.

2.2 Add the Liqueur and Sugar

Once the coffee has cooled, stir in the coffee liqueur (optional) and sugar (optional, depending on how sweet you want the soak). Stir until the sugar is dissolved. If you prefer, you can leave out the liqueur and simply sweeten the coffee with sugar to taste.

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Step 3: Assemble the Tiramisu

3.1 Soak the Ladyfingers

Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture, making sure it is moistened but not soaked through. Be careful not to let the ladyfinger sit in the coffee for too long, as it can become soggy and fall apart.

3.2 Layer the Ladyfingers

Arrange a layer of dipped ladyfingers in the bottom of a 9×9-inch (or similarly sized) serving dish. You can also use individual serving cups or glasses for a more elegant presentation.

3.3 Add the Cream Layer

Spoon about half of the mascarpone cream mixture onto the ladyfingers. Spread it evenly with a spatula to cover the layer of cookies completely.

3.4 Repeat the Layers

Repeat the process with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and the remaining mascarpone cream mixture. Smooth the top layer with a spatula.

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Step 4: Chill and Serve

4.1 Chill the Tiramisu

Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate the tiramisu for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight). Chilling allows the flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly.

4.2 Dust with Cocoa Powder

Before serving, dust the top of the tiramisu generously with unsweetened cocoa powder. For an extra touch, garnish with chocolate shavings if desired.

4.3 Serve

Scoop out servings of the tiramisu, making sure to get a little bit of everything from each layer. Serve chilled and enjoy!

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Tips and Notes

1. Mascarpone Cheese: Be sure to use full-fat mascarpone cheese for the creamiest texture. You can find it in the cheese section of most supermarkets. If you can’t find mascarpone, you can substitute with cream cheese, but it will slightly alter the flavor and texture.
2. Coffee Soak: The coffee soak is the key to achieving the classic tiramisu flavor. If you don’t want alcohol in the dessert, simply omit the liqueur. The coffee itself will provide plenty of flavor. You can also experiment with different types of coffee, such as espresso for a more intense coffee flavor.
3. Ladyfingers: Ladyfingers (savoiardi) are traditional for tiramisu, but if you can’t find them, you can use sponge cake or a similar light, airy biscuit. Just be sure the substitute holds up when soaked in the coffee mixture.
4. Make Ahead: Tiramisu is even better the next day! Prepare it the day before you plan to serve it, as the chilling time allows the flavors to develop and the dessert to set.
5. Individual Servings: For a fun twist, try serving tiramisu in individual cups or glasses. Layer the soaked ladyfingers and cream mixture as usual, and top with cocoa powder and chocolate shavings before serving.
6. Customization: Feel free to add your own flair to the recipe. Some variations include adding a layer of melted chocolate between the cream layers or a sprinkling of cocoa nibs for added texture.

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Conclusion

This easy tiramisu recipe is perfect for those who want to enjoy the deliciousness of the classic Italian dessert without spending too much time in the kitchen. With minimal ingredients and a simple assembly process, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing treat in no time. Chilled and creamy, with just the right balance of coffee and cocoa flavors, this tiramisu is sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire!