Classic Tiramisu Cake Recipe

Introduction

Tiramisu is a classic Italian dessert known for its creamy texture and rich coffee flavor. This easy-to-make recipe combines layers of mascarpone custard and coffee-soaked ladyfingers to create an indulgent treat perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 6 egg yolks
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 2/3 cup milk
• 1 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 pound mascarpone or ricotta cheese
• 7 oz ladyfingers
• 1.5 cups strong coffee
• 2-4 tbsp rum, to taste
• A bar or a few squares of dark chocolate

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a saucepan, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, and milk. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly until the mixture begins to bubble. Continue cooking for an additional minute, then remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes.
2. Step 2: Cover the custard mixture and refrigerate for at least one hour to chill.
3. Step 3: While the custard chills, whip the heavy cream and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
4. Step 4: Combine the coffee and rum in a shallow bowl. Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the mixture, then line the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan with the soaked ladyfingers.
5. Step 5: Lightly whisk the chilled custard mixture with the mascarpone or ricotta cheese, being careful not to over mix.
6. Step 6: Spread the custard evenly over the ladyfinger layer, then top with the whipped cream.
7. Step 7: Grate dark chocolate over the entire top of the tiramisu.
8. Step 8: Cover and refrigerate for several hours before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Tips & Variations

• For a taller, two-layer tiramisu, split the ladyfingers, custard, and whipped cream evenly and layer them in a smaller pan such as 7×11 inches.
• Use freshly brewed espresso instead of regular coffee for a stronger coffee flavor.
• Substitute rum with coffee liqueur or Marsala wine for a different twist.
• Carefully remove the custard from the heat to prevent curdling and ensure smooth texture.

Storage

Store tiramisu in the refrigerator covered with plastic wrap or an airtight lid. It keeps well for up to 3 days. For best texture and flavor, consume within this time. When ready to serve, you can let it sit briefly at room temperature or serve chilled.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought whipped cream?

Freshly whipped cream is recommended for the best texture and flavor, but store-bought whipped cream can be used in a pinch.

Is it safe to use raw eggs in the custard?

This recipe cooks the egg yolks gently over heat, reducing any risk associated with raw eggs. Ensure the custard reaches a safe temperature during cooking.

Classic Tiramisu Cake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 112 reviews

This classic Italian Tiramisu recipe features layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, rich mascarpone custard, and whipped cream, topped with grated dark chocolate for a perfectly indulgent dessert. It is simple to assemble and requires no baking, making it an ideal make-ahead treat for any occasion.

• Author: Nora
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes (plus chilling time of at least 4 hours)
• Yield: 8–10 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Custard

• 6 egg yolks
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 2/3 cup milk
• 1 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 pound mascarpone OR ricotta cheese

Other Ingredients

• 7 oz ladyfingers
• 1.5 cups strong coffee
• 2–4 tbsp rum, to taste
• a bar or a few squares of dark chocolate

Instructions

1. Prepare custard base: Whisk together egg yolks, sugar, and milk in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly. When the mixture begins to bubble, continue cooking and whisking for one more minute to thicken. Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes.
2. Chill custard: Cover the custard and refrigerate for at least one hour to set and cool thoroughly.
3. Whip cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with vanilla extract until soft peaks form, creating a light and airy texture.
4. Mix coffee and rum: Combine strong coffee with rum to desired strength for soaking the ladyfingers.
5. Assemble base layer: Quickly dip ladyfingers into the coffee-rum mixture without soaking them too long to avoid sogginess. Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers evenly in a 9×13 inch pan.
6. Mix custard and cheese: Once the custard has cooled, gently whisk it with the mascarpone or ricotta cheese until smooth, being careful not to overmix.
7. Layer custard and cream: Spread the custard-cheese mixture evenly over the ladyfinger layer. Then top with the whipped cream, spreading it gently to create a smooth top layer.
8. Add chocolate topping: Grate dark chocolate over the entire surface of the whipped cream to add richness and texture.
9. Chill and serve: Cover the assembled tiramisu and refrigerate for several hours, preferably overnight, to allow flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly before serving.
10. Enjoy: Slice and serve this decadent no-bake tiramisu chilled, perfect as an elegant dessert for any occasion.

Notes

• The tiramisu can be made as a single-layer dessert in a 9×13 pan or as a taller two-layer cake using a smaller pan by splitting the ingredients accordingly.
• Use freshly brewed strong coffee and adjust the rum quantity to preference for an authentic flavor.
• Be careful not to over-soak the ladyfingers to maintain a pleasant texture.
• For a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the rum and increase coffee quantity slightly.
• Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but preferably overnight, for the best taste and texture.

Keywords: Tiramisu, Italian dessert, no bake dessert, coffee dessert, mascarpone dessert, layered dessert