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Traditional Italian Tiramisu – A Creamy, Authentic Classic

Rich, creamy, and delicately infused with coffee, Traditional Italian Tiramisu is one of the most beloved desserts around the world. This no-bake masterpiece layers espresso-soaked ladyfingers with a luscious mascarpone cream, finished with a dusting of cocoa powder for that classic touch. Light yet indulgent, it's the ultimate end to any Italian meal — and easier to make than you might think!
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Chill Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 10 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Refrigerated:
  • 4 egg yolks
  • 1 ½ cups heavy cream
  • 450 g mascarpone cheese about 16 oz
Baking & Spices:
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder plus more for dusting
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
Snacks:
  • 30 ladyfingers Savoiardi biscuits
  • Drinks:
  • 1 ½ cups strong black coffee cooled

Equipment

  • Electric mixer (hand or stand)
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • 9x9 or 9x13 inch dish
  • Sifter (for cocoa dusting)
  • Spatula

Method
 

Make the Egg Yolks Base:
  1. In a heatproof bowl over a double boiler (or very low heat), whisk egg yolks and sugar constantly until the mixture becomes pale, thick, and slightly warm. Remove from heat and set aside.
Whip the Cream:
  1. In a separate bowl, beat the heavy cream with a pinch of salt and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
Blend the Mascarpone:
  1. Gently fold the mascarpone cheese into the whipped egg yolk mixture until smooth. Then fold in the whipped cream gently, trying not to deflate the mixture.
Prepare the Coffee:
  1. Pour the cooled strong coffee into a shallow bowl. Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee — just 1–2 seconds per side (don't soak!).
Assemble the Tiramisu:
  1. Arrange a layer of dipped ladyfingers at the bottom of your dish.
  2. Spread half of the mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers.
  3. Repeat with another layer of coffee-dipped ladyfingers.
  4. Top with the remaining mascarpone cream.
Chill:
  1. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to set and develop flavors.
Dust with Cocoa:
  1. Right before serving, sift cocoa powder generously over the top. Slice and enjoy!

Notes

🔁 Variations
Boozy Tiramisu: Add a splash of coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa) or Marsala wine to the coffee.
Chocolate Lover's Twist: Add a layer of shaved dark chocolate between cream layers.
Berry Tiramisu: Layer in fresh raspberries or strawberries for a fruity version.
🧊 Storage Tips
Fridge: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Freeze well-wrapped tiramisu for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make tiramisu without raw eggs?
Yes — in this version, the egg yolks are gently cooked to food-safe temperatures over a double boiler.
Can I use espresso instead of coffee?
Definitely! Espresso gives a deeper, more authentic Italian flavor.
Why mascarpone cheese?
Mascarpone gives tiramisu its signature creamy richness and slightly sweet flavor — don’t substitute with cream cheese!