This easy tiramisu recipe is a perfect homemade version of the classic Italian dessert, minus the raw egg yolks. It’s rich, creamy, and layered with coffee-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cream—a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! No fancy equipment required, and it’s perfect for celebrating special occasions.
Ingredients:
- Heavy whipping cream (1 cup)
- Meringue powder (1 tbsp, optional)
- Granulated white sugar (1/4 cup)
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp)
- Mascarpone cheese (8 oz, softened)
- Espresso (1 cup brewed, or 1 ¼ cups strong coffee)
- Water (optional, to dilute espresso if desired)
- Coffee liqueur (¼ cup, e.g., Kahlua; or rum, marsala wine)
- Ladyfingers (about 20, enough for 2 layers)
- Cocoa powder (for dusting)
Instructions:
- Prepare Cream Filling:
- Beat the heavy cream and meringue powder (if using) with an electric mixer until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add sugar and vanilla extract; continue to beat until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the softened mascarpone into the whipped cream until well combined.
- Prepare Coffee Mixture:
- In a shallow dish, mix espresso, water (if diluting), and coffee liqueur.
- Layer the Tiramisu:
- Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture and arrange in a single layer in an 8×8-inch pan.
- Spread half of the mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers, smoothing it out evenly.
- Add another layer of coffee-dipped ladyfingers on top, followed by the remaining cream layer.
- Chill & Serve:
- Dust the top with cocoa powder.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (up to 2 days) to allow flavors to meld.
Tips & Substitutions:
- Meringue powder: Adds structure but can be omitted if unavailable.
- Mascarpone: Substitute with softened cream cheese if needed.
- Espresso: Substitute with strong brewed coffee or decaf if preferred.
- Coffee liqueur: Use rum or marsala wine for a twist, or skip alcohol by adding extra coffee.
- Ladyfingers: If unavailable, use vanilla wafers and let them soak a little longer.
Bonus Tip: For easy serving, layer the tiramisu in individual ramekins or wine glasses to avoid the challenge of slicing and serving from a large dish.
Enjoy this indulgent no-bake dessert at your next celebration!
