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–+ servings
Tiramisu aesthetic of classic on a white plate, showcasing delicate layers of mascarpone cream and cocoa powder, paired with a vintage fork. Perfectly presented for a refined dessert experience.

Simple Tiramisu

A creamy, indulgent dessert made with layers of mascarpone, coffee-soaked ladyfingers, and a cocoa powder finish.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 5 hours
Total Time 5 hours 40 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Filling
  • 6 large egg yolks adds richness and body to the custard
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar sweetens the custard
  • ⅔ cup whole milk adds creaminess to the custard
  • 1 lb mascarpone cheese or full-fat block cream cheese softened (classic for tiramisu's flavor)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste enhances the flavor
  • 1 ¼ cups cold heavy whipping cream used for the whipped cream filling
  • Ladyfingers
  • 2 packages ladyfingers 7 oz package contains about 24; total 48
  • 1 ½ cups strong coffee or espresso use freshly brewed or instant espresso powder
  • ¼ cup Kahlua optional, adds flavor and depth; can substitute other liqueurs
  • Decoration
  • 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder to dust over the top

Equipment

  • 1 Electric mixer Can use hand or stand mixer.
  • 1 Medium-Sized Saucepan For making the custard.
  • 1 Baking Dish (8x11 or 9x13) For assembling the dessert.
  • 1 Small Strainer or Sifter To dust cocoa powder evenly across the top.

Method
 

  1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, and milk. Heat over medium and cook for about 8-10 minutes until thickened, stirring constantly. The custard should coat the back of a spoon.
  2. Transfer the custard to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap directly on the surface of the custard, and refrigerate until fully cooled.
  3. Prepare the coffee or espresso, ensuring it's double strength. Let it cool to room temperature.
  4. In a bowl, beat the mascarpone (or cream cheese) with an electric mixer until smooth for about 1 minute.
  5. Add vanilla and the cooled custard to the mascarpone and beat for another 1-2 minutes until fully combined.
  6. In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy cream with an electric mixer until soft, fluffy peaks form, about 3-4 minutes.
  7. Carefully fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture with a spatula until well combined.
  8. In your pan, arrange ladyfingers in a single layer. Dip each one quickly into the cooled coffee-Kahlua mixture. Be sure not to soak them too long to avoid sogginess.
  9. Spread ⅓ of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers.
  10. Repeat the layering process twice more, alternating between coffee-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone mixture, finishing with the last layer of mascarpone filling.
  11. For the top layer, use a spatula to swirl the filling decoratively.
  12. Refrigerate the tiramisu for at least 4 hours. Before serving, use a sifter to evenly dust cocoa powder over the top.

Nutrition

Serving: 100gCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 4gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 90mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 20gVitamin A: 400IUCalcium: 90mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Prepare the tiramisu a day ahead to allow flavors to meld and make the day of serving stress-free.

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