Indulge in this easy tiramisu recipe, a classic Italian dessert made with rich mascarpone, layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, and a hint of Amaretto and Kahlua. Perfect for dinner parties or special occasions, this no-bake dessert is simple to prepare yet irresistibly elegant. With tips for achieving the perfect creamy texture, variations like non-alcoholic or gluten-free options, and serving suggestions, this tiramisu is a crowd-pleaser. Ready in advance, it’s the ideal make-ahead dessert that gets better overnight. Learn how to create this indulgent treat that’s guaranteed to impress!

Ingredients
- 9 large egg yolks (160 grams)
- 1/2 cup (99g) granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup (74ml) Amaretto liqueur
- 16 ounces (460g) mascarpone, at room temperature
- 2 and 1/4 cups (511ml) cold heavy whipping cream
- 2 Tablespoons (22g) confectioners’ sugar
- 2 cups (454ml) freshly brewed strong coffee
- 1 ounce (28g) dark chocolate
- 1/3 cup (28g) Dutch-process cocoa powder, plus more for dusting
- 1/4 cup (68ml) Kahlua liqueur
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 48 hard ladyfingers
Instructions
- Prepare the Egg Mixture: Place a large heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water, ensuring the bowl fits snugly and the bottom doesn’t touch the water. Add the egg yolks and granulated sugar to the bowl. Whisk together until well combined. Add the Amaretto and continue whisking for about 10 minutes, until the mixture thickens and nearly doubles in volume. Remove from heat and stir in the mascarpone, a little at a time, until smooth and fully combined. Set aside.
- Whip the Cream: In a chilled bowl, use a handheld electric mixer to whip the heavy whipping cream and confectioners’ sugar on medium speed. Whip until medium-soft peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture, stirring until fully incorporated.
- Make the Coffee Mixture: In a small saucepan, combine the hot coffee, dark chocolate, and cocoa powder. Whisk until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth. Stir in the Kahlua and vanilla extract. Allow to cool for 5 minutes.
- Assemble the Tiramisu: Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture, being careful not to over-soak them, as they can become soggy. Arrange a single layer of dipped ladyfingers on the bottom of your serving dish. Spread half of the mascarpone cream mixture over the ladyfingers and smooth the top with a spatula. Repeat with a second layer of dipped ladyfingers, followed by the remaining mascarpone cream.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the tiramisu and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, or up to 24 hours, to allow the flavors to meld. Before serving, dust the top generously with cocoa powder. Enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Authentic Italian Flavor: Captures the rich, creamy taste of traditional tiramisu.
- Easy to Make: Straightforward instructions make this recipe approachable for beginners.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for dinner parties, holidays, or a special treat at home.
- Make-Ahead Dessert: Preparing it ahead of time allows the flavors to develop beautifully.

Tips
- Room Temperature Mascarpone: Ensure the mascarpone is at room temperature to blend smoothly with the egg mixture.
- Whisking the Yolks: Whisk continuously over simmering water to avoid scrambling the eggs.
- Quick Dipping: Dip the ladyfingers briefly to prevent them from becoming too soggy.
- Chilling Time: Allow the tiramisu to chill for at least 8 hours for the best flavor and texture.
Variations and Substitutions
- Non-Alcoholic Version: Replace Amaretto and Kahlua with extra coffee or coffee syrup for an alcohol-free tiramisu.
- Chocolate Lovers: Add a layer of grated chocolate between the mascarpone layers for extra richness.
- Fruit Twist: Incorporate fresh raspberries or strawberries between the layers for a fruity variation.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free ladyfingers to make this dessert celiac-friendly.
FAQs
Can I Make Tiramisu Without Raw Eggs?
Yes! You can substitute the egg mixture with whipped cream and additional mascarpone for a no-egg version.
What Type of Coffee Should I Use?
Use freshly brewed strong coffee, like espresso or a bold French press brew, for the best flavor.
How Long Does Tiramisu Last?
Tiramisu can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, tightly covered.
Serving Suggestions
- Toppings: Dust with cocoa powder or garnish with chocolate shavings for an elegant presentation.
- Pairings: Serve with a cup of espresso or a dessert wine like Marsala.
- Portions: Cut into squares for individual servings or scoop into bowls for a rustic look.
Enjoy this Easy Tiramisu Recipe—a luxurious dessert that never fails to impress!
Easy Tiramisu Recipe
9
servings8
minutesIngredients
9 large egg yolks (160 grams)
1/2 cup (99g) granulated sugar
1/3 cup (74ml) Amaretto liqueur
16 ounces (460g) mascarpone, at room temperature
2 and 1/4 cups (511ml) cold heavy whipping cream
2 Tablespoons (22g) confectioners’ sugar
2 cups (454ml) freshly brewed strong coffee
1 ounce (28g) dark chocolate
1/3 cup (28g) Dutch-process cocoa powder, plus more for dusting
1/4 cup (68ml) Kahlua liqueur
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
48 hard ladyfingers
Directions
- Prepare the Egg Mixture: Place a large heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water, ensuring the bowl fits snugly and the bottom doesn’t touch the water. Add the egg yolks and granulated sugar to the bowl. Whisk together until well combined. Add the Amaretto and continue whisking for about 10 minutes, until the mixture thickens and nearly doubles in volume. Remove from heat and stir in the mascarpone, a little at a time, until smooth and fully combined. Set aside.
- Whip the Cream: In a chilled bowl, use a handheld electric mixer to whip the heavy whipping cream and confectioners’ sugar on medium speed. Whip until medium-soft peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture, stirring until fully incorporated.
- Make the Coffee Mixture: In a small saucepan, combine the hot coffee, dark chocolate, and cocoa powder. Whisk until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth. Stir in the Kahlua and vanilla extract. Allow to cool for 5 minutes.
- Assemble the Tiramisu: Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture, being careful not to over-soak them, as they can become soggy. Arrange a single layer of dipped ladyfingers on the bottom of your serving dish. Spread half of the mascarpone cream mixture over the ladyfingers and smooth the top with a spatula. Repeat with a second layer of dipped ladyfingers, followed by the remaining mascarpone cream.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the tiramisu and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, or up to 24 hours, to allow the flavors to meld. Before serving, dust the top generously with cocoa powder. Enjoy!

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