This Italian classic layers espresso-soaked ladyfingers (savoiardi) with a lush mascarpone cream, all dusted with a generous cloud of bittersweet cocoa powder . It’s a balance of bold coffee, creamy sweetness, and delicate texture—no baking required.
Yields 8 Servings Servings Quarter (2 Servings) Half (4 Servings) Default (8 Servings) Double (16 Servings) Triple (24 Servings) Prep Time 30 minsTotal Time 30 mins
For the Espresso Dip
1 ½ cups brewed espresso or very strong coffee, cooled
2 tbsp coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa) or dark rum (optional)
2 tbsp sugar (optional, for slightly sweet soak)
For the Cream Layer
6 large egg yolks
¾ cup granulated sugar
16 oz mascarpone cheese, chilled
1 ½ cups heavy cream, cold
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
For Assembly
1 package ladyfinger biscuits (approx. 7 oz or 200 g)
Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
Optional garnish: shaved dark chocolate or chocolate curls
Make the Mascarpone Cream
1 Option A (Traditional – Raw Egg Yolks):
In a mixing bowl, whisk together egg yolks and sugar until thick, pale, and ribbon-like (use a hand or stand mixer for ease).
Add mascarpone and beat until smooth.
Option B (Cooked Egg Yolks – Zabaglione Style):
Combine yolks and sugar in a heatproof bowl over a simmering pot of water.
Whisk constantly for ~8 minutes until thick and foamy.
Remove, cool slightly, then beat in mascarpone.
Whip the Cream
2
In a separate chilled bowl, whip heavy cream , vanilla , and a pinch of salt until soft peaks form.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture in 2–3 additions until fully incorporated and airy.
Soak the Ladyfingers
3
Combine espresso and coffee liqueur in a shallow dish.
Dip each ladyfinger briefly (about 1–2 seconds per side)—do not over-soak —and layer into a 9x13-inch (or similarly sized) dish.
Assemble
4
Add a layer of espresso-dipped ladyfingers to the bottom of the dish.
Spread half the mascarpone cream over the top, smoothing evenly.
Repeat with a second layer of soaked ladyfingers, then top with remaining cream.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours (preferably overnight).
Finish
5
Just before serving, dust generously with unsweetened cocoa powder using a fine sieve.
Garnish with chocolate shavings or curls if desired.
Tips for Success
6
Use fresh mascarpone , not cream cheese—it makes all the difference in texture.
For clean layers, chill thoroughly before cutting.
Don’t oversoak the ladyfingers—they’ll turn mushy. A quick dunk is perfect.
Variations:
7
Swap espresso for decaf or chai tea for a caffeine-free twist.
Use flavored liqueurs (like Amaretto or Baileys) for unique flavor profiles.
Make mini tiramisus in individual cups or jars for a fun presentation.
Suggested Pairings
8
Serve with espresso, dessert wine (Vin Santo or Marsala), or affogato
Ideal for elegant dinners, special occasions, or whenever you need a creamy indulgence
Ingredients For the Espresso Dip
1 ½ cups brewed espresso or very strong coffee, cooled
2 tbsp coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa) or dark rum (optional)
2 tbsp sugar (optional, for slightly sweet soak)
For the Cream Layer
6 large egg yolks
¾ cup granulated sugar
16 oz mascarpone cheese, chilled
1 ½ cups heavy cream, cold
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
For Assembly
1 package ladyfinger biscuits (approx. 7 oz or 200 g)
Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
Optional garnish: shaved dark chocolate or chocolate curls
Directions Make the Mascarpone Cream
1 Option A (Traditional – Raw Egg Yolks):
In a mixing bowl, whisk together egg yolks and sugar until thick, pale, and ribbon-like (use a hand or stand mixer for ease).
Add mascarpone and beat until smooth.
Option B (Cooked Egg Yolks – Zabaglione Style):
Combine yolks and sugar in a heatproof bowl over a simmering pot of water.
Whisk constantly for ~8 minutes until thick and foamy.
Remove, cool slightly, then beat in mascarpone.
Whip the Cream
2
In a separate chilled bowl, whip heavy cream , vanilla , and a pinch of salt until soft peaks form.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture in 2–3 additions until fully incorporated and airy.
Soak the Ladyfingers
3
Combine espresso and coffee liqueur in a shallow dish.
Dip each ladyfinger briefly (about 1–2 seconds per side)—do not over-soak —and layer into a 9x13-inch (or similarly sized) dish.
Assemble
4
Add a layer of espresso-dipped ladyfingers to the bottom of the dish.
Spread half the mascarpone cream over the top, smoothing evenly.
Repeat with a second layer of soaked ladyfingers, then top with remaining cream.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours (preferably overnight).
Finish
5
Just before serving, dust generously with unsweetened cocoa powder using a fine sieve.
Garnish with chocolate shavings or curls if desired.
Tips for Success
6
Use fresh mascarpone , not cream cheese—it makes all the difference in texture.
For clean layers, chill thoroughly before cutting.
Don’t oversoak the ladyfingers—they’ll turn mushy. A quick dunk is perfect.
Variations:
7
Swap espresso for decaf or chai tea for a caffeine-free twist.
Use flavored liqueurs (like Amaretto or Baileys) for unique flavor profiles.
Make mini tiramisus in individual cups or jars for a fun presentation.
Suggested Pairings
8
Serve with espresso, dessert wine (Vin Santo or Marsala), or affogato
Ideal for elegant dinners, special occasions, or whenever you need a creamy indulgence
Classic Tiramisu with Espresso-Soaked Ladyfingers
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