Tiramisu
Tiramisu
My Favorite Italian Treat!
If you ask anyone who knows me what my dessert of choice is for special occasions—whether it’s my birthday or a cozy date night—they’ll tell you it’s tiramisu. With an Italian last name and a lifelong love of pizza, it just makes sense, right? This indulgent dessert holds a special place in my heart.
But here’s the kicker: I take my tiramisu game up a notch by making homemade mascarpone cheese. Yep, no store-bought shortcuts here! The creamy, rich mascarpone is a game-changer for that luscious tiramisu texture. Trust me, it’s easier than you think. I’ve included a quick version of the mascarpone recipe below, but you can check out my full recipe with step-by-step instructions at the end.
For a festive twist, serve it in adorable individual glass jars to add a personal touch, or keep it traditional with a large square dish perfect for sharing. However you serve it, tiramisu will be the highlight of your celebration and a sweet reminder that love—and dessert—makes life better. 💕
Ingredients:
3 large egg yolks
1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
1 cup (225g) mascarpone cheese (homemade or store-bought)
1/2 (120 ml) cups heavy cream (whipped to stiff peaks)
1-2 cups strong brewed espresso (cooled)
3 tablespoons of rum or 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract
1 package ladyfingers (about 24 pieces)
Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)
grated dark chocolate (or cocoa powder for dusting)
For the mascarpone (makes about 1 ½ cups):
2 cups heavy cream (not ultra-pasteurized)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
Prepare the mascarpone mixture:
In a large bowl, use a handheld mixer to beat the egg yolks and sugar until pale yellow, thick, and satiny—about 4 minutes. Gradually fold in the mascarpone cheese until smooth.
Whip the cream:
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks. Gently fold it into the mascarpone mixture, taking care not to deflate it.
Prepare the coffee soak:
Pour the espresso into a shallow bowl. Add rum or vanilla extract, depending on your preference.
Dip the ladyfingers:
Working one at a time, briefly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture, ensuring they’re moistened but not soggy. Arrange a layer of dipped ladyfingers in a 1½-quart (1.5 L) serving dish.
Layer the tiramisu:
Spread half the mascarpone mixture evenly over the first layer of ladyfingers. Repeat the process with the remaining ladyfingers and mascarpone mixture.
Top it off:
Grate a generous shower of dark chocolate over the top. Alternatively, dust with cocoa powder for a more traditional look.
Chill and serve:
Cover and refrigerate the tiramisu for at least several hours, or overnight for best results. Serve chilled, and enjoy every creamy, coffee-flavored bite!
Serving Suggestions
Individual Glass Cups: For an elegant and personal presentation, layer the tiramisu in small glass cups. Guests will love their own perfectly portioned dessert.
Full Pan: Ideal for larger gatherings, preparing tiramisu in a baking dish allows guests to serve themselves, ensuring everyone can indulge as much as they’d like.
Quick Homemade Mascarpone Recipe
This easy mascarpone takes just two ingredients:
Heavy cream: 2 cups (not ultra-pasteurized)
Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon
Heat the cream to 190°F in a saucepan, stirring often.
Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to thicken slightly.
Pour into a cheesecloth-lined sieve and drain in the fridge for 8 hours or overnight.
For step-by-step photos and a video tutorial, check out my full Homemade Mascarpone Recipe here!
There you have it—a dessert that’s as indulgent as it is easy to make. Whether you’re celebrating a special moment or just treating yourself, this tiramisu will always feel like the perfect “pick-me-up.” Buon appetito! 🍴
xx,
mc
