Tiramisù Classico
The classic no-bake layered dessert of espresso-soaked savoiardi and mascarpone cream.
Tiramisù comes from the Veneto and means 'pick me up,' a nod to the espresso. It is a no-bake dessert that needs time to set, so make it a day ahead.
The detail that matters: dip the savoiardi in coffee quickly. A soaked ladyfinger turns to mush.
By Lucia Moretti
More desserts to cook next: Spaghetti alla Carbonara, Ribollita, Caponata Siciliana.
Step by step
These photos follow the method in order, from the first prep step to the plated dish.
Where It Goes Wrong
Soggy, collapsing layers Dip for only one second per side
| Symptom | Cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Soggy, collapsing layers | Ladyfingers soaked too long | Dip for only one second per side |
| Runny cream | Mascarpone overmixed or warm | Fold gently with cool mascarpone until just smooth |
| Raw-egg worry | Yolks not heated | Cook the yolk-and-sugar base to 160°F (71°C) over a water bath |
| Bitter, wet top | Cocoa added too early | Dust with cocoa only right before serving |
Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- 1
Whisk the egg yolks and sugar over a pan of barely simmering water until pale, thick, and hot to the touch (about 160°F / 71°C) to make a safe zabaglione.
- 2
Take the bowl off the heat and let it cool slightly, then fold in the mascarpone until smooth.
- 3
Pour the cooled espresso into a shallow dish.
- 4
Dip each savoiardo in the espresso for one second per side, then lay a single layer in the dish.
- 5
Spread half the mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers.
- 6
Repeat with a second layer of dipped savoiardi and the rest of the cream.
- 7
Cover and refrigerate at least 6 hours, ideally overnight, then dust with cocoa just before serving.
FAQ
Is the egg safe? Yes, if you cook the yolk-and-sugar base to 160°F (71°C) over a water bath, as in step 1.
Is the egg safe?
Yes, if you cook the yolk-and-sugar base to 160°F (71°C) over a water bath, as in step 1.
Can I make it alcohol-free?
Yes. This version uses only espresso, so it is already alcohol-free.
How far ahead can I make it?
Up to 2 days ahead. It needs at least 6 hours to set.
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