Hey y’all! If you’re looking for a dessert that’s creamy, dreamy, and downright irresistible, you have to try this Easy Tiramisu recipe. It’s the perfect make-ahead treat for dinner parties, family gatherings, or just when you need something sweet and impressive without spending hours in the kitchen. With luscious layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and airy mascarpone cream, this classic Italian favorite is sure to become your go-to crowd-pleaser. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Easy Tiramisu
- Quick to make with no baking required—just chill and serve!
- Rich, creamy layers with delightful coffee flavor and a hint of cocoa.
- Perfect for making ahead, so you can prep it the night before your event.
- Customizable with your favorite liqueur or simple non-alcoholic swaps.
- Impresses guests while keeping things easy for you!
Ingredients for Easy Tiramisu
- 24 ladyfingers (savoiardi)
- 1 cup (240ml) freshly brewed strong espresso or coffee, cooled
- 3 tablespoons coffee liqueur (such as Kahlúa), optional
- 2 cups (475g) mascarpone cheese, room temperature
- 3 large eggs, separated
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar, divided
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream, cold
- Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
How to Make Easy Tiramisu: Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Coffee Mixture
In a shallow bowl, combine the cooled espresso and coffee liqueur. Set aside.
Step 2: Whip the Egg Yolks and Sugar
In a medium bowl, beat the egg yolks with 2/3 cup powdered sugar until thick and pale (about 2-3 minutes). Add the mascarpone and vanilla, mixing until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Whip the Egg Whites
In a separate clean bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add the remaining 1/3 cup powdered sugar and beat until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the mascarpone mixture.
Step 4: Whip the Cream
In another bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully incorporated.
Step 5: Assemble the Easy Tiramisu
Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the espresso mixture (don’t soak—just a second or two) and line them in a single layer at the bottom of a 9×9-inch (23x23cm) dish. Spread half of the mascarpone cream evenly over the ladyfingers. Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and top with the remaining cream.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results. Just before serving, dust the top generously with unsweetened cocoa powder. Slice, serve, and enjoy!
Easy Tiramisu Notes & Tips
- For food safety information on raw eggs, check out the CDC’s egg safety tips.
- If you can’t find ladyfingers, try making your own or use sponge cake cut into strips—see this ladyfingers recipe.
- Use cold cream and room temperature mascarpone for the smoothest texture.
Easy Tiramisu Variations
- Alcohol-Free: Skip the liqueur and use extra coffee or a splash of vanilla.
- Chocolate Lover’s: Add grated dark chocolate between the layers for extra richness.
- Berry Tiramisu: Layer in fresh raspberries or strawberries for a fruity twist.
Equipment Needed for Easy Tiramisu
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- 9×9-inch (23x23cm) baking dish
- Spatula
- Fine mesh sieve (for dusting cocoa powder)
Easy Tiramisu Storage & Shelf Life
Store your tiramisu tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best flavor and texture, enjoy it within 24-48 hours. Freezing is not recommended, as it can alter the creamy texture.
Easy Tiramisu Serving Suggestions & Pairings
- Serve chilled with a strong cup of espresso or cappuccino.
- Pair with a dessert wine like Vin Santo or a shot of amaretto.
- Top with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for added flair.
Pro Tips for the Best Easy Tiramisu
- Don’t over-soak the ladyfingers—just a quick dip keeps them from getting mushy.
- Use high-quality mascarpone for the creamiest results—learn more about mascarpone cheese here.
- Chill overnight for the best flavor; this lets the flavors meld beautifully.
Easy Tiramisu FAQ
- Can I make Easy Tiramisu without alcohol?
- Absolutely! Just replace the liqueur with extra coffee or vanilla extract.
- Can I use cream cheese instead of mascarpone?
- Yes, but mascarpone gives a richer, more authentic flavor. If substituting, use a full-fat, softened cream cheese.
- Is it safe to eat raw eggs in tiramisu?
- If concerned about raw eggs, use pasteurized eggs or look for egg-free tiramisu recipes, and check the CDC egg safety guidelines.
Ingredients
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
- 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)
- 16 ladyfinger cookies
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
Instructions
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1In a shallow bowl, combine the cooled coffee and coffee liqueur (if using).
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2In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream with sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
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3Gently fold the mascarpone cheese into the whipped cream mixture until smooth and well combined.
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4Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture and arrange half of them in a single layer in a serving dish.
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5Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers. Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and the remaining mascarpone mixture.
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6Dust the top with unsweetened cocoa powder. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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