Make the best classic Italian tiramisu without turning on your oven or using raw eggs. This simple, no-bake recipe delivers a silky smooth mascarpone cream and coffee-soaked ladyfingers, perfect for an impressive make-ahead dessert.
Author:ariasterling
Prep Time:30 min
Cook Time:0 min
Total Time:6 hours 30 min
Yield:8 servings 1x
Category:Dessert
Method:No-Bake
Cuisine:Italian
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 1/2 cups strong brewed espresso or coffee, cooled
1/4 cup coffee liqueur or dark rum (optional)
1/2 cup granulated sugar, divided
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract, divided
16 ounces mascarpone cheese, softened to room temperature
Prepare the coffee soak: In a shallow bowl, combine the cooled espresso, coffee liqueur (if using), 2 tablespoons of the sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Set aside.
Make the mascarpone cream: In a large bowl, beat the softened mascarpone cheese, remaining 6 tablespoons of sugar, and remaining 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract with an electric mixer until smooth.
In a separate, clean bowl, whip the cold heavy cream and salt until medium-stiff peaks form.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture in two additions until just combined. Do not overmix. This creates your silky smooth tiramisu filling.
Assemble the dessert: Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture, turning once. Do not let them soak too long or they will become soggy.
Arrange a single layer of the dipped ladyfingers in the bottom of an 8×8 inch baking dish or a similar sized serving dish.
Spread half of the mascarpone cream mixture evenly over the layer of ladyfingers.
Repeat the process: Create a second layer of dipped ladyfingers on top of the cream.
Spread the remaining mascarpone cream over the second layer of ladyfingers, smoothing the top.
Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap. Chill the tiramisu in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.
Before serving, generously dust the top surface with unsweetened cocoa powder using a fine-mesh sieve. Slice and serve this impressive hostess dessert.
Notes
For a richer coffee flavor, use freshly brewed espresso.
If you skip the alcohol, add 1 more teaspoon of vanilla extract to the coffee soak for depth.
Chilling overnight results in the best texture for this make-ahead dessert.