The Creamiest Tiramisu You’ll Ever Make

If you love rich, creamy desserts paired with the bold, comforting flavor of coffee, then this classic tiramisu recipe is made just for you. Originating from Italy, tiramisu has become a beloved dessert worldwide — known for its luscious mascarpone cream layered over espresso-soaked ladyfingers. The silky smooth texture and perfect balance of sweetness with a hint of coffee bitterness make this dessert absolutely irresistible.

Tiramisu is more than just a treat — it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that come together effortlessly without needing an oven. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party, making it for a special occasion, or simply craving something sweet after a long day, this no-bake delight will impress and satisfy every time.

Why You’ll Love This Classic Tiramisu

• Silky, Creamy Mascarpone Filling — the rich mascarpone mixed with whipped cream creates a dreamy, velvety texture that melts in your mouth.
• Bold Coffee Flavor — soaked ladyfingers infused with strong brewed coffee or espresso give each bite that unmistakable robust coffee aroma.
• Simple, No-Bake Recipe — no oven needed! The dessert assembles quickly and refrigerates to perfection.
• Light and Airy Texture — whipped cream and gently folded mascarpone lighten the filling so it’s indulgent but not heavy.
• Versatile and Elegant — suitable for casual family dinners or upscale entertaining, tiramisu always feels special.
• Customizable — easily adapted with different liqueurs, cocoa toppings, or even fresh fruit additions.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Egg Yolks — provide the base for the creamy custard, whisked gently with sugar over heat to thicken and develop flavor.
• Sugar — sweetens the filling perfectly, balancing the bitterness of coffee without being overpowering.
• Mascarpone — the star ingredient that adds richness and smoothness to the dessert’s signature creamy texture.
• Whipping Cream — whipped to soft peaks to lighten the mascarpone mixture, creating a fluffy and airy consistency.
• Vanilla Bean Paste — adds warm, fragrant vanilla notes to enhance the flavor complexity.
• Condensed Milk — contributes additional sweetness and creaminess for a luscious filling.
• Strong Brewed Coffee — espresso or strong coffee, cooled, is essential for soaking the ladyfingers and infusing the dessert with coffee flavor.
• Ladyfingers (Savoiardi) — light, crisp sponge biscuits that soak up the coffee perfectly without falling apart.

Essential Tools You’ll Need

• Double Boiler or Heatproof Bowl and Pot — perfect for gently whisking egg yolks and sugar over simmering water to avoid curdling or scrambling.
• Electric Mixer or Whisk — helps whip the cream to soft peaks and combine ingredients smoothly for the ideal texture.
• Shallow Dish — used to dip ladyfingers evenly into the coffee without oversaturating.
• Serving Dish or Individual Glasses — to layer and showcase your tiramisu beautifully. Glasses make for elegant single servings.
• Spatula — for folding the whipped cream into the mascarpone custard gently and spreading layers evenly.

Full Recipe

For the Mascarpone Cream:

• 4 egg yolks
• ½ cup sugar
• 500g mascarpone (room temperature)
• 200g whipping cream
• 1 tsp vanilla bean paste
• 2 tbsp condensed milk

For the Layers:

• Strong brewed coffee (enough to soak ladyfingers)
• Ladyfingers (Savoiardi)

Directions

1. Whisk the Egg Yolks and Sugar

Set up a double boiler by placing a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water, making sure the bowl doesn’t touch the water. Whisk together 4 egg yolks and ½ cup sugar vigorously until the mixture becomes pale, thick, and creamy — this usually takes about 8-10 minutes. This process cooks the yolks gently, creating a safe and flavorful base for the filling. Keep whisking constantly to avoid curdling or scrambling.

2. Mix in the Mascarpone

Remove the bowl from the heat and let the custard cool slightly. Add 500g of room temperature mascarpone to the yolk mixture. Gently fold and mix until the mascarpone is completely incorporated and the mixture is smooth. Avoid overmixing to keep the texture light and creamy.

3. Whip the Cream

In a clean mixing bowl, whip 200g of heavy cream with 1 tsp vanilla bean paste until soft peaks form. This means when you lift the whisk, the cream holds gentle peaks but is still smooth and fluffy. Soft peaks help lighten the mascarpone filling.

4. Add Condensed Milk and Fold

Add 2 tablespoons of condensed milk to the whipped cream and fold gently to combine. Then, carefully fold the whipped cream mixture into the mascarpone custard, mixing until fully blended but still light and airy.

5. Prepare the Coffee

Brew a strong pot of coffee or espresso and let it cool completely to room temperature. Pour the cooled coffee into a shallow dish wide enough for soaking ladyfingers quickly and evenly.

6. Assemble the Layers

Dip each ladyfinger into the coffee for about 1 second — just enough to soak but not become soggy. Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers in your serving dish or individual glasses.

7. Add the Mascarpone Cream

Spread half of the mascarpone cream mixture evenly over the ladyfingers, smoothing the surface with a spatula.

8. Repeat Layers

Add another layer of coffee-soaked ladyfingers on top of the cream, then spread the remaining mascarpone cream over this second layer. Smooth the top with the spatula for a clean finish.

9. Chill and Serve

Cover the tiramisu with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, though overnight is best. This chilling time lets the flavors meld beautifully and the dessert to set to the perfect creamy texture.

Before serving, dust the top generously with unsweetened cocoa powder or sprinkle with finely grated dark chocolate for extra richness.

Baking Tips for Perfect Tiramisu

• Use room temperature mascarpone for easier mixing and a smooth filling. Cold mascarpone can be lumpy.
• Don’t soak ladyfingers too long — a quick dip keeps them firm enough to hold structure while absorbing coffee flavor.
• Whip cream to soft peaks — overwhipped cream can become grainy or stiff, which affects the texture.
• Fold mixtures gently but thoroughly to maintain airiness without deflating the cream.
• For an adult twist, add a splash of coffee liqueur like Kahlúa or Marsala wine to the coffee soak or mascarpone mixture.
• Use high-quality espresso or strong coffee for the best flavor impact.
• Dust cocoa powder just before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant.

How to Store and Freeze Your Tiramisu

• Store your tiramisu covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will intensify as it chills.
• For longer storage, tiramisu freezes well for up to 1 month. Freeze it uncovered for a few hours first, then wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil to avoid freezer burn.
• To thaw, transfer to the fridge and allow to thaw overnight before serving. Avoid microwaving, as it can affect texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve tiramisu chilled on its own or with a dusting of cocoa and a few chocolate shavings.
• Pair it with a small cup of espresso or coffee for the ultimate indulgent experience.
• For a fresh twist, garnish with fresh berries or a sprig of mint.
• This dessert also works wonderfully in individual glasses for elegant presentation.

Enjoy!