Craving something creamy, rich, and a little bit luxurious?
Say hello to Tiramisu Italy’s most beloved dessert. It’s the kind of dish that makes everyone at the table go quiet after the first bite. And the best part? You don’t need to be a pastry chef to make it at home.

In this guide, you'll get a foolproof tiramisu recipe that’s easy, authentic, and better than anything store-bought.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what goes into the perfect tiramisu:

• 6 egg yolks

• ¾ cup sugar

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 cup mascarpone cheese (room temperature)

• 2 cups strong espresso or dark coffee, cooled

• 2–3 tbsp coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa or optional)

• 1 pack ladyfinger cookies (Savoiardi)

• Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting

• Dark chocolate shavings (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Egg Mixture

In a heatproof bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar. Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler) and whisk until the mixture thickens (about 6–8 minutes). Let it cool.

2. Whip the Cream

Beat the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.

3. Fold in Mascarpone

Once the egg mixture has cooled, gently mix in the mascarpone cheese until smooth. Then fold in the whipped cream. Don’t overmix — you want it airy and light.

4. Dip the Ladyfingers

In a shallow dish, combine the espresso and coffee liqueur. Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the mixture for about 1 second per side. Don’t soak too long — they fall apart easily.

5. Assemble the Layers

• Place a layer of dipped ladyfingers in a 9x9 inch dish.

• Spread half the mascarpone mixture over the top.

• Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers.

• Finish with the remaining cream.

6. Chill

Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight for best flavor.

7. Garnish & Serve

Before serving, dust generously with cocoa powder. Add chocolate shavings if desired. Slice and enjoy!

Tiramisu Tips

• Use real mascarpone for authentic flavor — no substitutions!

• Don’t over-soak ladyfingers — a quick dip is enough.

• Chill longer for a firmer, more flavorful dessert.

• Want it alcohol-free? Just skip the liqueur.

Tiramisu Variations

• Strawberry Tiramisu: Use strawberry syrup instead of coffee and add sliced berries.

• Matcha Tiramisu: Replace espresso with strong matcha and dust with matcha powder.

• Vegan Tiramisu: Use dairy-free cream, coconut whip, and egg substitutes.

How to Store Tiramisu

• Fridge: Keeps fresh for up to 3 days.

• Freezer: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge.

Final Thoughts

This classic tiramisu recipe is the kind of dessert that turns an ordinary evening into something memorable. It’s creamy, coffee-soaked, and just sweet enough — a true Italian masterpiece you can master at home.

So what are you waiting for?
Whip it up, chill it down, and dig into a dessert that never goes out of style.