🍰 Classic Tiramisu Recipe – Creamy, Dreamy, and Easy to Make at Home

Tiramisu is one of those desserts you try once… and keep thinking about forever. It’s soft, creamy, slightly boozy, and just the right kind of sweet. Layered with coffee-soaked ladyfingers and rich mascarpone cream, this Italian no-bake dessert is elegant but surprisingly doable at home.

I used to think tiramisu was complicated. All that layering, mascarpone, espresso, maybe some liqueur? But once you try it, you’ll realize—it’s more of a gentle process than a hard recipe. If you like desserts that feel fancy but don’t take hours of baking, this one’s worth it.

Occasions Made Sweeter with Tiramisu

This tiramisu shines at special gatherings—think birthdays, anniversaries, or dinner parties where you want to impress without stressing in the kitchen. It’s also a favorite during the holidays, making its way onto Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter dessert tables. Even casual occasions like brunch with friends or a weekend family meal can feel a little extra special when you bring out this chilled, creamy Italian treat. And honestly? Sometimes you don’t need an event—just an excuse to enjoy a spoonful of something dreamy with your coffee.

📋 Ingredients You’ll Need

For the mascarpone cream:

• 1 cup heavy cream, cold
• 1 cup mascarpone cheese (room temperature)
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the coffee soak:

• 1 cup strong brewed coffee or espresso (cooled)
• 2 tbsp coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa) – optional

For the layers:

• 1 pack ladyfinger biscuits (savoiardi)
• Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
• Optional: dark chocolate shavings for topping

🧰 Kitchen Tools Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Rubber spatula
• 8×8 or 9×9 inch dish
• Sifter or fine mesh strainer (for dusting cocoa)
• Spoon or small offset spatula (for spreading)

⏱️ Time & Servings

• Prep time: 25 minutes
• Chill time: At least 4 hours (overnight is best)
• Total time: ~4.5 hours (hands-on work is minimal)
• Serves: 6–8 people

🍽️ How to Make Tiramisu (Step-by-Step)

1. Whip the cream:
   In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Set aside.
2. Make the mascarpone filling:
   In a separate bowl, mix mascarpone, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Fold in the whipped cream gently using a spatula—don’t overmix. It should be fluffy.
3. Prepare the coffee soak:
   Combine the brewed coffee and liqueur in a shallow dish. Dip each ladyfinger for 1–2 seconds on each side—don’t soak too long or they’ll fall apart.
4. Layer it up:
   Place a layer of soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of your dish. Spread half the mascarpone mixture on top. Repeat with another layer of soaked ladyfingers, then the rest of the cream.
5. Chill & finish:
   Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours. Right before serving, dust the top with unsweetened cocoa powder and, if you like, add shaved chocolate or a dusting of cinnamon.

📝 Recipe Notes

• Use cold heavy cream for best whipping results.
• Don’t soak the ladyfingers too long—they soften fast.
• You can skip the liqueur if you prefer alcohol-free tiramisu.
• The longer it chills, the better it tastes. Overnight is ideal.
• Want a bolder coffee flavor? Add espresso powder to the cream.

🧊 Storage Tips

• Fridge: Tiramisu stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, covered tightly. The flavor deepens after the first day.
• Freezer: You can freeze tiramisu for up to 1 month. Wrap the dish well with plastic wrap and foil. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

🍫 How to Serve Tiramisu

• Dust with cocoa powder right before serving for a clean finish.
• Add dark chocolate curls, coffee beans, or a drizzle of chocolate syrup for extra flair.
• For individual servings, use small glass cups or ramekins instead of a large dish.

🍴 Extra Tips for a Perfect Tiramisu

• Use mascarpone, not cream cheese. The taste and texture matter.
• Let it rest. Chilling allows the layers to set and flavors to blend.
• If you want super smooth cream, sift your sugar before mixing.
• For a shortcut: some people mix in whipped topping (like Cool Whip), but if you have the time, real whipped cream makes a big difference.

🍮 Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)

Based on 8 servings; varies with portion size and exact ingredients:

• Calories: ~330
• Carbs: 26g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Sugar: 15g
• Caffeine: Minimal from coffee soak
• Sodium: 70mg

🙋‍♀️ Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

Tiramisu is one of those desserts that feels like pure comfort and elegance in every bite. With its layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, fluffy mascarpone cream, and a dusting of cocoa, it’s indulgent yet surprisingly easy to make at home. The best part is how the flavors get even better after resting in the fridge, so it’s one of those rare desserts that actually rewards you for making it ahead of time. Simple ingredients, no baking, and restaurant-quality results—it’s hard not to fall in love with this timeless classic.