Ingredients
Mascarpone Cream
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese, at room temperature
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1½ cups heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup granulated sugar
Assembly
- 1½ cups espresso, cooled slightly
- 2 tablespoons dark rum or liqueur of choice, such as amaretto (optional)
- 24 to 30 dry savoiardi ladyfingers, exact number will depend on your baking dish
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder, for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare mascarpone mixture: In a large bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy, setting the base for your tiramisu cream.
- Whip cream and sugar: In another large bowl, use an electric mixer on medium speed to beat the heavy whipping cream and granulated sugar for 5 to 8 minutes, until soft to medium peaks form, creating a light, fluffy texture.
- Fold whipped cream into mascarpone: Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture using a spatula, mixing carefully until just combined to maintain the airy texture.
- Dip ladyfingers in espresso: In a medium bowl, mix the cooled espresso with the optional dark rum or liqueur. Quickly dip half the ladyfingers into the espresso mixture one at a time, just long enough to coat them without sogginess.
- Layer first ladyfinger base: Arrange the dipped ladyfingers evenly on the bottom of a 9x9-inch dish, cutting to fit as needed, to form the base layer.
- Add first mascarpone layer: Spread half of the mascarpone cream mixture evenly over the ladyfingers to create a smooth second layer.
- Dip remaining ladyfingers: Dip the remaining ladyfingers in the espresso-liqueur mixture as before, and arrange them in an even layer on top of the mascarpone layer.
- Top with remaining mascarpone: Spread the remaining mascarpone mixture evenly over the top layer of ladyfingers, sealing the dessert.
- Chill: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set firmly.
- Dust and serve: Just before serving, sift cocoa powder over the top of the tiramisu using a fine mesh strainer. Slice and serve chilled for a classic, creamy treat.
Notes
- Ensure ladyfingers are dipped briefly to prevent sogginess, which can affect texture.
- Using room temperature mascarpone helps achieve a smooth, lump-free cream.
- Chilling overnight is crucial for the best flavor and texture development.
- Substitute espresso with strong brewed coffee if espresso is unavailable.
- The optional liqueur adds depth of flavor but can be omitted for a non-alcoholic version.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian