Print

Easy Tiramisu (Chef Recipe)

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This authentic Italian tiramisu is rich, creamy, and surprisingly light! Made the traditional way with mascarpone and raw eggs, this no-cream recipe is the real deal. A perfect dessert for any occasion!

  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes (no-bake)
  • Total Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling time)
  • Yield: Serves 6–8
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

3 eggs, yolks and whites separated

1/2 cup (110g) caster sugar (superfine sugar)

1/2 tsp vanilla extract

8 oz / 250g mascarpone (use a quality brand – see Note 1)

1 1/4 cups strong black coffee, hot (see Note 2)

2 tbsp (or more) Frangelico or Kahlua (optional – skip for alcohol-free version)

6.5 oz / 200g (24–30) ladyfingers / savoiardi biscuits (see Note 3)

Cocoa powder, for dusting

Instructions

Whip Yolks & Sugar: Beat egg yolks and sugar with a stand mixer or hand beater on medium-high for 10 minutes, until pale yellow, thick, and tripled in volume.

Add Mascarpone: Beat in vanilla and mascarpone until smooth. Transfer to a separate bowl.

Whip Egg Whites: Clean the mixing bowl and beat egg whites until stiff peaks form (~3 minutes).

Fold Mixtures: Gently fold half the mascarpone mixture into the egg whites, then fold in the remaining half, preserving airiness (see Note 4).

Layer Tiramisu:

Mix coffee and liquor (if using).

Quickly dip ladyfingers into the coffee and arrange to line the bottom of an 8-inch (20 cm) square dish.

Spread over half the cream mixture.

Add a second layer of dipped biscuits.

Spread the remaining cream mixture evenly on top.

Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 4–5 hours, preferably overnight.

Serve: Dust with cocoa powder just before serving.

Notes

Mascarpone – Avoid cheap, watery brands; they result in runny cream. Use brands like La Casa Formaggio, Montefiore, or anything from an Italian deli.

Coffee – Use espresso or very strong brewed coffee. Nespresso or 2–3 tbsp instant coffee granules also work.

Ladyfingers – Use 200g, around 24–30 biscuits. Enough for two layers in an 8″ square dish.

Folding Tip – Slight lumps from the egg whites are okay; they’ll smooth out as it rests. Avoid overmixing to keep it airy.

Raw Eggs Warning – This is a traditional recipe using raw eggs. Not recommended for young children, pregnant women, elderly, or immunocompromised individuals.