Indulge in the rich, creamy layers of a classic Tiramisu with this easy-to-follow recipe. Perfectly balanced with the flavors of espresso, mascarpone, and cocoa, this irresistible Italian dessert will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet cravings. Whether you’re a novice baker or an experienced cook, our simple guide will help you create the perfect Tiramisu every time.
Ingredients
- 250g mascarpone cheese
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups double cream (heavy cream works too)
- 1/2 – 3/4 cup icing sugar (to taste)
- 1 tsp coffee mixed with 1/2 cup water (adjust to preference)
- 1-2 tbsp brandy (or any alcohol of your choice)
- Sponge fingers (ladyfingers)
- Chocolate powder or cocoa for garnish
Preparation Steps
First, let’s prepare the coffee mixture. In a bowl, combine your coffee with a little water. You can adjust the strength to your liking. Add the brandy to the coffee and mix well.
Next, take your mascarpone cheese (about 250 grams) and add it to a clean bowl. Pour in about a teaspoon of vanilla extract. Using a whisk or a hand mixer, mix on low speed for about two minutes until the mascarpone becomes softer and easier to work with.
Once it’s well mixed, set it aside. Now, grab another bowl for the double cream. Whip the cream for about a minute until it thickens slightly, then add in your icing sugar. Remember to mix this gently to avoid a mess!
After mixing, it’s time to combine the mascarpone with the double cream and icing sugar. I recommend adding the mascarpone in small batches to ensure everything is well incorporated. Once mixed, set aside again.
Layering the Tiramisu
Now for the fun part! Grab a piping bag (or just spoon) to layer your Tiramisu. If you don’t have a piping bag, don’t worry—using a spoon works just fine.
Take your sponge fingers and break them in half if needed to fit your serving cups. Dip each sponge finger into the coffee mixture, but be careful not to soak them too long as they can break apart.
Start layering the bottom of your cup with the dipped sponge fingers, followed by a layer of the mascarpone mixture. Repeat the process for about three to four layers or until your cup is filled. Finish off with a little more cream on top.
Once you’re done layering, cover the cups with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least four hours, or ideally overnight. This will allow all those lovely flavours to meld together beautifully.
Serving Your Tiramisu
After chilling, it’s finally time to serve! When you’re ready to enjoy, remove the plastic wrap and dust the top with cocoa powder or chocolate for that finishing touch.
And there you have it—a beautiful, homemade Tiramisu that’s ready to impress! Enjoy every creamy, coffee-soaked bite.