Traditional Italian Tiramisu

Few desserts capture the essence of Italian indulgence like tiramisu. Light yet rich, creamy yet airy—every bite is perfection. But mastering this classic at home isn’t always easy. With these 7 secrets, you’ll craft an unforgettable traditional Italian tiramisu every time.

Why You’ll Love This Traditional Italian Tiramisu Recipe

Tiramisu means “pick me up” in Italian—and for good reason. This no-bake dessert balances bold coffee, sweet mascarpone, and delicate ladyfingers for an irresistible treat. Here’s why this version stands out:

• Authentic flavor: Uses traditional ingredients and methods.
• Better texture: Avoids common mistakes like soggy layers or heavy cream.
• Simple steps: Clear instructions ensure success even for beginners.

Plus, it’s customizable—swap coffee for chocolate or add a hint of liqueur for extra depth.

Ingredients for Traditional Italian Tiramisu

Quality matters. Authentic tiramisu relies on a few key ingredients—don’t compromise on freshness.

Core Ingredients (Serves 8–10)

Optional:

• Dark chocolate shavings (for garnish).

Pro Tip: Avoid whipped cream—real tiramisu relies on eggs and mascarpone for structure.

How to Make Traditional Italian Tiramisu (Step-by-Step Instructions)

Follow these steps for flawless layers—no shortcuts.

Step 1: Prepare the Zabaglione (Egg Mixture)

1. Whisk yolks and sugar in a heatproof bowl. Place over simmering water (double boiler).
2. Beat 8–10 minutes until pale, thick, and tripled in volume.
3. Cool to room temperature before adding mascarpone.

Secret #1: Whisk constantly to prevent scrambling. The mix should ribbon off the whisk.

Step 2: Fold in Mascarpone

1. Beat mascarpone briefly to loosen.
2. Gently fold into cooled zabaglione until smooth. Avoid overmixing.

Secret #2: Cold mascarpone curdles—let it sit out for 20 minutes first.

Step 3: Dip Ladyfingers Correctly

1. Pour espresso into a shallow dish. Add liqueur if using.
2. Quickly dip each ladyfinger (1–2 seconds per side)—no soaking.

Secret #3: Soggy layers ruin texture. A swift dip ensures soft-but-firm layers.

Step 4: Assemble Layers

1. Layer 1: Arrange dipped ladyfingers in a 9×13″ dish.
2. Layer 2: Spread half the mascarpone mixture evenly.
3. Repeat: Add another layer of dipped ladyfingers, then remaining cream.

Secret #4: Chill 10 minutes before the second mascarpone layer for cleaner cuts.

Step 5: Chill and Dust

1. Refrigerate 6+ hours (better overnight).
2. Dust cocoa generously before serving.

Secret #5: Sieve cocoa for a flawless finish—no clumps.

Serving Suggestions for Traditional Italian Tiramisu

Enhance your dessert with these pairings:

• Drinks: Espresso, Vin Santo, or a sweet Moscato.
• Garnishes: Fresh berries, chocolate curls, or mint sprigs.
• Occasions: Dinner parties, holidays, or as a gourmet finish to Italian meals.

Secret #6: Slice with a hot, dry knife for perfect portions.

FAQs

Secret #7: For firmer texture, add ½ tsp cream of tartar to the egg mix.

Traditional Italian Tiramisu Recipe

Traditional Italian Tiramisu Recipe

Maria Rose

This authentic tiramisu recipe features layers of coffee-dipped ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone zabaglione, and cocoa dusting—rich, airy, and irresistibly indulgent.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Chilling Time 5 hours hrs 20 minutes mins

Total Time 6 hours hrs

Course Dessert

Cuisine Italian

Servings 10

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

  

Core Ingredients:

• 6 large egg yolks room temperature
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup strong espresso cooled
• 16 oz 450g mascarpone cheese (full-fat)
• 24 –30 ladyfingers *savoiardi*
• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder Dutch-processed

Optional Additions:

• Dark chocolate shavings for garnish

Instructions

 

Step 1: Zabaglione (Egg Mixture)

• Whisk egg yolks and sugar in a heatproof bowl.
• Place over simmering water (double boiler) and beat 8–10 mins until thick, pale, and tripled in volume.
• Cool to room temperature.

Step 2: Mascarpone Folding

• Beat mascarpone briefly to loosen.
• Gently fold into the cooled zabaglione until smooth (avoid overmixing).

Step 3: Dip Ladyfingers

• Pour cooled espresso (and liqueur, if using) into a shallow dish.
• Quickly dip each ladyfinger (1–2 seconds per side)—do not soak.

Step 4: Assemble Layers

• Layer 1: Arrange dipped ladyfingers in a 9×13" dish.
• Layer 2: Spread half the mascarpone mixture evenly.
• Repeat with another layer of ladyfingers and remaining cream.

Step 5: Chill & Serve

• Refrigerate for 6+ hours (best overnight).
• Dust with cocoa powder before serving.

Notes

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	350 kcal
Fat	22g
Saturated Fat	13g
Protein	7g
Carbohydrates	30g
Sugar	18g
Fiber	1g
Cholesterol	190mg
Sodium	50mg

Keyword Coffee Dessert, Italian Dessert, Mascarpone, Tiramisu

Conclusion

Ready to impress? Just:

1. Master the zabaglione—whisk patiently.
2. Fold mascarpone gently—keep it airy.
3. Dip ladyfingers quickly—no sogginess.

Try this recipe, share your creations, and savor the taste of Italy at home. Buon appetito!

Want more easy dessert recipes like this? 3 Ingredient Chocolate Mousse or try this Deviled Strawberries