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A creamy slice of Traditional Italian Tiramisu with layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone, dusted with cocoa powder.

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.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 5 hours 20 minutes
Total Time 6 hours
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 9x13" 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