Tiramisu al Caffè: A Step-by-Step Recipe Guide

Tiramisu al Caffè is a classic Italian dessert that combines the rich flavors of coffee with creamy mascarpone, all layered with delicate ladyfingers. This dessert is not only delicious but also has a beautiful presentation that makes it perfect for any occasion. From my own personal experience, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Let me show you how I make this delightful dessert.

Notes on What to Expect

Tiramisu should have a delightful balance of creamy texture and coffee flavor, with a slight bitterness from the cocoa powder. The ladyfingers should be soft but hold their shape, creating beautiful layers.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes (no baking required)
• Time to Stand: 4 hours (minimum)
• Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
• Ease of Cooking: Easy
• Servings: 8
• Calories: Approximately 300 per serving
• Cost of Ingredients: Around $20 (varies by location)
• Cuisine: Italian
• Course: Dessert

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• 9×9-inch (or similar) baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula
• Sifter or fine mesh sieve (for cocoa powder)
• Check out the must-have equipment and ingredients for making a Savory  #tiramisualcaffè  here.

Ingredients

• For the Coffee Mixture:
  • 1 cup strong brewed coffee (cooled to room temperature)
  • 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional, can use a non-alcoholic substitute)
• For the Cream Mixture:
  • 3 large egg yolks
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup mascarpone cheese (room temperature)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
• For Assembly:
  • 24-30 ladyfingers (savoiardi)
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)
  • Check out the must-have equipment and ingredients for making a Savory  #tiramisualcaffè  here.

Step-by-Step Method

1. Prepare the Coffee Mixture

In a shallow dish, combine the brewed coffee and coffee liqueur (if using). Set aside to cool completely. This will be used to dip the ladyfingers.

2. Make the Cream Mixture

• In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and granulated sugar until the mixture is pale and creamy. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
• Gently fold in the mascarpone cheese until fully incorporated and smooth. Be careful not to overmix.
• In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Then, gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until combined. This will create a light and airy texture.

3. Assemble the Tiramisu

• Dip each ladyfinger briefly into the coffee mixture, ensuring they are soaked but not overly soggy.
• Arrange half of the soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of the baking dish.
• Spread half of the mascarpone cream mixture over the ladyfingers.
• Repeat the layers with the remaining ladyfingers and cream mixture, finishing with the cream layer on top.

4. Chill the Dessert

Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

5. Serve

Before serving, dust the top generously with cocoa powder using a sifter or fine mesh sieve. Cut into squares and enjoy!

Variations

• Chocolate Tiramisu: Add cocoa powder to the mascarpone mixture for a chocolatey twist.
• Fruit Tiramisu: Layer in some fresh berries or sliced fruits for a refreshing touch.
• Vegan Tiramisu: Substitute the mascarpone with a vegan cream cheese or blended silken tofu, and use a vegan whipped cream substitute.
• Check out the must-have equipment and ingredients for making a Savory  #tiramisualcaffè  here.

Tips and Substitutions

• Egg-Free Option: Use pasteurized egg products or make a custard using cornstarch if you prefer not to use raw eggs.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the mascarpone with a plant-based cream cheese and use coconut cream in place of heavy cream.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free ladyfingers or sponge cake.

Nutritional Information Per Serving

• Calories: Approximately 300
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Protein: 5g

I hope this guide has made making Tiramisu al Caffè seem a little less daunting! Have you tried it before? Please, be honest, and let me know in the comments below. I love to hear feedback from a real person like you, so please, leave your honest comment!