Tiramisu: A Classic Italian Dessert
Tiramisu has always held a special place in our hearts. It’s one of those desserts that feels indulgent, comforting, and oh-so-elegant all at once. The first time we made tiramisu together was during a cozy date night at home. We wanted to recreate the magic of the first tiramisu we ever shared at a tiny Italian café on our honeymoon. But this time, we gave it our own twist—leaving out the eggs and using a splash of Kahlua to bring a subtle coffee liqueur flavor to the mix.
Making this eggless tiramisu has become a tradition for us, especially when we’re entertaining. It’s quick to assemble, requires no baking, and always wows our guests. Plus, there’s something so satisfying about layering espresso-soaked ladyfingers with velvety mascarpone and watching it all come together.
Table of Contents
- About Tiramisu
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Key Ingredients
- How To Make Tiramisu
- Have It Your Way: Customizing Tiramisu
- Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Health Benefits
- Other Recipes You’ll Love
About Tiramisu
Tiramisu, which translates to “pick-me-up” in Italian, originated in the Veneto region of Italy in the 1960s. Traditionally made with eggs, coffee, and mascarpone cheese, this iconic dessert is known for its creamy layers and rich, espresso-infused flavor.
Our eggless version stays true to the classic flavor profile while making it a bit lighter and easier to prepare. By skipping the eggs, we streamline the process without compromising on taste or texture. The addition of Kahlua adds a modern twist, blending seamlessly with the espresso and mascarpone to create a dessert that feels both timeless and uniquely ours.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Egg-Free Simplicity: No eggs means no fuss, but all the flavor.
- Rich and Creamy: The mascarpone and heavy cream create a dreamy, velvety texture.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for dinner parties, date nights, or simply treating yourself.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble it a day ahead for the best flavor and convenience.
Key Ingredients
- Ladyfinger Cookies: The base of the dessert, these delicate cookies soak up the espresso and Kahlua beautifully.
- Espresso: Strong, freshly brewed espresso adds the bold coffee flavor that defines tiramisu.
- Kahlua: A coffee liqueur that complements the espresso and adds a subtle kick.
- Mascarpone Cheese: The star of the cream layer, providing a rich and creamy texture.
- Heavy Cream: Whipped to perfection, it lightens the mascarpone mixture.
- Sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness.
- Vanilla Essence: Enhances the flavor and rounds out the cream layer.
- Cocoa Powder: For that signature dusting on top, adding a hint of bitterness to balance the sweetness.
How To Make Tiramisu
- Using a stand mixer or hand mixture, whisk together cold heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and 1 shot of chilled espresso to stiff peaks.
- To the mixture, add the mascarpone cheese and folder it in gently.
- In a cup, combine the remaining shot of expresso and coffee liqueur.
- In a small baking dish, place 6 ladyfinger cookies on the bottom brush on the coffee liqueur mixture onto the cookies using a silicone brush or pour it using a spoon. Be careful not to oversoak as it can make the cookies soggy.
- Add on half of the whipped cream mixture and spread it out evenly over the layer of ladyfinger cookies.
- Add a second layer of ladyfinger cookies on top of the whipped cream mixture, and brush with coffee liqueur mixture as in step 4.
- Add the remainder of the whipped cream mixture and spread it out evenly over the top layer of ladyfinger cookies.
- Using a tea strainer, sprinkle the cocoa powder evenly to cover the top.
- Chill the Tiramisu in the refrigerator for 3-4 hours or overnight to allow it to set properly.
- Serve and Enjoy!
Have It Your Way: Customizing Tiramisu
- Alcohol-Free: Skip the Kahlua and use vanilla or almond extract for a non-alcoholic version.
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream and a dairy-free mascarpone alternative for a vegan twist.
- Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Add a layer of grated dark chocolate between the cream and ladyfingers.
- Fruity Flair: Top with fresh berries for a refreshing pop of flavor.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~280
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Protein: 4g
Health Benefits
- Mood-Boosting: Espresso is rich in antioxidants and provides a gentle energy lift.
- Calcium Source: Mascarpone and heavy cream contribute to your daily calcium intake.
- Customizable Portions: Serve in smaller portions to control calorie intake while indulging.
Other Recipes You’ll Love
- Eggless Chocolate Cake
- Mango Sago
- Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies
- Mango Sticky Rice
- Orange Cranberry Oatmeal Cookies
Tiramisu: A Classic Italian Dessert
Ingredients
- 2 Cups Heavy Whipping Cream
- ¼ Cup Powdered Sugar
- 1 Tsp Vanilla Extract
- 2 Shot Espresso chilled
- ½ Cup Coffee Liqueur
- 2 Tbsp Cocoa Powder
- 12 Ladyfingers Cookies
- 8 oz Mascarpone Cheese
Instructions
- Using a stand mixer or hand mixture, whisk together cold heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and 1 shot of chilled espresso to stiff peaks.
- To the mixture, add the mascarpone cheese and folder it in gently.
- In a cup, combine the remaining shot of expresso and coffee liqueur.
- In a small baking dish, place 6 ladyfinger cookies on the bottom brush on the coffee liqueur mixture onto the cookies using a silicone brush or pour it using a spoon. Be careful not to oversoak as it can make the cookies soggy.
- Add on half of the whipped cream mixture and spread it out evenly over the layer of ladyfinger cookies.
- Add a second layer of ladyfinger cookies on top of the whipped cream mixture, and brush with coffee liqueur mixture as in step 4.
- Add the remainder of the whipped cream mixture and spread it out evenly over the top layer of ladyfinger cookies.
- Using a tea strainer, sprinkle the cocoa powder evenly to cover the top.
- Chill the Tiramisu in the refrigerator for 3-4 hours or overnight to allow it to set properly.
- Serve and Enjoy!
Notes
- For the best flavor, let the tiramisu chill for at least 6 hours or overnight.
- Use high-quality espresso and mascarpone for a truly authentic taste.
- Dust the cocoa powder just before serving to maintain its freshness and color.
- A trifle dish or individual serving glasses make for an elegant presentation.
Nutrition
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