55th Anniversary Cake Tiramisu, original recipe

Birthday Cake 55 Tiramisu - The Original Recipe

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooling time: 4 hours
Total time: 4 hours 30 minutes
Number of servings: 12

The history of tiramisu is as fascinating as its delicious flavor. This iconic dessert has become a symbol of culinary refinement and joy, bringing together layers of flavor and unmistakable textures. It is said that tiramisu was created in the 1960s as a dessert that offers not just sustenance but also emotional comfort. Perfect for celebrating special moments such as anniversaries, tiramisu is the ideal choice to mark 55 years of life filled with memories and joys.

Ingredients for Tiramisu - The Original Recipe:
- 5 egg yolks
- 4 egg whites
- 200 g powdered sugar
- 250 g mascarpone
- 1 vial of vanilla (or 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract)
- 2 tablespoons brandy (or rum, for a distinct note)
- 500 ml sweet, freshly brewed coffee
- 1 large package of ladyfingers (about 24 pieces)
- 500 ml whipped cream (300 ml for the cream + 200 ml for decoration)

Preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the coffee
Start by brewing 500 ml of sweet coffee. You can use espresso for an intense flavor or regular coffee, depending on your preferences. Make sure it is warm enough but not hot, so as not to overly soak the ladyfingers. Add two tablespoons of brandy to the coffee to give it a sophisticated note. Allow the coffee to cool to room temperature.

Step 2: Making the mascarpone cream
In a large bowl, beat the 5 egg yolks with 200 g of powdered sugar until the mixture becomes creamy and light in color. It is essential to use powdered sugar, as it dissolves faster, providing a smooth texture to the cream.

Step 3: Adding the mascarpone
Incorporate 250 g of mascarpone into the egg yolk mixture, adding 1 vial of vanilla. Gently mix with a spatula until the ingredients are fully integrated, being careful not to form lumps.

Step 4: Beating the egg whites
In a separate bowl, beat the 4 egg whites until they form stiff peaks. Pay particular attention to this step, as well-beaten egg whites will add airiness and lightness to your cream. Start beating at low speed, then increase the speed as the foam forms.

Step 5: Combining the ingredients
Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the mascarpone mixture using a spatula, making upward motions. This technique helps to maintain the air in the egg whites, making the cream fluffier.

Step 6: Assembling the tiramisu
In a serving dish, dip each ladyfinger in coffee for about 2-3 seconds, being careful not to let them soak too long, or they will fall apart. Arrange a layer of ladyfingers at the bottom of the dish, followed by a generous layer of mascarpone cream. Repeat the process, forming at least two layers, finishing with the cream on top.

Step 7: Refrigerating and decorating
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and let it chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours, but ideally overnight. This resting time allows the flavors to combine perfectly. 30 minutes before serving, prepare the whipped cream: beat 200 ml of whipped cream and use it to decorate the tiramisu before serving. You can also add a sprinkle of cocoa or grated chocolate on top for an extra flavor kick.

Practical tips:
1. Always use quality ingredients, especially mascarpone, for an authentic taste.
2. If you want to experiment, you can add a splash of coffee liqueur or even almond extract to the cream.
3. If you prefer a less sweet tiramisu, reduce the amount of powdered sugar in the recipe.
4. An interesting variation is to use cocoa or coffee-flavored ladyfingers, which will add an extra dimension to your dessert.

Nutritional benefits:
Tiramisu, despite its decadent appearance, is rich in protein due to the eggs and mascarpone. Coffee, besides bringing a distinctive flavor, contains antioxidants and can help boost energy.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use another type of cheese instead of mascarpone?
While mascarpone is the traditional ingredient, you can try ricotta, but the taste will be different.

2. How can I make the tiramisu healthier?
You can replace sugar with natural sweeteners and use light whipped cream.

3. Can tiramisu be frozen?
Although it is recommended to be consumed fresh, tiramisu can be frozen, but the texture may change.

Ideal to be served alongside an espresso or a glass of sweet wine, this 55th birthday tiramisu cake will bring a smile to the faces of everyone who tastes it. Try making it and don’t forget to share your special moments with your loved ones!