Original Tiramisu Recipe

Tiramisu - a delicious journey into the world of desserts

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooling time: 4 hours
Total time: 4 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 8

Tiramisu, an iconic Italian dessert, is more than just a simple combination of ingredients; it is a love story between coffee, mascarpone, and ladyfingers. Its name translates to "pick me up," and each bite brings an explosion of flavors that will transport you to a world of pleasure. This Tiramisu recipe is original, with an authentic taste that will surely impress your guests.

The ingredients needed for this recipe are simple, but each plays an essential role in creating the perfect texture and flavor:

Ingredients:
- 500 g mascarpone
- 1 container of liquid cream (about 200-300 ml)
- 2 packages of ladyfingers (about 400 g)
- 3 large, fresh eggs
- 3 tablespoons of sugar (preferably fine sugar)
- Strong brewed coffee (about 300 ml)
- Almond essence (optional, for a touch of flavor)

For a deeper flavor, you can add a few drops of almond essence to the mascarpone cream. This will bring a subtle fragrance, complementing the coffee's aroma. If you are a coffee lover, choose high-quality coffee to create a truly memorable dessert.

Preparation steps:

1. Preparing the coffee: Start by brewing the coffee. Use 300 ml of hot water and 2-3 tablespoons of ground coffee, depending on how strong you want your coffee. Let it cool slightly, then add the almond essence if using.

2. Separating the eggs: In a bowl, separate the egg whites from the yolks. It is important that the eggs are fresh, as they will not be cooked. By using fresh eggs, you ensure that your dessert is not only delicious but also safe to consume.

3. Preparing the cream: In another bowl, beat the egg yolks with the 3 tablespoons of sugar until the mixture becomes creamy and changes color to light yellow. Then, add the mascarpone and mix well until it becomes a smooth cream.

4. Beating the egg whites: In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. This step is essential for achieving a light and airy texture in the cream. Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the mascarpone cream with a spatula to avoid losing the air in the mixture.

5. Assembling the tiramisu: Take a dessert dish (preferably a rectangular dish or a glass trifle dish) and start assembling the tiramisu. Dip each ladyfinger in coffee for a few seconds (don’t soak them too long, or they will fall apart) and place them in an even layer at the bottom of the dish.

6. The cream layer: Pour a layer of mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers, leveling it with a spatula. Continue alternating layers of ladyfingers and cream until all ingredients are used, ensuring the last layer is cream.

7. Cooling: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and let the tiramisu chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, but ideally overnight. This will allow the flavors to develop and the ladyfingers to absorb moisture.

8. Serving: Before serving, you can sprinkle unsweetened cocoa or grated chocolate on top of the tiramisu for an attractive appearance. You can also add a few coffee beans or slices of toasted almonds for extra texture.

Helpful tips:
- Make sure the liquid cream is well chilled before whipping. This will help achieve a firmer whipped cream.
- If you don’t have almond essence, you can use amaretto or even another preferred extract.
- This tiramisu pairs perfectly with a strong espresso or cappuccino at the end of a meal.

Nutritional benefits:
Tiramisu is a calorie-rich dessert but offers benefits due to its ingredients. Mascarpone is a source of healthy fats, and coffee contains antioxidants that can provide an energy boost. However, it is best to consume this dessert in moderation.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use whole grain ladyfingers?
Yes, you can use whole grain ladyfingers for a healthier option, but the taste and texture will be slightly different.

2. How can I make tiramisu without eggs?
You can replace the eggs with a combination of Greek yogurt and whipped cream, but the result will differ from the traditional recipe.

3. How long can tiramisu be stored in the refrigerator?
Tiramisu can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, but it is best consumed within the first 24 hours after preparation.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to get cooking! Your tiramisu will surely become a favorite among family and friends. Enjoy every bite and savor this delicious dessert that perfectly blends flavors and textures, providing you with an unforgettable culinary experience.