Original tiramisu recipe

Tiramisu – The Italian Dessert That Will Capture Your Heart

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Chilling time: 4 hours
Total time: 4 hours and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Who doesn’t love a dessert that combines the intense flavor of coffee with the creamy, airy texture of a delicious cream? Tiramisu is undoubtedly one of the most beloved Italian cakes, a symbol of culinary refinement and attention to detail. This dessert, which means "pick me up" in Italian, emerged in the 1960s and has since gained popularity worldwide. It has become a favorite not only for its taste but also for its versatility. Whether served at an elegant party or just as a treat after a family dinner, tiramisu always finds its place.

In this recipe, I will share with you how to create Tiramisu in its traditional style, but I will also refer to a modern variant, using heavy cream instead of mascarpone for a similarly delicious texture.

Ingredients:

- 4 fresh eggs (preferably from free-range chickens)
- 300 g mascarpone (or 500 g heavy cream)
- 7 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 300 g ladyfingers
- 250 ml freshly brewed coffee (ideally from high-quality coffee)
- Cocoa powder (for decoration and an extra hint of flavor)

Step by Step: How to Prepare Tiramisu

Step 1: Preparing the Coffee
Start by brewing the coffee. Use high-quality coffee, as its taste will significantly influence your dessert. Boil 250 ml of water and add the ground coffee, then let it steep for 5-10 minutes. Once ready, let it cool slightly. It’s important that the coffee is warm, but not hot, to avoid overly softening the ladyfingers.

Step 2: Separating the Eggs
In the meantime, separate the yolks from the whites. Use a clean, dry bowl to beat the egg whites, as any fat can prevent a firm foam from forming.

Step 3: Preparing the Cream
In a large bowl, add the yolks and powdered sugar. Beat well with an electric mixer until the mixture becomes light in color and fluffy. Then, add the mascarpone (or heavy cream) and gently mix with a spatula until combined. Finally, carefully fold in the beaten egg whites, mixing slowly from top to bottom. This step is crucial for achieving an airy texture.

Step 4: Assembling the Tiramisu
In a rectangular dish or pan, start by laying a layer of ladyfingers quickly dipped in coffee. Be careful not to soak them too long, as they can become overly soft. Then, pour half of the mascarpone cream evenly over the ladyfingers. Repeat this process with another layer of ladyfingers and finish with the remaining cream.

Step 5: Chilling
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and let the Tiramisu chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight. This chilling period allows the flavors to meld and the cream to set properly.

Step 6: Serving
Before serving, sprinkle a generous layer of cocoa on top. This not only adds a color contrast but also a hint of bitterness that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the dessert. You can also add a few coffee beans as decoration for an elegant touch.

Practical Tips:

1. Use fresh, high-quality eggs. Tiramisu is not cooked, so the freshness of the ingredients is essential.
2. If you want a stronger coffee flavor, you can add a bit of coffee liqueur to the coffee.
3. For an extra hint of flavor, you can add a little vanilla extract to the mascarpone cream.
4. If you prefer an eggless Tiramisu, you can use an adapted recipe, replacing the eggs with flavored mascarpone cream.
5. Tiramisu can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, but it is best consumed on the first day to maintain its optimal texture.

Nutritional Benefits:
Tiramisu contains ingredients that offer both nutritional benefits and calories. A serving of Tiramisu has approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the ingredients used. The eggs and mascarpone provide protein and healthy fats, while coffee is a good source of antioxidants. However, it is a sweet dessert, so it’s best to enjoy it in moderation.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use whole-grain ladyfingers?
Yes, whole-grain ladyfingers can be a healthy option, but make sure they are firm enough to withstand soaking in coffee.

2. Is tiramisu suitable for vegans?
There are vegan Tiramisu recipes that use plant-based alternatives for mascarpone and eggs, such as coconut cream or tofu.

3. Can I freeze Tiramisu?
It is recommended not to freeze Tiramisu, as the texture may change. It’s better to keep it in the refrigerator.

Suggested Pairings:
Tiramisu pairs perfectly with a strong espresso or cappuccino. Additionally, a sweet wine like Moscato would wonderfully complement this decadent dessert.

Possible Variations:
- Fruit Tiramisu: you can add a layer of fresh fruit, such as raspberries or strawberries, for a fruity note.
- Chocolate Tiramisu: incorporate dark chocolate pieces into the cream and use chocolate-flavored cocoa for a more intense taste.

In conclusion, Tiramisu is more than just a dessert – it’s a culinary experience that can bring joy and bring people together. Whether you choose the traditional recipe or the cream variant, don’t forget to put your personal touch on it. Enjoy your meal!