Tiramisu

The perfect dessert for coffee and creamy sweet lovers: an adapted tiramisu, simple and delicious, that will impress everyone! This quick dessert recipe combines the fine texture of mascarpone with the intense aroma of coffee and a hint of cognac, offering a unique experience with every bite. So, let's discover together how to prepare this wonderful dessert, step by step.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Chilling time: at least 4 hours (ideally overnight)
Number of servings: 8-10

Necessary ingredients:
- 4 fresh eggs (preferably free-range for superior quality)
- 170 g sugar (brown sugar can also be used for a deeper flavor)
- 2 tubs of mascarpone (250 g each)
- 1 small tub of whipped cream (about 200 ml, Hulala is a popular choice)
- 1 large package of ladyfingers (ideal for champagne, with 4 rows)
- 5 cups of coffee (strong and sweet, to your liking)
- 2-3 tablespoons of cognac (optional, but recommended for a touch of elegance)
- Cocoa for decoration

Preparing the dessert:

1. Preparing the mascarpone cream
In a large bowl, start by whisking the egg yolks with the sugar. Use an electric mixer to achieve a light-colored and creamy mixture. This step is essential as the sugar will dissolve better, and the cream will become airy.
Add the two tubs of mascarpone to the bowl and gently mix with a spatula or with the mixer on low speed until combined.

2. Beating the egg whites
In another bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. It is important that the bowl and utensils are completely clean and dry to achieve stable peaks. This step will add air and lightness to your mixture.

3. The perfect combination
Carefully add the beaten egg whites to the mascarpone cream, gently folding with a spatula from the bottom up. This will keep the air in the mixture, giving the dessert a light and fluffy texture.

4. Preparing the whipped cream
In another bowl, beat the cream until it becomes firm. Make sure the cream is cold for the best results. Then, fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone cream, mixing carefully.

5. The aromatic coffee
Prepare the strong and sweet coffee, letting it cool down. If desired, add 2-3 tablespoons of cognac to the cold coffee to intensify the flavors. This addition will give the dessert a sophisticated note and a complex taste.

6. Assembling the dessert
In a serving dish or tray, start assembling the dessert. Take the ladyfingers and quickly dip them in the cold coffee, being careful not to leave them too long, or they will become too soggy. Place a first layer of ladyfingers at the bottom of the dish, followed by a layer of mascarpone cream. Continue with another layer of ladyfingers, alternating with cream, until you reach the desired height.

7. The final decoration
The last layer will be the mascarpone cream, which you can sprinkle with cocoa. Use a sieve to achieve an even layer of cocoa, which will add a touch of elegance and a color contrast. Cover the dessert with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but ideally overnight. This time will allow the flavors to develop and combine perfectly.

8. Serving
When you are ready to serve, take the dessert out of the fridge and cut it into portions. You can decorate it with a few coffee beans or extra whipped cream if desired. This dessert pairs perfectly with a strong coffee, a cappuccino, or even a glass of sweet wine.

Practical tips:
- Use quality ingredients, especially for mascarpone and coffee, to achieve a truly remarkable dessert.
- If you want to try an alcohol-free version, you can omit the cognac or use vanilla or rum extract for a delicious taste.
- You can also add berries between layers for a fresh note and a burst of color.

Nutritional benefits:
Tiramisu is a dessert that contains protein from eggs and mascarpone, but it is important to consume it in moderation due to its high caloric content, mainly from sugar and fats. A serving of tiramisu has about 350-400 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

History of the dessert:
Tiramisu, an iconic dessert, has its origins in culinary traditions that emphasize layers of flavors and textures. Over time, it has evolved into various versions, each with its own story. Our adapted dessert is a simplified version that retains the original essence but is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can tiramisu be made without eggs?
Yes, you can use a mixture of mascarpone, whipped cream, and various flavors to achieve an egg-free version.
2. How can I store tiramisu?
Tiramisu stores well in the fridge for a few days, but it is recommended to consume it within 3 days for the best flavors.
3. Can I use another type of biscuit?
Of course! Savoiardi biscuits are traditional, but you can also use digestive biscuits or other types of biscuits, adapting to your preferences.

Now it's time to unleash your creativity! This dessert will not only bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones but will also turn any meal into a special moment. Enjoy!