Tiramisu recipe with caramelized nuts

Tiramisu with Caramelized Nuts – A Decadent Indulgence

The tiramisu dessert is undoubtedly a classic of international cuisine. Its combination of creamy textures and intense coffee flavors makes it irresistible. In this recipe, we add a touch of originality with caramelized nuts, giving it a depth of flavor that will transform each bite into a memorable experience. Thanks to Laura Adamache, a talented host passionate about cooking, we have adapted this recipe to make it even more special.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Chilling time: 12 hours
Total time: 12 hours and 30 minutes
Servings: 12-15

Ingredients:

For the tiramisu cream:
- 250 g ladyfingers (approximately 27 ladyfingers)
- 250 g mascarpone
- 250-300 g Greek yogurt (choose a high-quality, full-fat yogurt for a creamier texture)
- 300 g heavy cream (whipped until stiff)
- 3 tablespoons sugar (adjustable to taste)
- 150 g nuts (your choice: pecans, regular walnuts, or hazelnuts)
- 6 tablespoons sugar (for caramelizing)

For the coffee syrup:
- 2 tablespoons instant coffee (or 4-5 packets)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 150 ml cold water

For the outer layer:
- 200 g heavy cream (whipped until stiff)
- 150 g caramelized nuts (prepared according to the recipe above)
- 8 tablespoons sugar (for caramelizing)

Preparing the tiramisu:

1. Caramelizing the nuts: Start by caramelizing the nuts. Place 6 tablespoons of sugar in a pan over medium heat. Stir constantly until the sugar melts and turns amber in color. Add the nuts and quickly stir to coat them evenly with caramel. Pour the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let it cool completely. Once cooled, place the caramelized nuts in a bag and crush them with a rolling pin or a heavy object.

2. Preparing the cream: In a bowl, mix the mascarpone and Greek yogurt until smooth. Add the 3 tablespoons of sugar and mix well. Gradually fold in the whipped cream, being careful not to deflate it. Finally, add the crushed caramelized nuts and gently mix to distribute them evenly.

3. Preparing the coffee: In another bowl, dissolve the instant coffee with the 2 tablespoons of sugar in 150 ml of cold water. Mix well to ensure the sugar dissolves completely.

4. Assembling the tiramisu: Line a long dish (like a loaf pan) with aluminum foil for easy removal later. Dip the ladyfingers in the coffee, but only partially, halfway, to avoid making them too soggy. Place the first 9 ladyfingers in the dish, with the soaked side down. Add the first half of the tiramisu cream, leveling it slightly. Continue with another layer of ladyfingers, followed by the remaining cream, and finally, place a last layer of ladyfingers with the dry side up.

5. Chilling: Cover everything with aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 12 hours. This waiting time is essential for the flavors to meld and for the dessert to achieve the perfect texture.

6. Caramelizing the nuts for the outer layer: While the tiramisu is chilling, prepare the caramelized nuts for the outer layer. Use 8 tablespoons of sugar and repeat the caramelization process similar to step 1. Once cooled, crush them again to achieve a crunchy texture.

7. Finishing the tiramisu: After 12 hours of chilling, carefully invert the dish onto a serving platter. Remove the aluminum foil and cover the entire surface of the tiramisu with whipped cream. Then, sprinkle the crushed caramelized nuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed.

8. Serving: Place the dessert in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving, allowing the flavors to intensify. Served cold, the tiramisu with caramelized nuts is perfect alongside a freshly brewed coffee or a sweet wine.

Helpful tips:
- You can replace the nuts with other favorites, such as almonds or pistachios, to vary the flavors.
- Make sure the mascarpone is at room temperature for easier incorporation into the cream.
- If you prefer a stronger coffee flavor, you can replace the instant coffee with freshly brewed espresso.

Nutritional benefits: The tiramisu with caramelized nuts is not only a delicious dessert but also comes with nutritional benefits. Nuts are an excellent source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber, while Greek yogurt provides a good amount of probiotics and calcium.

Calories: A serving of tiramisu contains approximately 350-400 calories, but it's important to enjoy this dessert in moderation.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of cookies? Yes, you can use cocoa cookies or even speculoos cookies for a different flavor.
- How can I make the tiramisu less sweet? Reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe and opt for natural Greek yogurt without added sugar.

This tiramisu with caramelized nuts is perfect for both special occasions and personal indulgence moments. Try it, and you'll discover that it's more than just a dessert – it's a true culinary experience! Enjoy!