Easy Homemade Recipes

  • Recipe Box
    • Blog
  • About Me
    • Contact
    • Work With Me
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Recipe Box
  • Subscribe
  • About Me
  • Contact
subscribe
search icon
Homepage link
  • Recipe Box
  • Subscribe
  • About Me
  • Contact
×
Home » Recipes » Desserts

Authentic Italian Tiramisu Recipe

Published: May 7, 2023 by AmyG Modified On: Jan 14, 2025. This post may contain affiliate links. 2 Comments.

There's Tiramisu and then there's Authentic Italian Tiramisu made with real mascarpone cheese. Tiramisu is a classic Italian dessert that originated in Italy and has gained immense popularity worldwide. It is a decadent treat made with layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and a rich mascarpone cheese mixture, dusted with cocoa powder.

The best part is that it doesn't require any baking, making it a quick and easy dessert option that's perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture and delicious flavor, Tiramisu is a dessert that's sure to impress.

Up to making your own cookies for this recipe? Try my recipe for Italian Savoiardi Lady Finger Cookies.

Authentic Italian tiramisu in a white place
Jump to Recipe Print Recipe
Jump to:
  • Why You'll Love this Dish
  • What to Serve as a Main Dish with No Bake Tiramisu
  • Ingredients You'll Need
  • Using a Mascarpone Substitute
  • No Egg Tiramisu Recipe
  • How to Make Authentic Italian Tiramisu
  • Meal Prep Tips
  • Possible Ingredient Substitutions
  • Variations for the Classic Tiramisu
  • Answers to Commonly Asked Questions
  • More Desserts You'll Love
  • Recipe Details
  • PIN it Here
  • Food Safety
  • Comments

This decadent authentic Italian Tiramisu doesn't require baking and is made in a glass baking dish like Pyrex glassware or a ceramic dish of any size or shape.

Why You'll Love this Dish

  • No-bake dessert: Italian Tiramisu does not require any baking, making it a perfect option for hot summer days or when you want to avoid turning on the oven.
  • Classic dessert: Tiramisu is a classic Italian dessert that is loved by many for its delicious combination of flavors and textures.
  • Simple ingredients: The recipe calls for simple ingredients like mascarpone cheese, ladyfingers, and espresso, making it easy to whip up in no time.
  • Crowd-pleaser: Tiramisu is a dessert that is sure to impress any guest or family member and is perfect for special occasions or dinner parties.

If you love Tiramisu, then you will love one of these other Italian Desserts. Or, try this no bake strawberry tiramisu version of the traditional tiramisu.

What to Serve as a Main Dish with No Bake Tiramisu

Traditional Italian main dishes like spaghetti and veal meatballs, chicken marsala or a tender meatloaf in a red wine sauce are perfect main dishes to serve before enjoying a no bake tiramisu.

This page contains affiliate links, which means I may receive commissions if you choose to purchase through links I provide (at no extra cost to you). Thank you for supporting the work I put into this site! As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Ingredients You'll Need

To make authentic Italian Tiramisu you'll need: mascarpone cheese, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, coffee, cocoa powder, liquor, lady fingers.

Mascarpone cheese is a key ingredient in tiramisu and gives it its creamy, rich texture and tangy flavor.

Ladyfingers are sponge cake-like cookies used as the base of tiramisu.

Espresso coffee is the traditional choice for tiramisu.

Amaretto or coffee liqueur: Italian liqueurs used to flavor the espresso mixture.

Using a Mascarpone Substitute

Mascarpone is a thick creamy Italian cheese that is very mild and spreadable.  It's very similar to Philadelphia cream cheese. Essentially, if you don't have mascarpone or your local grocer doesn't carry it, you can substitute cream cheese in this recipe.

Note that the flavor and texture of the dessert may be slightly different. To make the substitution, use an equal amount of softened cream cheese in place of the mascarpone. It's also recommended to add a bit of heavy cream to the cream cheese to help mimic the creamy texture of mascarpone.

Other substitutes for mascarpone cheese in tiramisu include a mixture of whipped cream with vanilla pudding powder or a creamy cottage cheese.

Make this Tiramisu with one of the best Italian coffee brands.

See recipe card for the full list of ingredients and quantities.

No Egg Tiramisu Recipe

If you cannot use egg or prefer a no egg tiramisu, you can substitute the egg with whipped cream. Although, eggs are an important ingredient in Italian tiramisu because they help to stabilize and add structure to the dessert.

How to Make Authentic Italian Tiramisu

Get your ingredients ready. You'll need two bowls and a hand mixer at minimum.

mascarpone creamed with egg in a beige bowl

In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat the egg yolks and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add mascarpone cheese and vanilla. Beat to combine and set aside.

whipped egg white

In another bowl, whisk the egg whites until they form stiff peaks.

folding egg white into mascarpone mixture in a beige bowl

Add egg white mixture to mascarpone mixture.

mascarpone and egg white in a beige bowl

Fold egg whites gently into mascarpone mixture a little at a time until well combined.

steps to make tiramisu

In a medium bowl mix the room temperature coffee, liquor and 2 tbsp. of cocoa until well combined.

Dip the cookie in the coffee mixture and lay the cookie in the baking dish.

Pour half of the mascarpone mixture on top of the cookies and using a spoon carefully spread it out to all edges. Repeat.

tiramisu in a baking dish topped with cocoa powder

Using a fine mesh strainer, sprinkle the top of the tiramisu with cocoa. Place in refrigerator and allow the cookies to absorb the coffee and soften.

You can make this cake in advance and leave it in the fridge to rest for a couple of days.  The longer it sits, the more time the lady fingers have to absorb the alcohol and the coffee. This is one of those desserts that tastes better after sitting in the fridge for a while.

Storage:

Store leftovers in the fridge for 3 to 4 days covered with plastic wrap.

This dessert also freezes well. Freeze cakes or leftovers in an airtight container for future use for a maximum of one month. When you are ready to serve your Tiramisu, take it out the night before and thaw it out in the fridge.  Keep the Tiramisu refrigerated until you are ready to serve it to your guests or family.

Cut the cake into pre-measured slices prior to freezing to make it easier to serve individual servings.

Meal Prep Tips

Top with cocoa powder, cinnamon or shaved chocolate.

Alcohol can be eliminated if needed.

Let the tiramisu chill in the refrigerator for a minimum of 6 hours. The longer the no bake tiramisu stays cool the more the cream filling and cake layers absorb the coffee flavor.

This desserts is perfect for making in advance and bringing to a pot luck or dinner party.

Possible Ingredient Substitutions

Here are some possible ingredient substitutions:

  • Mascarpone Cheese: You can substitute cream cheese for mascarpone cheese in equal amounts. Another option is to use ricotta cheese, which will give the Tiramisu a slightly different flavor.
  • Ladyfingers: If you can't find ladyfingers, you can use sponge cake or pound cake as a substitute. Just cut the cake into the appropriate size and shape.
  • Espresso: If you don't have espresso on hand, you can use strong coffee instead. Just be sure it's brewed strong enough to give the Tiramisu the rich coffee flavor it needs.
  • Non Alcoholic - eliminated the alcohol for an alcohol free version.

The perfect recipe isn't that far away. I'd love to know how you substituted ingredients to fit your preference. Drop a comment below and let me know!

Variations for the Classic Tiramisu

Here are some amazing variations for the Classic Italian Tiramisu:

  • Chocolate Tiramisu: Add cocoa powder or melted chocolate to the mascarpone mixture for a chocolate twist on the classic dessert.
  • Berry Tiramisu: Add fresh berries like raspberries, strawberries or blueberries to the mascarpone mixture or use berry-flavored liqueur like Chambord for a fruity twist.
  • Lemon Tiramisu: Replace coffee with limoncello or add lemon zest to the mascarpone mixture for a bright and tangy dessert.

If you can think of any other way to make this tiramisu unique, go for it!

Answers to Commonly Asked Questions

What are lady fingers?

Lady fingers are a crisp Italian cookie made in the shape of a thick finger.  Hence the name lady fingers.  When dipped in liquid, lady fingers quickly get soft and if you are not quick enough will spill into your drink.

Can I make Tiramisu without alcohol?

Yes, you can substitute the traditional liquor, such as Marsala or Amaretto, with non-alcoholic options like espresso or coffee. You can also skip it altogether and use extra vanilla extract for flavor.

Can I use cream cheese instead of mascarpone cheese?

Yes, you can use cream cheese as a substitute for mascarpone in Tiramisu, although the flavor and texture of the dessert may be slightly different. To make the substitution, use an equal amount of softened cream cheese in place of the mascarpone. It's also recommended to add a bit of heavy cream to the cream cheese to help mimic the creamy texture of mascarpone.

Can I make Tiramisu ahead of time?

Yes, Tiramisu can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for a few hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld together. However, it's best to wait until just before serving to dust it with cocoa powder or add any decorative toppings to prevent them from becoming soggy.

More Desserts You'll Love

  • Italian ricotta cake in a plate with one slice missing
    Easy to Make Italian Almond Ricotta Cake Recipe
  • Pizzelle waffle cones on a paper towel
    Easy to Make Ice Cream Pizzelle Waffle Cones Recipe
  • frutti di bosco on a wooden cutting board with one slice removed
    Frutti di Bosco Tart
  • Italian Torrone with Nuts FI
    Soft and Chewy Italian Torrone (Nougat)

Recipe Details

Authentic Italian tiramisu in a white place

Authentic Italian Tiramisu Recipe

https://easyhomemaderecipes.ca
AmyG
There's Tiramisu and then there's Authentic Italian Tiramisu made with real mascarpone cheese. Tiramisu is a classic Italian dessert that originated in Italy and has gained immense popularity worldwide. It is a decadent treat made with layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and a rich mascarpone cheese mixture, dusted with cocoa powder.
The best part is that it doesn't require any baking, making it a quick and easy dessert option that's perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture and delicious flavor, Tiramisu is a dessert that's sure to impress.
Up to making your own cookies for this recipe? Try my recipe for Italian Savoiardi Lady Finger Cookies.
5 from 1 vote
Prevent your screen from going dark
Print Recipe Pin Recipe SaveSaved!
Prep Time 30 minutes mins
Resting Time 6 hours hrs
Total Time 6 hours hrs 30 minutes mins
Course Desserts and Snacks
Cuisine Italian
Servings 12
Calories 363 kcal

Equipment

  • baking dish
  • hand mixer
  • spatula
  • measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients
  

  • 450 g mascarpone cheese
  • ½ cups sugar
  • 4 eggs separated
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 cups espresso or regular coffee (instant is ok too)
  • 2 tbsp cocoa powder
  • 2 oz coffee liquor amaretto or other Italian liquor
  • 14 oz Savoiardi Ladyfingers 1 package 500g
  • ¼ cup Cocoa or chocolate shavings

Instructions
 

  • In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat the egg yolks and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add mascarpone cheese and vanilla. Beat to combine and set aside.
  • In another bowl, whisk the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. Fold egg whites gently into mascarpone mixture a little at a time until well combined.
  • In a medium bowl mix the room temperature coffee, liquor and 2 tbsp. of cocoa until well combined.
  • Dip the cookie in the coffee mixture and lay the cookie in the baking dish. Repeat placing cookies one after the other to make one full layer of coffee soaked cookies.
  • Pour half of the mascarpone mixture on top of the cookies and using a spoon carefully spread it out to all edges.
  • Repeat to make the second layer, but this time layer the cookies in the opposite direction. If you can't fit full cookies, cut them to fit. If you have any leftover coffee mixture use a spoon to pour some over the ladyfingers. Once you have completed your second layer, pour and spread the remaining mascarpone mixture.
  • Once you have completed your second layer, pour and spread the remaining mascarpone mixture.
  • Using a fine mesh strainer, sprinkle the top of the tiramisu with cocoa. Place in refrigerator and allow the cookies to absorb the coffee and soften.

Nutrition

Serving: 1Calories: 363kcalCarbohydrates: 31gProtein: 9gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0.01gCholesterol: 165mgSodium: 96mgPotassium: 143mgFiber: 1gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 788IUVitamin C: 0.1mgCalcium: 81mgIron: 2mg
Keyword coffee, cream cheese, mascarpone, tiramisu
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

PIN it Here

Authentic Italian tiramisu in a white place PIN

Food Safety

Note that the storage guidelines provided on this page and site are estimates from personal experiences. We are all adults and as an adult you are responsible to ensure that the food you eat is safe to eat. Since, I'm not a food safety expert, you are responsible to review your local guidelines on food storage prior to storing any food left-overs.

Remember to:

  • Not use the same utensils on cooked food, that previously touched raw meat
  • Wash hands after touching raw meat
  • Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
  • Never leave cooking food unattended
  • Use oils with high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds
  • Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove

For Canadian Guidelines check the Government of Canada Food Safety Guidelines or see more guidelines at USDA.gov.

More Dessert and Snack Recipes

  • Single Serve Desserts Collage
    Single Serve Desserts Perfect for Two
  • baked nutella muffins on a kitchen towel
    Homemade Nutella Muffins
  • zabaione zambaglione with marsala in a stem glass
    Italian Zabaione Recipe
  • rum cake with a slice cut in green glass plate
    Ultimate Rum Cake Recipe

Comments

    5 from 1 vote (1 rating without comment)

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

  1. Loreen says

    October 22, 2021 at 10:58 am

    You do not mention to separate the eggs - using the yolks and sugar (saving the whites to beat with a mixer as that would be easier than trying to beat egg whites with a whisk).
    The beaten egg whites should be added last to keep the volume. If you add things after they are folded in you are taking out the air you just tried to put in.

    Reply
    • AmyG says

      October 22, 2021 at 7:34 pm

      Good point Loreen! I'll update it to make it clearer. I guess i'm so used to making it without instructions that sometimes I forget to be clear in my recipe steps. Have a good day.

      Reply

Recent Recipes

  • cooked caprese pizza on a baking sheet
    Caprese Pizza with Fresh Mozzarella and Pesto Sauce
  • burrata salad with grape tomatoes in a white plate
    Burrata Salad with Grape Tomatoes: Fresh and Easy
  • Crispy Veal Cutlets in a white plate FI
    Tender Italian Veal Cutlets Recipe: Crispy, Juicy and Easy to Make
  • Summer Recipes to keep you cool photo collage Feature Image
    Easy Summer Recipes to Keep you Cool and Satisfied
  • ready to eat pasta all'amatriciana in a skillet
    Easy to Make at Home Italian Pasta All'Amatriciana Recipe
  • Pasta alla puttanesca in a skillet
    Easy to Make Italian Spaghetti Pasta alla Puttanesca Recipe

SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER
and get ready to take your puff pastry game to the next level with our FREE e-book, because life is too short to settle for mediocre pastries.
Yes! Send me a FREE eBook, I want to make pastries like a pro!

This page contains affiliate links, which means I may receive commissions if you choose to purchase through links I provide (at no extra cost to you). Thank you for supporting the work I put into this site! As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

About Me

Picture of Amy Outside

Hey, I'm Amy! And I'm so happy you're here!! So many of my favorite memories in life seem to take place around the table, especially when surrounded by the people I love. And of course, all the better when nourished by some seriously delicious food.

Stick around and explore the site to get great ideas.

Learn more about me →

Affiliate Links Message

*This page may have affiliate links, which means I may receive commissions if you choose to purchase through links I provide (at no extra cost to you). Thank you for supporting the work I put into this site!

  • Paleo
  • Whole30
  • Desserts
  • Main Entrées
  • Poultry
  • Meatless
  • Seafood
  • Beef

Footer

↑ back to top

About

  • Privacy Policy
  • About Me

Newsletter

  • Sign Up! for emails and updates

Reach Out

  • Contact
  • Work With Me

Copyright © 2025 Easy Homemade Recipes
Cook'd Pro using the Feast Theme Plugin

Rate This Recipe

Your vote:




A rating is required
A name is required
An email is required

Recipe Ratings without Comment

Something went wrong. Please try again.