Tiramisu
Ingredients:
For the Coffee Mixture:
- Espresso or Strong Brewed Coffee: 1½ cups, cooled to room temperature
- Dark Rum or Brandy: 3 tablespoons (optional)
For the Cheese Mixture:
- Mascarpone Cheese: 1½ cups (about 340 grams)
- Egg Yolks: 4 large
- Granulated Sugar: ¾ cup
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
Additional:
- Ladyfingers: About 24 to 30 (depending on the size of your dish)
- Cocoa Powder: For dusting
- Dark Chocolate: Shaved, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Coffee Mixture:
- In a shallow dish, combine the espresso or coffee with rum or brandy. Set aside.
- Make the Cheese Mixture:
- In a large bowl, beat egg yolks and sugar together until thick and pale. Add mascarpone cheese and vanilla extract, and mix until smooth and well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until combined.
- Assemble the Tiramisu:
- Dip each ladyfinger quickly into the coffee mixture. Don’t soak them too long or they’ll become too soggy. Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers at the bottom of a 9×13 inch dish or similar.
- Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers.
- Add another layer of soaked ladyfingers and top with the remaining mascarpone mixture.
- Smooth the top and dust generously with cocoa powder. Garnish with shaved dark chocolate if desired.
- Chill:
- Cover the tiramisu with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the dessert to firm up.
- Serve:
- Serve chilled. The tiramisu can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Tips:
- Ladyfingers: Make sure to use hard, crisp ladyfingers (savoiardi) rather than the soft sponge cake variety.
- Coffee Soaking: Quick dip the ladyfingers in the coffee mixture to prevent them from becoming too soggy.
- Raw Eggs: This recipe uses raw egg yolks. If you have concerns about raw eggs, you can use pasteurized eggs.
- Mascarpone Cheese: Ensure the mascarpone is at room temperature to mix smoothly.
Enjoy your homemade Tiramisu, a creamy and indulgent dessert that’s perfect for any special occasion!
