This creamy Italian tiramisu dessert has a perfect balance of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, silky mascarpone cream, and a dusting of cocoa that makes it irresistible.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting your dessert journey, this easy tiramisu will make you feel like an Italian pastry chef without the stress. The best part? No baking is required, making it a quick yet impressive treat for family gatherings, dinner parties, or simply indulging yourself.
I first learned to make this classic tiramisu recipe while visiting a friend’s family in Rome. They insisted on using only fresh mascarpone, strong espresso, and high-quality cocoa powder. It’s the little details that transform a good tiramisu recipe into something unforgettable. While there are countless variations out there, I stick to the traditional layers and flavors because they deliver a rich, creamy texture with just the right hit of coffee.
If you’ve never tried making homemade tiramisu before, you might be surprised at how simple it really is. The secret lies in gentle folding to keep the mascarpone mixture light and airy, and in soaking the ladyfingers just enough so they’re flavorful but not soggy. This easy tiramisu dessert can be made ahead of time, which is perfect for when you want all the flavors to meld beautifully before serving.
From the first velvety spoonful to the last, this Italian tiramisu dessert proves why it has earned a place among the world’s most beloved sweets. Serve it chilled with a sprinkle of cocoa and maybe a few chocolate shavings for extra indulgence. Once you taste it, you’ll understand why this classic tiramisu recipe has stood the test of time and continues to win hearts around the globe.
What You’ll Need To Make This Easy Tiramisu Dessert
1. Mascarpone Cheese
- The heart of a true Italian tiramisu.
- Gives the dessert its signature rich, creamy texture.
- Neutral yet slightly sweet flavor blends beautifully with espresso.
2. Eggs – Separated
- Yolks provide richness and help thicken the cream.
- Whites are whipped to give the filling lightness and airiness.
- Use the freshest eggs possible for food safety and flavor.
3. Granulated Sugar
- Sweetens the mascarpone mixture without overpowering.
- Helps stabilize whipped egg whites.
- Dissolves easily into the cream.
4. Strong Espresso or Coffee
- The soul of the tiramisu dessert.
- Coffee flavor should be bold but smooth.
- Make fresh and let it cool before dipping the ladyfingers.
5. Coffee Liqueur
- Adds depth and a grown-up kick to the flavor.
- Popular choices: Kahlúa, Marsala wine, or dark rum.
6. Ladyfinger Biscuits
- These airy, slightly crisp biscuits soak up the espresso without falling apart.
- Provides structure for the layered dessert.
7. Cocoa Powder
- The finishing touch for a classic tiramisu.
- Adds bitterness to balance sweetness.
8. Heavy Cream
- Whipped into the mascarpone for extra richness.
- Makes the filling even more luxurious.
9. Vanilla Extract
- Rounds out flavors and adds warmth to the cream.
Equipment For Making Tiramisu Dessert Recipe
- Mixing bowls (various sizes)
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
- Rubber spatula
- Shallow dish for dipping ladyfingers
- 9×13-inch baking dish or trifle dish
- Fine mesh sieve for dusting cocoa
Quick Tips for the Best Tiramisu Dessert
- Don’t over-soak the ladyfingers – They’ll fall apart and make the dessert mushy.
- Chill overnight – The flavors deepen and the texture sets beautifully.
- Use quality mascarpone – It’s the star ingredient, so don’t skimp.
- Dust cocoa right before serving – This keeps it fresh and prevents it from absorbing moisture.
- Serve cold – The cream tastes best when chilled.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Tiramisu Dessert Recipe
- No-Bake Convenience – This is a no bake Italian dessert, so you won’t have to turn on your oven at all. Perfect for hot days or when you need a fuss-free sweet.
- Rich and Creamy Texture – The mascarpone filling is luxuriously smooth and pairs perfectly with the soft, coffee-soaked ladyfingers.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – You can prepare it a day in advance, making it an ideal make-ahead dessert for parties, holidays, or family dinners.
- Authentic Italian Flavor – With espresso, mascarpone, and cocoa powder, it delivers the classic tiramisu recipe taste loved worldwide.
- Crowd-Pleaser – This layered coffee dessert is a guaranteed hit whether served in a big dish, as tiramisu dessert cups, or even as a frozen tiramisu dessert.
- Customizable – You can make it alcohol-free, add chocolate shavings, or even turn it into a tiramisu cake for a twist.
Health Benefits of Easy Tiramisu Dessert
- Source of Energy
- Ladyfingers and sugar provide quick carbohydrates for an instant energy boost.
- Perfect as a treat after a long day or during special gatherings.
- Contains Calcium
- Mascarpone cheese and cream contribute calcium, which supports strong bones and teeth.
- Mood-Boosting Dessert
- The combination of coffee and sweet creamy layers can elevate your mood and provide a comforting feeling.
- Small Amount of Protein
- Eggs and mascarpone add a modest amount of protein, which helps with tissue repair and satiety.
- Antioxidants from Cocoa and Coffee
- Cocoa powder contains antioxidants that help fight free radicals.
- Coffee provides polyphenols, which may support heart health in moderation.
- Homemade Control Over Ingredients
- You can reduce sugar, use fresh eggs, or choose alcohol-free variations.
- Allows you to avoid artificial additives or preservatives often found in store-bought versions.
Conclusion
Easy Tiramisu Dessert is more than just a sweet treat, it’s a timeless Italian masterpiece that brings comfort, elegance, and indulgence to any table.
With its luscious layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone filling, and a dusting of cocoa, this no-bake dessert proves that simplicity can be incredibly luxurious.
Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a festive holiday, or a romantic evening, Tiramisu never fails to impress. Its make-ahead nature means less stress and more time to enjoy the company of your loved ones, while its versatility allows you to play with flavors to suit any occasion.
✅ Quick Tips: Read through the full recipe before diving in; it’s the best way to get a feel for the flow, prep time, and tools you’ll need. Think of it like scanning a map before a road trip: you’ll cook more confidently and avoid any surprises halfway through.
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Easy Tiramisu Dessert Recipe
Description
This easy tiramisu dessert is a creamy, indulgent, no-bake Italian classic layered with espresso-soaked ladyfingers, rich mascarpone cream, and a dusting of cocoa powder. It’s the perfect make-ahead dessert for family gatherings, dinner parties, or a cozy night in. With its melt-in-your-mouth texture and deep coffee flavor, this recipe is beginner-friendly yet impressive enough to rival any Italian bakery.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Prepare the coffee base
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Brew strong espresso or coffee and let it cool completely.
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If using coffee liqueur, stir it into the cooled coffee.
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Make the mascarpone cream
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In a large mixing bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar together until pale and thick.
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Add the mascarpone and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
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Whip the cream
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In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
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Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture.
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Whip the egg whites
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Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form.
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Fold gently into the mascarpone mixture for a light, airy texture.
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Assemble the layers
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Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture (don’t soak—just 1–2 seconds per side).
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Arrange a layer of coffee-dipped ladyfingers in your serving dish.
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Spread half of the mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers.
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Repeat with another layer of coffee-dipped ladyfingers and the remaining cream.
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Chill and serve
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Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours (overnight is best).
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Dust generously with cocoa powder just before serving.
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Nutrition Facts
Servings 12
Serving Size 1 square (approx. 150g)
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 410kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 26g40%
- Saturated Fat 15g75%
- Trans Fat 0.5g
- Cholesterol 160mg54%
- Sodium 85mg4%
- Potassium 120mg4%
- Total Carbohydrate 36g12%
- Dietary Fiber 1g4%
- Sugars 21g
- Protein 7g15%
- Vitamin A 950 IU
- Calcium 90 mg
- Iron 1.4 mg
- Vitamin D 50 IU
- Vitamin E 1.2 IU
- Vitamin K 2 mcg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Use Cold Mascarpone: This helps the cream mixture hold its shape and prevents it from becoming runny.
- Don't Over-Soak the Ladyfingers: A quick dip is all you need. If they are too soggy, the whole dessert will be a mess.
- Gently Fold in the Egg Whites: This step is crucial for an airy, light texture. Be careful not to deflate the whites.
- Allow for Ample Chill Time: The flavor and texture will improve dramatically with a long rest in the refrigerator.
- Use Fresh, Strong Espresso: The quality of your coffee is a key flavor component.
