Classic Italian Tiramisu Recipe: 7 Easy Steps to Make This No-Bake Italian Dessert

If you’re looking for an easy, elegant, and utterly delicious dessert that doesn’t require baking, look no further. This Classic Italian Tiramisu Recipe is the ultimate indulgence—made with layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone custard, and fluffy whipped cream, all dusted with rich cocoa powder.

Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself to a sweet moment of luxury, this authentic tiramisu recipe is guaranteed to wow every time.

 

👉 Want more no-bake dessert ideas? Check out our No-Bake Cheesecake Collection.

 

---

🇮🇹 What Is Tiramisu?

Tiramisu, which translates to “pick me up” in Italian, is a traditional dessert originating from the Veneto region of Italy. Known for its combination of bold espresso flavor, delicate sweetness, and creamy texture, tiramisu has become a beloved dish worldwide.

Why This Classic Italian Tiramisu Recipe Is a Must-Make

✅ No baking required
✅ Perfect make-ahead treat
✅ Elegant presentation
✅ Deep, balanced flavors
✅ Crowd-pleasing for any occasion

Learn more about tiramisu’s history from La Cucina Italiana

Print

Classic Italian Tiramisu Recipe: 7 Easy Steps to Make This No-Bake Italian Dessert

---

• Author: Alissa
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

This Classic Italian Tiramisu is a rich and creamy no-bake dessert made with layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, a smooth mascarpone custard, and fluffy whipped cream, finished with a dusting of cocoa powder. It’s a timeless Italian treat perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or whenever you’re craving something indulgent and elegant.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the custard:

• 6 large egg yolks

• ¾ cup white granulated sugar

• ⅔ cup whole milk

For the whipped cream:

• 1¼ cups heavy cream

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

For the mascarpone layer:

• 1 pound (16 oz) mascarpone cheese, softened

For soaking:

• ¼ cup strong brewed coffee, cooled

• 2 tablespoons dark rum (optional)

• 2 packages (3 oz each) ladyfinger cookies (savoiardi)

For topping:

• 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder

---

Instructions

1. Make the Custard:
   In a saucepan, whisk together egg yolks and sugar until light. Stir in milk and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches a gentle boil. Boil for 1 minute, remove from heat, and refrigerate for 1 hour.

2. Whip the Cream:
   In a bowl, beat the heavy cream with vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.

3. Mix Custard and Mascarpone:
   Remove the chilled custard from the fridge and fold in the mascarpone cheese until smooth.

4. Combine Coffee and Rum:
   In a shallow bowl, mix cooled coffee and rum.

5. Assemble the Layers:
   Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture and arrange half in a 7×11-inch dish. Spread half of the mascarpone mixture on top, then half the whipped cream. Repeat layers.

6. Dust and Chill:
   Sift cocoa powder over the top layer. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4–6 hours, or overnight.

Notes

For an alcohol-free version, replace rum with extra brewed coffee or coffee extract.

Letting the tiramisu rest overnight enhances the flavor and texture.

Use high-quality mascarpone and espresso for the best results.

Don’t over-soak the ladyfingers to prevent sogginess.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-bake / Chilled
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 387
• Sugar: 13 g
• Sodium: 60 mg
• Fat: 31 g
• Saturated Fat: 17 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 23 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 7 g
• Cholesterol: 216 mg

Keywords: Classic Italian Tiramisu Recipe

---

⏲️ Tiramisu Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Chill Time: 5 hours
• Total Time: 5 hours 35 minutes
• Servings: 12
• Dish Size: 7×11-inch baking dish

---

🛒 Ingredients for Classic Italian Tiramisu Recipe

For the Custard:

• 6 large egg yolks
• ¾ cup white granulated sugar
• ⅔ cup whole milk

For the Whipped Cream:

• 1¼ cups heavy cream
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Mascarpone Layer:

• 1 pound (16 oz) mascarpone cheese

For Soaking and Layering:

• ¼ cup strong brewed coffee (cooled)
• 2 tablespoons dark rum (optional)
• 2 packages (3 oz each) ladyfinger cookies (savoiardi)

Garnish:

• 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder

Pro Tip: Choose authentic savoiardi for best results. You can find them online at Eataly (DoFollow)

---

🍳 How to Make Authentic Classic Italian Tiramisu Recipe – Step-by-Step Guide

💡 Step 1 – Make the Custard Base

In a medium saucepan, whisk egg yolks and sugar until smooth. Add milk and heat over medium, stirring constantly. Once it begins to boil, let it bubble for 1 minute. Remove from heat, cool slightly, cover, and chill in the refrigerator for 1 hour.

💡 Step 2 – Whip the Cream

Beat heavy cream and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. This adds fluffiness and volume to the tiramisu layers.

💡 Step 3 – Mix in the Mascarpone

Once the custard is chilled, blend it with softened mascarpone cheese until smooth and creamy. This forms the iconic middle layer of your Classic Italian Tiramisu Recipe.

💡 Step 4 – Combine Coffee and Rum

In a small bowl, mix brewed coffee and dark rum. This soaking liquid gives tiramisu its signature mocha flavor. Use extra coffee instead of rum for a kid-friendly version.

---

🍽️ Assembling the Classic Italian Tiramisu Recipe

💡 Step 5 – First Layer

Lightly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture—no more than 2–3 seconds. Arrange them in a single layer at the bottom of your dish.

Spread half of the mascarpone mixture on top, then half of the whipped cream, smoothing it out evenly.

💡 Step 6 – Repeat Layers

Repeat the dipping, layering, and spreading process. Finish with the last layer of whipped cream.

💡 Step 7 – Dust with Cocoa

Use a fine mesh sieve to sprinkle unsweetened cocoa powder generously over the top.

---

❄️ Chill and Set

Cover and refrigerate the tiramisu for at least 4–6 hours, ideally overnight. This step is crucial for allowing the flavors to meld and the dessert to firm up for slicing.

---

🧠 Tips for the Best Homemade Classic Italian Tiramisu Recipe

✅ Use High-Quality Mascarpone

For a truly creamy texture, always use Italian mascarpone—don’t substitute with cream cheese.

✅ Brew Strong Espresso

The richer the coffee, the more flavorful your dessert. Use a moka pot or espresso machine.

✅ Don’t Oversoak

Dipping the ladyfingers too long will cause them to fall apart. A quick dip is all you need.

✅ Chill Overnight

Letting the tiramisu sit overnight improves both texture and taste.

---

🧾 Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 387
• Total Fat: 31g
• Saturated Fat: 17g
• Cholesterol: 216mg
• Sodium: 60mg
• Carbohydrates: 23g
• Sugars: 13g
• Protein: 7g

Looking for lighter dessert options? Visit our Healthy Dessert Recipes.

---

📦 Storage Tips

• Refrigerator: Store in the fridge up to 4 days, tightly covered.
• Freezer: Freeze (without cocoa topping) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and dust before serving.

---

🍷 What to Serve with Classic Tiramisu

• Freshly brewed espresso or cappuccino
• A glass of Vin Santo or other dessert wine
• Garnish with berries or mint leaves for extra flair

---

🔁 Variations on the Classic Italian Tiramisu Recipe

🍓 Fruit Tiramisu

Add sliced strawberries or raspberries between layers for a fresh twist.

🍫 Chocolate Tiramisu

Layer in shaved dark chocolate for deeper richness.

🥥 Vegan Tiramisu

Use coconut whipped cream, almond milk, and plant-based mascarpone.

🍮 Alcohol-Free

Skip the rum and use extra espresso or coffee extract.

Try our Hello Fresh Brownie Recipe for a summery spin.

🌍 A Slice of Italy in Every Bite

This Classic Italian Tiramisu Recipe is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of Italian culinary tradition. With every bite, you’ll experience the delicate balance of bold coffee, smooth cream, and soft ladyfingers.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or planning a romantic evening, tiramisu is a timeless treat that fits every occasion.

Learn more about traditional Italian desserts at GialloZafferano

📌 Final Thoughts

There’s a reason why this Classic Italian Tiramisu Recipe is a favorite across generations. It’s easy, elegant, and unforgettable. Plus, it tastes even better when made a day in advance, making it the perfect dessert for busy hosts.

So go ahead—whisk up some magic and enjoy a little dolce vita in every spoonful.

If you love no-bake treats like this, explore more ideas in our No-Bake Dessert Recipes.

🍽️ How to Serve and Present Tiramisu Like a Pro

While tiramisu is effortless to make, a little care in serving and presentation can elevate it from rustic to restaurant-worthy. Here are some tips to make your Classic Italian Tiramisu recipe shine:

1. Chill It Overnight

Letting it set for 8–12 hours allows the layers to hold and the flavors to deepen. The texture becomes perfectly sliceable without being soggy.

2. Serve in Slices or Cups

• For a traditional look, cut squares from a baking dish and use a flat spatula to plate them cleanly.

• For individual servings, layer tiramisu in small mason jars, stemless wine glasses, or espresso cups for visual appeal.

3. Garnish with Style

• A sprig of fresh mint

• Dark chocolate shavings or curls

• A dusting of cinnamon for a warm touch

• A coffee bean on top for symbolism and taste

These small flourishes add elegance and help distinguish your tiramisu from store-bought versions.

 

❤️ The Spirit of Tasting Tiramisu

There’s something deeply comforting and romantic about that very first bite of tiramisu. The bitterness of espresso melts into the creamy mascarpone, while the whisper of cocoa dust reminds you that dessert can be soulful—not just sweet.

Tasting tiramisu is like savoring a memory—a culinary hug that’s both bold and gentle. It’s the kind of dessert that doesn’t shout for attention but quietly impresses with its layers of complexity. One spoonful is rich with flavor, the next with nostalgia.

Maybe it’s because tiramisu, like life, is about balance: bold yet soft, structured yet airy, indulgent yet light. It’s a dessert that invites pause — a moment to slow down, sip your espresso, and smile.

So whether you’re sharing it on a Sunday evening with loved ones or enjoying a quiet slice after dinner, let tiramisu remind you of the dolce vita — the sweet life, in its most delicious form.