Italian tiramisu recipe: Get to know this delicious dessert

Tiramisu is one of the most popular and appreciated Italian desserts in the world. With its irresistible combination of coffee, cocoa and mascarpone cheese flavors, tiramisu is a true indulgence for lovers of Italian cuisine. In this blogpost, we'll explore the history behind this classic dessert and share an authentic recipe for you to try at home.

History of Tiramisu

Tiramisu has its roots in the Veneto region of northeastern Italy, more specifically in the city of Treviso. Although the exact origin of tiramisu is a matter of debate, it is believed that the dessert was created in the 17th century. The name "tiramisu" is an Italian word meaning "lift me up" or "pull me up", a reference to the stimulating effect of the coffee in the dessert.

Over the years, tiramisu gained popularity throughout Italy and eventually became an iconic dish of Italian cuisine around the world. Today, it is common to find tiramisu on Italian restaurant menus and in homemade recipes around the globe.

Traditional ingredients

Before we dive into the recipe, let's take a look at the traditional ingredients of tiramisu:

• Mascarpone cheese: a creamy and mild cheese, essential for the texture and flavor of tiramisu.
• Eggs: egg yolks and whites are used to create the creamy base of tiramisu.
• Sugar: adds sweetness to the dessert and helps balance the flavors.
• Coffee: strong coffee is used to soak the cookies.
• Liqueurs: tiramisu often contains liqueurs such as Marsala, brandy or rum, which add a touch of alcoholic flavor to the dessert.
• Savoiardi cookies (or champagne cookies): lightly sweetened cookies soaked in coffee, which form the layers of the tiramisu.
• Cocoa powder: sprinkled on top of the tiramisu to add a touch of chocolate and finish off the presentation.

Now that we know the basic ingredients, let's dive into the recipe step by step.

Tiramisu recipe

Ingredients:

• 500g mascarpone cheese
• 4 eggs, separated into yolks and whites
• 150g sugar
• 300ml strong, cold coffee
• 2 tablespoons of coffee liqueur (optional)
• 200g Savoiardi cookies
• Cocoa powder for sprinkling

Instructions:

In a large bowl, whisk the egg yolks with half the sugar until the mixture is light and thick. Add the mascarpone cheese to the egg yolk and sugar mixture and stir until smooth. Set aside.

In another bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gradually add the rest of the sugar while continuing to beat the egg whites.

Carefully add the egg whites to the mascarpone cheese and yolks mixture, folding gently until everything is combined.

In a shallow bowl, mix the cold coffee with the coffee liqueur, if using.

Quickly dip the Savoiardi cookies in the coffee mixture and place them in one layer on a plate or serving dish.

Spread half of the mascarpone cheese mixture over the soaked cookies.

Repeat the process with another layer of soaked cookies and the remaining mascarpone cheese mixture.

Cover the tiramisu and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, to firm up and develop the flavors.

Before serving, sprinkle cocoa powder generously over the tiramisu.

Cut into individual portions and serve chilled.

Service Tips

For an extra touch of flavor, you can add dark chocolate shavings or cocoa powder sprinkled between the layers of mascarpone cheese and cookies.

Try replacing the coffee liqueur with liqueurs such as rum or brandy to vary the taste of your tiramisu.

Serve the tiramisu in individual bowls for an elegant presentation at dinner parties or special occasions.

Tiramisu is a truly indulgent and satisfying dessert, perfect for sharing with friends and family. With its irresistible blend of flavors and textures, this tiramisu recipe is an authentic tribute to Italy's rich culinary tradition. 

Try making it at home and enjoy this classic treat in your own kitchen!

See also: How to make a simple bread pudding: Step-by-step and full recipe

April 27th, 2024