
Tiramisu has always been a delightful indulgence in my life growing up, a dessert that transcends borders and cultures with its irresistible flavors. Despite its Italian origins, Tiramisu found its way into my family’s repertoire of favorite treats, becoming one of many beloved staples at our gatherings and celebrations. Its luscious layers of creamy mascarpone cheese, delicately soaked ladyfingers, and a hint of coffee and liqueur create a symphony of flavors that never fails to captivate the taste buds.
Today, we’re diving into the details of this classic dessert, exploring its light and airy creamy mixture, and sharing tips for serving it in cups or trays.
Equipment Needed:
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- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or Electric mixer
- Spatula
- 12 x 12 Square baking dish or individual serving cups
- Espresso maker or strong brewed coffee
Ingredients:
- 6 egg yolks
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 4 tablespoons rum
- 4 tablespoons coffee liqueur
- 16 oz mascarpone cheese
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 vanilla bean, split, and seeds scraped
- Brewed coffee or espresso
- 36 ladyfinger cookies
- Cocoa powder, for dusting
Instructions:
- Prepare the Creamy Mixture: In a heatproof bowl, whisk together the sugar and egg yolks, creating a creamy mixture. Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water, ensuring the bottom of the bowl doesn’t touch the water. As the gentle heat from the steam underneath gradually warms the mixture, the sugar dissolves, and the egg yolks thicken, resulting in a velvety-smooth consistency perfect for tiramisu. Add 2 tbsp of rum and 2 tbsp of coffee liqueur and mix until well incorporated. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Whip the Mascarpone Mixture: In another bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese until smooth and creamy. Once the egg mixture has cooled, fold in the mascarpone cheese until thoroughly mixed. Set aside. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream and vanilla bean seeds until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until well combined.
- Assemble the Tiramisu: Dip each ladyfinger cookie into the brewed coffee with 2 tbsp of rum and 2 tbsp of coffee liquor, ensuring they are soaked but not overly saturated. The best tip is to quickly dip the ladyfingers in the coffee and liquor mixture to ensure that they don’t get overly soggy. Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of the baking dish or serving cups. Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers. Repeat with another layer of soaked ladyfingers and the remaining mascarpone mixture.
- Chill and Set: Cover the tiramisu with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.
- Serve: Before serving, dust the top of the tiramisu with cocoa powder for a finishing touch of elegance.











Serving Options:
- Tiramisu Parfait: For an elegant presentation, serve the tiramisu in individual serving cups, layering the ladyfingers and creamy mixture for a stunning visual effect.
- Tiramisu Trifle: Layer the tiramisu ingredients in a large glass trifle dish, alternating between ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone mixture, and a dusting of cocoa powder for a stunning presentation. Alternatively, assemble the tiramisu in a square baking dish, cutting it into neat squares for serving on plates.
- Tiramisu Cake: Transform tiramisu into a show-stopping cake by layering ladyfingers and mascarpone cream between moist sponge cake layers, then frosting with whipped cream and dusting with cocoa powder for a decadent dessert centerpiece.
- Tiramisu Cups: Serve tiramisu in edible chocolate cups for a fun twist on the classic dessert, adding a whimsical touch to any special occasion or celebration.
Tips and Tricks:
- Store tiramisu covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Tightly wrap it with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container to preserve its freshness.
- Serve tiramisu chilled, straight from the refrigerator, for the best flavor and texture.
- Tiramisu tastes even better after chilling in the fridge overnight because all the flavors blend perfectly, making it extra delicious!
- Customize your tiramisu by adding a layer of shaved chocolate or a sprinkle of espresso powder on top before dusting it with cocoa powder.
Substitutions/Alternatives:
- Substitute the rum and coffee liqueur with additional brewed coffee or espresso for a non-alcoholic version.
- Replace the ladyfinger cookies with sponge cake or pound cake slices for a different texture.
- Experiment with flavored liqueurs or flavored coffees to add a unique twist to your tiramisu, such as vanilla, hazelnut, or caramel.
Indulge in the luxurious flavors and velvety textures of homemade tiramisu, a versatile dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served in cups for an intimate gathering or in a tray for a grand celebration, this classic Italian treat is sure to leave a lasting impression on your guests.
Have fun with this recipe. Feel free to share what you have done in the comments below or share a picture of you enjoying this delicious meal!
Bom apetite! Enjoy your meal!
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Heavenly Homemade Tiramisu
Equipment
- mixing bowls
- Whisk or Electric mixer
- Spatula
- 12 x 12 Square baking dish or individual serving cups
- Espresso maker or strong brewed coffee
Ingredients
- 6 egg yolks
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 4 tablespoons rum
- 4 tablespoons coffee liqueur
- 16 oz mascarpone cheese
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 vanilla bean split, and seeds scraped
- Brewed coffee or espresso
- 36 ladyfinger cookies
- Cocoa powder for dusting
Instructions
- In a heatproof bowl, whisk together the sugar and egg yolks, creating a creamy mixture. Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water, ensuring the bottom of the bowl doesn't touch the water. As the gentle heat from the steam underneath gradually warms the mixture, the sugar dissolves, and the egg yolks thicken, resulting in a velvety-smooth consistency perfect for tiramisu. Add 2 tbsp of rum and 2 tbsp of coffee liqueur and mix until well incorporated. Remove from heat and let cool.
- In another bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese until smooth and creamy. Once the egg mixture has cooled, fold in the mascarpone cheese until thoroughly mixed. Set aside. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream and vanilla bean seeds until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until well combined.
- Dip each ladyfinger cookie into the brewed coffee with 2 tbsp of rum and 2 tbsp of coffee liquor, ensuring they are soaked but not overly saturated. The best tip is to quickly dip the ladyfingers in the coffee and liquor mixture to ensure that they don't get overly soggy.
- Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of the baking dish or serving cups. Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers. Repeat with another layer of soaked ladyfingers and the remaining mascarpone mixture.
- Cover the tiramisu with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.
- Before serving, dust the top of the tiramisu with cocoa powder for a finishing touch of elegance.
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