Classic Tiramisu Recipe (Easier Than You Think)

Tiramisu has a reputation for being one of those “fancy” desserts — the kind you order at restaurants but never attempt at home. But the truth? Tiramisu is surprisingly simple to make. There’s no baking, no complicated techniques, and no special equipment required.

The hardest part of making tiramisu isn’t the mixing or layering, it’s waiting for it to chill in the fridge.

This classic tiramisu recipe is rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced with coffee and cocoa. Once you realize how straightforward it is, you’ll never be intimidated by it again.

Why This Tiramisu Recipe Works

• No oven required

• Simple ingredients

• Classic, authentic flavor

• Light yet creamy texture

• Perfect make-ahead dessert

The magic of tiramisu comes from the contrast: airy mascarpone cream, coffee-soaked ladyfingers, and a light dusting of cocoa powder. Time in the fridge allows everything to set and meld together — that’s where the real transformation happens.

Ingredients for Tiramisu

Mascarpone Filling

• 5 egg yolks

• ¼ cup sugar

• 500 g mascarpone

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 5 egg whites

For Assembly

• 1.5 cups strong brewed coffee, cooled

• 24–30 ladyfingers

• Cocoa powder, for dusting

How to Make Tiramisu (Step-by-Step)

1. Make the Egg Yolk Base

In a large bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar until the mixture becomes pale yellow and creamy. This step creates the rich foundation of the mascarpone filling.

2. Add Mascarpone

Gently fold in the mascarpone and vanilla extract until smooth and fully combined. Take your time here, you want a silky, lump-free mixture.

3. Whip the Egg Whites

In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites until stiff peaks form. This adds lightness and gives tiramisu its signature airy texture.

Carefully fold the whipped egg whites into the mascarpone mixture, working gently to keep the filling light and fluffy.

Assembling the Tiramisu

4. Dip the Ladyfingers

Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee for 1–2 seconds only. Too long and they’ll become soggy — a quick dip is all you need.

5. Layer the Dessert

Arrange a layer of coffee-dipped ladyfingers in the bottom of your dish. Spread half of the mascarpone mixture evenly over the top.

Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and finish with the remaining mascarpone cream.

6. Dust and Chill

Generously dust the top with cocoa powder. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.

This resting time is essential — it allows the layers to set and the flavors to fully develop.

Tips for Perfect Tiramisu

• Use cold mascarpone for best texture

• Don’t oversoak the ladyfingers

• Chill overnight if possible — tiramisu gets better with time

• Dust cocoa powder just before serving for the cleanest look

Make-Ahead & Storage

Tiramisu is an ideal make-ahead dessert. It can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Leftovers will keep well for up to 3 days, covered tightly.

A Dessert Worth the Wait

If you’ve ever been intimidated by tiramisu, this recipe proves there’s no reason to be. Simple ingredients, gentle mixing, and a little patience are all it takes to create a truly classic dessert that feels special every time.

Once you try making tiramisu at home, you may never go back to store-bought again.