The Best Homemade Tiramisu Recipe

Only a few steps stand between you and indulging in the creamiest homemade tiramisu you’ve ever tasted—discover the secret today.

Share your Recipe

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This tiramisu recipe is simple, delicious, and sure to impress your family and friends. You’ll love how easy it is to make with just a few basic ingredients.

  • Creamy and dreamy – Layers of fluffy mascarpone cream melt in your mouth.
  • Coffee kick – Espresso-soaked ladyfingers give it the perfect balance of sweetness and bold flavor.
  • No baking needed – Just assemble, chill, and enjoy a dessert that tastes like it came from a fancy café.

Recipe

italian dessert mascarpone ladyfingers

Tiramisu is a classic Italian dessert that combines rich mascarpone cheese, coffee-soaked ladyfingers, and a dusting of cocoa powder for a decadent treat. This homemade version is simple to prepare and perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

  • 6 egg yolks
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup mascarpone cheese
  • 1 1/2 cups strong brewed coffee, cooled
  • 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)
  • 1 package (about 24) ladyfingers
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together egg yolks and sugar until pale and creamy.
  2. Add mascarpone cheese and mix until smooth and well combined.
  3. In a shallow dish, combine the cooled coffee and coffee liqueur (if using).
  4. Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture, ensuring they are moist but not soggy.
  5. Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of a serving dish.
  6. Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers.
  7. Repeat with another layer of soaked ladyfingers and the remaining mascarpone mixture.
  8. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  9. Before serving, dust the top with cocoa powder.

Notes

Use freshly brewed coffee for the best flavor. For a non-alcoholic version, omit the coffee liqueur.

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Shallow dish
  • Serving dish

Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 0 minutes

Chilling Time: 4 hours

Cuisine

Italian

Serving

Serves 8-10

Nutrition

This homemade tiramisu recipe provides a rich and indulgent treat. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:

CaloriesFat (g)Carbs (g)Protein (g)Sugar (g)Sodium (mg)
320183062080

What To Serve With It

I love pairing my homemade tiramisu with a strong Italian coffee like espresso, which complements its rich flavor perfectly. Sometimes, I’ll add a side of fresh berries or sliced citrus to balance the sweetness with a bit of tartness. It’s a simple way to make the dessert feel even more special.

Italian Coffee Pairings

Since tiramisu is all about rich coffee flavors, pairing it with the right drink can make every bite even better. I love serving it with a strong espresso—its bold bitterness balances the dessert’s sweetness perfectly. If you prefer something smoother, a cappuccino’s creamy foam complements the mascarpone beautifully. For a lighter touch, try an iced latte; its coolness contrasts the tiramisu’s richness. And if you’re feeling fancy, a shot of amaretto-laced coffee adds a nutty twist. Whatever you choose, the key is letting the coffee enhance, not overpower, the dessert. Trust me, it’s a match made in heaven!

Fresh Fruit Accompaniments

With its creamy layers and bold coffee flavor, tiramisu shines even more when paired with fresh fruit. I love serving it with juicy berries like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries—they add a sweet, tangy contrast that feels like a burst of sunshine. Sliced bananas or ripe mango chunks bring a tropical twist, while citrus segments like orange or grapefruit cut through the richness. For a bit of crunch, I’ll sometimes add a handful of pomegranate seeds or a sprinkle of chopped kiwi. Fresh fruit not only brightens the dessert but also makes it feel a little lighter, perfect for any occasion!

Share your Recipe