Classic Tiramisu

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A rich Italian dessert layered with espresso-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cream, and cocoa powder. This Italian-inspired recipe, ready in about 30 minutes, layers ladyfingers, espresso, mascarpone cheese into a dessert worth slowing down for — great for weekend baking, holiday tables, or any time you want a sweet payoff at the end of a meal. Each serving lands at about 240 calories and feeds 8, so it slots into a weekend bake or a special-occasion dessert tray. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 30 min Serves 8 Italian cuisine 240 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a large bowl, beat 3 egg yolks with 1/2 cup sugar until pale and thick. Fold in 1 cup mascarpone cheese until smooth.
  2. Step 2: In a separate bowl, whisk 3 egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold into the mascarpone mixture until fully incorporated.
  3. Step 3: Dip ladyfingers in hot espresso and arrange in a 9-inch springform pan, pressing them into the bottom and up the sides.
  4. Step 4: Spread half the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers, then sprinkle with 1/4 cup cocoa powder and 1 oz chopped dark chocolate. Repeat with another layer of mascarpone and cocoa powder.
  5. Step 5: Top with sliced banana and remaining cocoa powder. Chill for at least 4 hours before serving.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Classic Tiramisu take to make?

Total time is about 30 minutes (30 min prep + 0 min cook). Most home bakers find this fits a weekend afternoon; chill or store as the recipe directs before serving.

How do I store leftover Classic Tiramisu?

Cool fully before storing. Most baked desserts keep at room temperature in an airtight container for 2–3 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Cream- or custard-based desserts must go in the fridge within 2 hours; reheat gently or serve cold per the recipe.

Can I substitute ingredients in Classic Tiramisu?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Classic Tiramisu for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 8 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 8). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Classic Tiramisu?

Italian desserts like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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