Tiramisu recipe with sponge cake
Tiramisu – a refined and creamy dessert that combines the intense flavors of coffee with the delicacy of mascarpone, is undoubtedly one of the most beloved cakes in the world. Whether you are preparing it for an anniversary, a special celebration, or simply to indulge your family, today's recipe will surely become a favorite in your home. Additionally, I have a personal story related to this dessert, as every time I make it, I think of my son, Cristian, who adores it.
Total preparation time: 1 hour
Baking time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 12
Ingredients
For the sponge:
- 8 eggs (preferably fresh, from free-range hens)
- 8 tablespoons of sugar
- 8 tablespoons of flour
- 1 packet of baking powder
For the Tiramisu cream:
- 4 eggs (also fresh)
- 8 tablespoons of sugar
- 500 g mascarpone (make sure it is high quality for an authentic taste)
- 300 ml liquid cream (preferably with a fat content of at least 30%)
- 10 g gelatin (properly hydrated)
- 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar
- Amaretto liqueur or almond essence (depending on preference)
For soaking:
- 1 cup of espresso coffee (freshly brewed for intensity)
- 1/2 cup of milk
- Sugar to taste
Preparing the Sponge
1. Preparing the batter: Start by separating the egg whites from the yolks. Beat the egg whites with a mixer on medium speed until they become frothy, then gradually add the sugar. Continue mixing until you achieve a dense, glossy foam – this is the key to a fluffy sponge.
2. Adding the yolks: Incorporate the yolks, one at a time, gently mixing to avoid losing the air in the egg whites.
3. Flour and baking powder: Sift the flour together with the baking powder and gradually add them to the mixture, stirring with a spatula in circular motions from top to bottom to maintain the airy texture.
4. Baking: Pour the mixture into a 26 cm round baking pan lined with parchment paper, and bake at 180 degrees Celsius for 25-30 minutes, or until the sponge is firm to the touch and passes the toothpick test. Let it cool completely.
Preparing the Tiramisu Cream
1. Beating the eggs: In a bowl, beat the 4 eggs with the sugar until the mixture becomes creamy and increases in volume.
2. Cooking in a double boiler: Place the bowl over a pot of hot water (double boiler) and continue to whisk constantly with a whisk. The cream should thicken, but do not let the eggs coagulate. Once it reaches a consistency similar to that of sour cream, remove from heat.
3. Hydrating the gelatin: Soak the gelatin in 50 ml of water for 10 minutes. Then, gently heat it over low heat until it completely dissolves, and add it to the warm cream, mixing well.
4. Incorporating the mascarpone: Allow the cream to cool slightly, then add the mascarpone, mixing slowly with a mixer on low speed.
5. Whipping the cream: In another bowl, whip the liquid cream with the 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar until it becomes firm. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone cream.
6. Adding flavors: Add the Amaretto liqueur or almond essence, to taste. Here you can experiment – if you prefer a less sweet taste, you can reduce the amount of sugar or use vanilla essence.
Assembling the Tiramisu
1. Cutting the sponge: Once the sponge is completely cooled, cut it into 3 equal slices with a knife.
2. Preparing the syrup: Mix the freshly brewed espresso coffee with the milk and sugar, adjusting the sweetness to your preference.
3. Soaking the sponge: Dip each slice of sponge into the coffee syrup, ensuring it does not become too soft, but is moist enough to add flavor.
4. Filling: Place the first slice of sponge on a serving platter, add a generous layer of cream, and continue with the second slice, repeating the process until all sponge slices are used, finishing with a layer of cream.
5. Decorating: You can decorate the cake with cocoa powder, grated chocolate, or a chocolate glaze, as I did. Be creative!
A Personal Note
I love to serve Tiramisu with a glass of sweet wine or aromatic coffee, and around the table, we share beautiful memories related to the times we made it. It is a dessert that brings people together, and each slice is filled with love.
Nutritional Benefits
Tiramisu is not only delicious but also offers nutritional benefits. Mascarpone provides healthy fats, while coffee is rich in antioxidants. However, it is best consumed in moderation, considering the sugar and calorie content. A serving of Tiramisu has approximately 400 calories, so it is a dessert best enjoyed on special occasions.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other types of alcohol?
Yes, you can experiment with other liqueurs, such as Baileys or Rum.
2. How can I make Tiramisu without eggs?
You can use a mixture of silken tofu or a combination of Greek yogurt and cream for an egg-free version.
3. How long does Tiramisu last?
Tiramisu keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, covered with plastic wrap.
Variations
- Fruit Tiramisu: You can add layers of fresh fruit, such as raspberries or strawberries, between the layers.
- Chocolate Tiramisu: Add cocoa to the mascarpone cream or use melted chocolate in the coffee syrup.
- Vegan Tiramisu: Use tofu or coconut yogurt instead of mascarpone and an egg replacer to create a vegan version.
In conclusion, Tiramisu is more than just a simple cake – it is an experience. Each step of the recipe invites you to create unforgettable memories in the kitchen. So, let’s get to work and enjoy an incredible dessert together!
Ingredients: base: 8 eggs, 8 tablespoons sugar, 8 tablespoons flour, 1 packet baking powder, tiramisu cream: 4 eggs, 8 tablespoons sugar, 500 g mascarpone, 300 ml liquid cream, 10 g gelatin, 2 tablespoons powdered sugar, amaretto liqueur or almond essence. for soaking: 1 cup espresso coffee, 1/2 cup milk, sugar to taste
