Tiramisu - the original recipe

Tiramisu - The Original Recipe

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooling time: 8 hours (ideally overnight)
Number of servings: 8

Tiramisu is an iconic dessert with a fascinating story behind it. Its name comes from the Italian words "tira mi su," which translates to "pick me up," referring to the energizing effect of the coffee in its ingredients. This classic recipe is appreciated for its creamy texture and intense coffee flavor, combined with the delicate aroma of mascarpone. Whether enjoyed at the end of a meal or as an afternoon snack, tiramisu is always an excellent choice.

Ingredients:
- 6 eggs (separated)
- 6 tablespoons of sugar
- 500 g of mascarpone
- 500 ml of strong, cold coffee
- Unsweetened cocoa powder for garnish
- 1 pack (double) of Savoiardi biscuits
- A pinch of salt
- Butter for greasing the pan

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by preparing the ingredients. Make sure the eggs are fresh, as they are essential for the creaminess of the dessert. Choose a quality coffee, preferably espresso, to achieve an intense flavor. The recipe does not include whipped cream, so the mascarpone is the star. Ensure it is at room temperature for easier mixing.

Step 2: The mascarpone cream
In a large bowl, add the egg yolks and sugar. Use a manual whisk or a mixer to beat the ingredients until they become a white, airy paste. This process is crucial, as the incorporated air will make the cream easier to digest and fluffier.

Add the mascarpone, one tablespoon at a time, mixing well after each addition. This will prevent lumps from forming and ensure a smooth texture.

In another bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form. This step adds volume and aeration to the cream. Using a spatula, gently fold the egg whites into the mascarpone cream with light, upward motions to avoid deflating the mixture.

Step 3: Preparing the biscuits
Put the cold coffee in a deep bowl. If desired, you can add a little sugar to the coffee, but keep in mind that the dessert will become sweeter. Start dipping each biscuit in the coffee, being careful not to leave them for more than 2 seconds to avoid them becoming too soft. It is recommended to use Savoiardi biscuits, as they have a specific texture that absorbs coffee perfectly.

Step 4: Assembling the tiramisu
Grease a long dish with butter to prevent sticking. Arrange the biscuits vertically on the bottom of the dish to form the first layer. Once you have completely covered the bottom, add half of the prepared cream and spread it evenly, being careful not to break the air bubbles.

Add a second layer of biscuits, this time placing them horizontally. This arrangement will give an interesting appearance to the dessert. Spread the remaining cream on top and smooth it out gently.

Step 5: Finishing
Use a small sieve to generously dust cocoa over the entire surface of the tiramisu. The cocoa is not just a decorative element; it perfectly complements the flavors of the coffee and mascarpone. Now, cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dessert to cool and set, ideally overnight.

Step 6: Serving
Once the tiramisu has cooled sufficiently, it is ready to serve. Cut into portions and serve on individual plates, being careful to keep the layers intact. You can add a small mint leaf for a fresh look and a pop of color.

Serving suggestions: Tiramisu pairs perfectly with espresso coffee or a sweet wine, such as a dessert wine. Additionally, if you want a more sophisticated version, you can add a splash of coffee liqueur to the coffee for soaking the biscuits.

Practical tip: If you want to add an aromatic note, you can replace part of the coffee with a flavored espresso, such as cinnamon or vanilla. You can also use various types of cocoa, such as white cocoa or chocolate-flavored cocoa, to experiment with different textures and flavors.

Calories and nutritional benefits: A serving of tiramisu contains approximately 400-450 calories. This dessert provides a source of protein from eggs and mascarpone, but it is important to consume it in moderation due to its sugar and fat content.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can tiramisu be frozen?
It is not recommended to freeze tiramisu, as its texture may be altered. It is best to keep it in the refrigerator and consume it within a few days.

- Can I use other types of cheese?
Although mascarpone is the traditional ingredient, you can experiment with ricotta or a combination of cottage cheese, but the taste will be different.

- How can I make tiramisu without alcohol?
The basic recipe is already alcohol-free, but make sure the coffee does not contain additives.

Now that you have the complete recipe, all that’s left is to get cooking! Tiramisu is a dessert that will surely impress family and friends, and the satisfaction of making it yourself will be a bonus. Enjoy every bite!

 Ingredients: 6 eggs, separated 6 tablespoons of sugar 500 g mascarpone 500 ml strong, cold coffee black cocoa for decoration 1 package (double) of savoiardi ladyfingers

 Tags:  tiramisu mascarpone italy