Description
This No-Bake Tiramisu is an elegant yet easy dessert featuring coffee-soaked ladyfingers and a rich mascarpone cream, dusted with cocoa. It’s perfect for busy families or special dinners, offering a delightful Italian bakery experience.
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups strong brewed coffee, cooled (or espresso, for dipping)
- 0.25 cup (50g) granulated sugar (sweetens the coffee)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (adds warmth)
- 16 ounces (450g) mascarpone cheese, softened (the creamy base; or full-fat cream cheese for a tangier, budget-friendly option)
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream, chilled (for lightness; ensure it’s very cold for best whipping)
- 1 (7-ounce (200g)) package ladyfingers (classic sponge)
- Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting (for bitterness and finish)
Instructions
- Prepare Coffee Mixture: Brew coffee and let it cool completely. Stir in the sugar and vanilla extract until dissolved. Pour this aromatic mixture into a shallow dish, ready for dipping.
- Make Mascarpone Cream: In a large bowl, whisk the softened mascarpone until smooth and airy. In a separate chilled bowl, beat the heavy cream until stiff peaks form (it should hold its shape). Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone until just combined.
- Assemble Tiramisu: Quickly dip each ladyfinger, one by one, into the coffee mixture (just a second or two per side so they absorb but don’t become soggy). Arrange a single layer evenly in an 8×8 or 9×9 inch dish. Spread half of the mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers. Repeat these layers. (If ladyfingers look dry after layering, lightly drizzle 1-2 tablespoons of leftover coffee mixture over them.)
- Chill and Dust: Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4-6 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the dessert to set firmly. Before serving, dust generously with unsweetened cocoa powder using a fine-mesh sieve for an elegant finish.
Notes
For deeper flavor, opt for organic cocoa powder or high-quality espresso. Use gluten-free ladyfingers for dietary needs. Regular instant coffee works well if espresso is not on hand. Always use freshly brewed, cooled coffee and quality mascarpone for best results. Mascarpone cream should be thick and airy; ladyfingers moist but not soggy. The tiramisu should be firm when chilled. For a faster method, chill in the freezer for 1-2 hours, checking frequently. For a healthier twist, reduce sugar slightly or use decaffeinated coffee. To avoid soggy ladyfingers, dip quickly (just a second or two per side). Ensure heavy cream is very cold and beaten to stiff peaks to prevent runny cream.
- Prep Time: 35 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 90 g)
- Calories: 350 calories
- Sugar: 25 g
- Sodium: 100 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
Keywords: easy dessert, no-bake, tiramisu, mascarpone, coffee, ladyfingers, Italian, quick dessert, elegant, cocoa