The Best Homemade Tiramisu Recipe – Authentic & Easy
My brother and I celebrating our 32nd and 35th birthdays together with my kids Luca and Mila.
Looking for the best homemade tiramisu recipe that’s rich, creamy, and absolutely irresistible? This authentic Italian tiramisu has become a staple in my family, winning over my Italian in-laws!
How This Tiramisu Became a Family Favorite
When I met my husband, Joey, I quickly realized I had my work cut out for me in the kitchen. His Italian mother and Nonna are master chefs, cooking from instinct rather than recipes. I love to bake, but I need structure—so when I set out to make tiramisu from scratch, I knew I had to get it just right.
After testing a few recipes, I perfected this creamy, dreamy tiramisu—and to my surprise, Joey declared it the best he’s ever had! The real test? His family’s approval. It quickly became the go-to dessert for holidays and celebrations, and now, I’m sharing my recipe with you!
Secrets to the Perfect Tiramisu
Before we dive into the step-by-step tiramisu recipe, here are three key tips for the best results:
✅ Make it a day in advance! Letting it chill overnight allows the flavors to blend beautifully.
✅ Use two metal bowls—one for whipping cream (put it directly in the freezer before starting the recipe) and one for making a double boiler.
✅ Brew your espresso first so it has time to cool before dipping the ladyfingers.
Authentic Italian Tiramisu Recipe
Ingredients:
3 packages soft ladyfingers
9x12 tray (I use a disposable aluminum tray)
1 cup sugar
6 egg yolks
8 oz mascarpone cheese
1 pint heavy cream
Freshly brewed espresso
½ cup Kahlua (or another coffee liqueur)
Cocoa powder for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1️. Prepare the custard: In a heatproof metal bowl, whisk together sugar and egg yolks. Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method) and whisk constantly until sugar dissolves. Set aside to cool.
2️. Mix mascarpone: Add mascarpone cheese to the egg mixture and whisk until smooth.
3️. Whip the cream: Remove your chilled metal bowl from the freezer. Beat heavy cream until soft peaks form, then gently fold it into the mascarpone mixture in batches to keep it fluffy.
4️. Prepare the espresso mix: Combine cooled espresso with Kahlua in a shallow dish.
5️. Assemble the tiramisu:
Dip ladyfingers one by one into the espresso mixture (don’t soak too long or they’ll get soggy).
Layer ladyfingers in the tray, then spread 1/3 of the cream mixture on top.
Repeat two more times, ending with a final layer of cream.
6️. Dust with cocoa powder (*Fun fact: As a newcomer to Tiramisu, I thought cocoa powder was simply a decorative element and that every inch of the top cream layer should be covered. However, it does add an extra layer of flavor to the bite and if you’re like my husband––you’ll find it does a disservice to the dessert! For this reason, I put the absolute lightest layer possible.)
7️. Chill overnight for the best texture and taste.
Why You’ll Love This Tiramisu
✔ No-bake dessert – Perfect for easy entertaining.
✔ Rich, creamy, and authentic – Just like traditional Italian tiramisu.
✔ Customizable – Adjust sweetness, use decaf espresso, or swap Kahlua for vanilla extract.
This homemade tiramisu is a family favorite that always impresses. Who in your life would love a slice? Let me know in the comments below!