How to make tiramisu

What is tiramisu?

Tiramisu hails from Italy and is a dessert traditionally consumed during the late spring and early summer months of the year. Taking its name from the Italian phrase "pick me up," the dessert is an energizing combination of rich coffee flavors and creamy textures.

What is traditional tiramisu made of?

Traditional tiramisu features an intricate blend of coffee-infused ladyfingers or amaretti cookies, eggs, mascarpone cheese and alcohol, such as dark rum, marsala wine or amaretto. For even more flavor, coffee liqueur can also be used as an even bolder twist on the classic recipe.

Is alcohol in traditional tiramisu?

While tiramisu is a classic Italian dessert that typically incorporates the rich, indulgent flavors of dark rum with the sweetness and heft of chocolate and coffee, it can also be made without alcohol for a slightly lighter take on the traditional recipe.

What tools do I need to make tiramisu?

In combination with everyday kitchen essentials like parchment paper and a rubber spatula, you can make authentic tiramisu from scratch using your favorite kitchen tools, such as your stand mixer and espresso machine. With stand mixers and espresso machines by KitchenAid brand, you can effortlessly whip up the eggs to give the dish its signature airy texture or quickly brew your own fresh espresso shots for layering in flavor.

Tips for making tiramisu

To make a delicious and authentic homemade tiramisu, it is important to start with high-quality ingredients. For the best results, opt for fresh espresso instead of instant coffee or espresso powder, as well as a spreadable mascarpone cheese to ensure the desired rich and creamy texture.

When assembling your tiramisu, layer the ingredients properly for an even flavor and striking presentation. Pay special attention to how much filling is spooned between cake layers, and don’t skimp on the cocoa powder.

Homemade tiramisu recipe

Whether you're looking for a new dessert to wow your dinner guests or simply craving something sweet and indulgent, there's nothing quite like homemade tiramisu. Whether you use a recipe for traditional Italian tiramisu or a flavored version like coffee or orange, this dessert is bound to impress.

This delicious dessert mixes layers of fluffy cake with rich, creamy custard and chocolate shavings for a truly irresistible treat. Follow this basic tiramisu guide to start experimenting with custom flavors and toppings for your own unique coffee-flavored creation.

Prep time

• 45 minutes

Chill time

• 4 hours

Total time

• 4 hours and 45 minutes

Ingredients

• Egg yolks

• Granulated sugar

• Sea salt

• Mascarpone cheese

• Whole milk ricotta

• Confectioners’ sugar

• Heavy whipping cream

• Espresso

• Whole milk

• Ladyfingers

• Dark or bittersweet chocolate (grated)

• Cocoa powder

• Marsala wine or flavored liqueur (optional)

• Flavored add-ins, such as coffee or oranges (optional)

Directions

Follow these steps to make homemade tiramisu using a KitchenAid^® stand mixer and espresso machine.

Step 1: Make a zabaglione

Add the egg yolks, granulated sugar and salt to a heatproof bowl and place over simmering water. Using a KitchenAid^® hand mixer, attach the turbo beater attachment and mix the ingredients on speed 4 until thick, approximately 6–8 minutes. This mixture is called a Zabaglione and is ready when it reads 170^ºF on a thermometer. Allow the mixture to cool in the fridge for about 15 minutes.

Step 2: Make the mascarpone cream

Add the mascarpone cheese, ricotta and confectioners’ sugar to a mixing bowl. Using a wire whisk accessory with your stand mixer, mix the ingredients on speed 4 until smooth, approximately 30 seconds. Add the heavy cream and mix again on speed 4 until thick, approximately 30 seconds. Then increase to speed 7 once more until small peaks form and the mixture is smooth, approximately 30 seconds to 1 minute.

Step 3: Combine mascarpone cream and zabaglione

Carefully fold the finished mascarpone cream into the zabaglione with a spatula, combining until smooth. Overmixing should be avoided as it may deflate the mixture. Place the mixture in the fridge to cool until ready to assemble the tiramisu.

Step 4: Make the espresso

Using a KitchenAid^® espresso machine, prepare 1 cup of espresso (see below). Allow to cool to room temperature. When preparing freshly brewed espresso for your homemade tiramisu, it’s best to opt for finely ground beans to ensure a strong, bold flavor.

Step 5: Make soaking liquid

Add the espresso and milk to a bowl. If using, also add the alcohol and/or any desired flavoring, such as the zest from an orange or lemon. Stir to combine the ingredients.

Step 6: Prep cookies

Dunk the ladyfingers in the soaking liquid. The cookies should be damp but not soaked.

Step 7: Prep tray

Line a deep dish tray with half of the cookies and cover with half of the mascarpone mixture. Sprinkle the grated chocolate and cocoa powder over the cream. Repeat this process for another layer and wrap the tray tightly with cling film.

Step 8: Chill and serve

Refrigerate the tray for at least 4 hours before serving.

How to make espresso

You can make freshly brewed espresso for your homemade tiramisu with an appliance like a KitchenAid^® espresso machine. Simply pack the portafilter with finely ground coffee beans and pull the shot by locking the portafilter and starting the machine.

A dedicated machine allows you to experiment with recipe possibilities involving delicious, silky-smooth coffee made right at home.

How to store tiramisu

Keep any leftover tiramisu fresh and moist through proper storage by covering the tray with plastic wrap or placing the cake in an airtight container with a lid. Keep your homemade dessert in the fridge for up to three days.