Italian Tiramisu (the no-bake dessert legend)

Tiramisu is what happens when coffee, cream, and dessert decide to be dramatic together. Soft espresso-soaked ladyfingers, rich mascarpone cream, and a cocoa finish that says, “Yes, I have taste.”

It looks fancy. It tastes elite. And guess what? You don’t even turn the oven on. Icon behavior. ☕🍰

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Why This Recipe is Awesome

• No baking required
• Creamy, dreamy texture
• Perfect make-ahead dessert
• Balanced coffee + sweetness

It’s impressive but secretly easy. We love a low-effort showstopper.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 cup strong brewed espresso (cooled)
• 2 tbsp coffee liqueur (optional)
• 8 oz mascarpone cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 package ladyfinger cookies
• Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the coffee mix.
   Combine espresso and coffee liqueur in a shallow dish.
2. Whip the cream.
   Beat heavy cream until soft peaks form. Set aside.
3. Mix mascarpone filling.
   In another bowl, mix mascarpone, sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
4. Combine.
   Fold whipped cream into mascarpone mixture gently.
5. Dip ladyfingers.
   Quickly dip each cookie into coffee. Don’t soak—just a fast dunk.
6. Layer.
   Arrange soaked cookies in a dish. Spread half the cream mixture on top.
7. Repeat.
   Add another layer of dipped cookies, then remaining cream.
8. Chill.
   Refrigerate at least 4 hours (overnight is best).
9. Finish.
   Dust generously with cocoa powder before serving.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Over-soaking cookies. Soggy tiramisu = sadness.
• Using low-fat mascarpone. Texture won’t be right.
• Skipping chill time. It needs to set.
• Overmixing cream. Keep it fluffy.

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Alternatives & Substitutions

• No mascarpone? Cream cheese works (flavor slightly different).
• Alcohol-free? Skip the liqueur.
• Chocolate twist? Add chocolate shavings between layers.
• Individual servings? Build in glasses.

Tiramisu is flexible and forgiving.

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FAQ

Does it taste strongly like coffee?
Balanced, not overpowering.

Can I freeze it?
Yes, but texture is best fresh.

How long does it last?
2–3 days in the fridge.

Do I need raw eggs?
Nope, this version skips them.

Why is mine runny?
Cream not whipped enough or not chilled long enough.

Is this hard to make?
No—just layering and patience.

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Final Thoughts

Italian Tiramisu is creamy, elegant, and wildly satisfying with minimal effort. Perfect for dinner parties, holidays, or just because dessert should feel special sometimes.

Make it once, and suddenly you’re the person who “makes amazing tiramisu.” Not a bad reputation to have. ☕✨