Welcome back to our Italian Recipe Series! After savoring the rich flavors of Spaghetti Carbonara, Chicken Parmesan, and Lasagna, it’s time to satisfy your sweet tooth with a classic Italian dessert: Tiramisu. This elegant, coffee-flavored dessert is known for its creamy layers and delightful balance of flavors, making it a perfect end to any meal.

Classic Tiramisu Recipe

Ingredients:

• 6 large egg yolks
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup mascarpone cheese, room temperature
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream, cold
• 2 cups strong brewed coffee, cooled
• 1/4 cup coffee liqueur (optional)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 package (7 oz) ladyfinger cookies
• Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
• Dark chocolate shavings (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Mascarpone Mixture:
   • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and granulated sugar until thick and pale, about 5 minutes.
   • Add the mascarpone cheese and vanilla extract, and continue to whisk until smooth and well combined.
2. Whip the Cream:
   • In a separate mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
   • Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully incorporated and smooth.
3. Prepare the Coffee Mixture:
   • In a shallow dish, combine the cooled brewed coffee and coffee liqueur (if using).
4. Assemble the Tiramisu:
   • Dip each ladyfinger cookie into the coffee mixture, making sure not to soak them too long to prevent them from becoming too soggy.
   • Arrange a layer of dipped ladyfingers in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
   • Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers.
   • Repeat the process with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and the remaining mascarpone mixture.
5. Chill and Serve:
   • Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.
   • Before serving, dust the top of the tiramisu with unsweetened cocoa powder and garnish with dark chocolate shavings, if desired.

Tips for the Perfect Tiramisu:

• Use high-quality mascarpone: This ensures a rich and creamy texture.
• Don’t oversoak the ladyfingers: A quick dip in the coffee mixture is sufficient to prevent them from becoming too mushy.
• Chill thoroughly: Allowing the tiramisu to chill for several hours or overnight enhances the flavor and texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Tiramisu is the ultimate indulgence for dessert lovers. Its layers of creamy mascarpone, coffee-soaked ladyfingers, and a hint of cocoa create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. It’s a sophisticated yet easy-to-make dessert that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Stay Tuned!

We hope you enjoy making and indulging in this Classic Tiramisu. Stay tuned for more delicious recipes as we continue our Italian Recipe Series, bringing you the best of Italy’s culinary delights. Buon appetito!

Dining Out in the Area

If you are interested in dining out for Italian food, here are a few recommendations in the Orange County/Fredericksburg/Spotsylvania area: 2 Brothers and Bella Cucina in Locust Grove, Itave in Spotsylvania, and Orofino in Fredericksburg.

If you are interested in buying or selling a home in these areas, or anywhere in the region, we at the Licata Group/eXp are your expert real estate advisors! Call us today at 540/735-7998. Learn specifically about Lake of the Woods and search homes in this amenity-rich community at lakeofthewoodsvirginia.com or search homes in the entire region at licatagroup.com.