Ahhh, a classic Italian dessert—we’re talking rich, indulgent, and iconic 🇮🇹🍨. There are a few timeless options, but the most famous are Tiramisu, Panna Cotta, and Cannoli. Let me break one down for you:
🍮 Tiramisu (Classic Italian Dessert)
Ingredients (6–8 servings)
For the Cream
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Other Ingredients
- 1 cup strong coffee or espresso, cooled
- 2–3 tbsp coffee liqueur (optional, e.g., Kahlúa)
- 24–30 ladyfinger cookies
- Unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare the coffee
- Mix coffee with liqueur if using; let cool.
- Make the cream
- Whisk egg yolks and sugar in a heatproof bowl over simmering water (bain-marie) until pale and slightly thickened.
- Remove from heat, let cool slightly.
- Fold in mascarpone and vanilla until smooth.
- Assemble
- Quickly dip ladyfingers in coffee (don’t soak!).
- Layer half the soaked ladyfingers in a dish.
- Spread half the mascarpone mixture on top.
- Repeat layers with remaining ladyfingers and cream.
- Chill
- Cover and refrigerate 4+ hours (overnight is best for flavor).
- Serve
- Dust generously with cocoa powder before serving.
Tips for Classic Tiramisu
- Egg safety: Use fresh eggs or pasteurized eggs if concerned.
- Ladyfingers: Don’t soak too long—they should be moist, not soggy.
- Optional extras: Shaved chocolate or coffee beans for garnish.
If you want, I can also give a Panna Cotta recipe (creamy, silky, and lighter) or a Cannoli filling recipe (crispy shell + sweet ricotta) for another classic Italian dessert experience.
Do you want me to do that?
