If you’ve ever needed an excuse to make a luxurious dessert that feels like a warm hug from Italy, this is it. Tiramisu is that dreamy, creamy, slightly boozy Italian dessert that always hits the sweet spot. And guess what? You don’t need to be a pastry chef or own a fancy espresso machine to make it. This Easy Tiramisu recipe is simple, fuss-free, and—wait for it—no-bake! Yes, busy ladies, your new favorite dessert just became even more accessible.
Whether you’re juggling soccer practice, a work deadline, or just craving something indulgent without turning on the oven, this recipe is your saving grace. With rich mascarpone, velvety layers, and that coffee-kissed bite, this dessert is elegance in a dish, minus the stress.
Why You’ll Love This Tiramisu
- It’s a no-bake miracle—perfect for summer or lazy weekends.
- Uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients.
- The balance of creamy mascarpone, strong coffee, and cocoa is just… chef’s kiss.
- You can prep it ahead, giving you one less thing to stress about when guests arrive.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 3 large eggs, yolks and whites separated
- ½ cup (110 g) caster sugar (superfine)
- ½ teaspoon (2.5 ml) vanilla extract
- 8 oz (250 g) good quality mascarpone cheese
- 1 ¼ cups (300 ml) strong black coffee, hot
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) Frangelico, Kahlua, or liquor of choice (optional)
- 6.5 oz (200 g) ladyfingers (savoiardi biscuits), about 24–30 pieces
- Cocoa powder, for dusting
How to Make Easy Tiramisu
- In a mixing bowl, beat the egg yolks and caster sugar on medium-high speed for about 10 minutes, until the mixture becomes pale and thick.
- Add the vanilla extract and mascarpone cheese. Mix just until smooth. Transfer to another bowl.
- Clean the mixing bowl thoroughly, then beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form—about 3 minutes.
- Gently fold half of the mascarpone mixture into the beaten egg whites. Once combined, fold in the remaining mascarpone mixture. Take your time—slow and gentle keeps it airy.
- Combine the hot coffee with your chosen liquor in a shallow dish. Briefly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mix and layer them on the bottom of an 8-inch square dish.
- Spread half of the mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers. Add a second layer of dipped ladyfingers, then top with the remaining cream.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4–5 hours, ideally overnight.
- Dust generously with cocoa powder before serving. Serve chilled and bask in the glory.
Tiramisu Tips & Tricks
- Use the freshest eggs possible since they remain raw.
- Don’t soak the ladyfingers too long or they’ll fall apart—think of it as a quick coffee kiss.
- If you’re out of Frangelico or Kahlua, amaretto or rum makes a great stand-in.
- Refrigerate overnight if you can. The flavors deepen, and the texture becomes perfection.
- Cocoa clumps? Use a fine mesh sieve for a soft, snow-like dusting.
A Personal Scoop
The first time I made tiramisu, I was trying to impress my in-laws. I was a nervous wreck—googling, mixing, praying. But the moment my father-in-law took a bite and gave a very serious nod of approval, I knew I had a keeper. Since then, this recipe has become my go-to for everything from birthdays to breakups (yes, dessert therapy is real).
What to Serve with Tiramisu
Keep it simple. A shot of espresso or a small glass of dessert wine pairs beautifully. If you’re going all out, serve it after a light Italian meal like grilled chicken Caesar or pasta primavera. Add fresh berries or a sprig of mint for garnish if you want to get fancy. Or just grab a fork and dig in straight from the dish—we don’t judge.
How to Store Tiramisu
This tiramisu keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it from drying out or absorbing fridge odors. Want to make it ahead? Even better! Just dust with cocoa powder right before serving. Avoid freezing if you can—freezing changes the texture and makes the mascarpone grainy.
FAQs
Can I substitute mascarpone?
Mascarpone gives tiramisu its signature creaminess, but in a pinch, a blend of cream cheese and heavy cream can work.
How can I make it alcohol-free?
Just skip the liquor and add a splash of vanilla to the coffee for extra depth.
Can I use decaf coffee?
Absolutely! Same flavor, no jitters—perfect for late-night indulgence.
What if I don’t have ladyfingers?
You can use sponge cake or pound cake cut into strips, but ladyfingers are worth the trip to the store.
One Last Bite
Tiramisu is more than just a dessert—it’s a moment. Whether you’re savoring a slice after dinner or sneaking a spoonful in your pajamas at midnight, it delivers comfort and class in every bite. And with this easy tiramisu recipe, anyone can recreate that Italian magic at home. Buon appetito!
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Heavenly No-Bake Delight: Easy Tiramisu Recipe You Can’t Resist
- Total Time: 5 hours (hands-on time: 25 mins)
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy No-Bake Tiramisu is a luxurious, crowd-pleasing Italian dessert that comes together effortlessly—no oven required. With layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone filling, and a dusting of cocoa, it’s the ultimate treat for any occasion. Elegant, indulgent, and fuss-free, this dessert will transport you to Italy with every bite.
Ingredients
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3 large eggs, yolks and whites separated
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½ cup (110 g) caster sugar (superfine)
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½ teaspoon (2.5 ml) vanilla extract
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8 oz (250 g) mascarpone cheese
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1¼ cups (300 ml) strong black coffee, hot
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2 tablespoons (30 ml) Frangelico, Kahlua, amaretto, or rum (optional)
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6.5 oz (200 g) ladyfingers (about 24–30 pieces)
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Cocoa powder, for dusting
Instructions
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Beat Yolks and Sugar: In a bowl, beat egg yolks and caster sugar for about 10 minutes until pale and thick.
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Add Mascarpone: Mix in vanilla and mascarpone until smooth. Transfer to another bowl.
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Whip Egg Whites: In a clean bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form.
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Fold: Gently fold half of the mascarpone mixture into the egg whites. Once combined, fold in the rest, keeping the mixture light and airy.
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Prepare Coffee Soak: Combine hot coffee with optional liquor in a shallow dish.
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Layer: Dip ladyfingers briefly into coffee mixture (don’t oversoak). Layer them in an 8-inch square dish.
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Add Cream: Spread half the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers. Repeat with another dipped layer and remaining cream.
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Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 4–5 hours, preferably overnight.
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Serve: Dust generously with cocoa powder just before serving.
Notes
Use very fresh eggs due to raw whites and yolks.
For alcohol-free, omit liquor and add extra vanilla or almond extract.
Letting it rest overnight enhances flavor and texture.
Use a fine sieve for even cocoa dusting.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Chilling Time: 4–5 hours (or overnight)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Italian