Tiramisu is a traditional Italian dessert that consists of layers of ladyfingers (savoiardi) soaked in espresso or strong coffee, layered with a mixture of mascarpone cheese, eggs, sugar, and sometimes liqueur, and then topped with cocoa powder or grated chocolate. Tiramisu translates to “pick me up” or “cheer me up” in English. The name is thought to refer to the pick-me-up effect of the caffeine in the espresso or strong coffee that is used in the dessert. The name also could be related to the use of mascarpone cheese, that is believed to have mood-enhancing properties. It is believed to have been created in the 1960s or 1970s in the region of Veneto, North-East of Italy.
Tiramisu is a sentimental favorite in my family. It was served at our wedding instead of wedding cake, along with cannoli. So, when my dad was visiting Venice for the 2008 Ada conference, he asked for a cannoli for dessert while dining out. The Venetian waiter was appalled. He explained that the cannoli is a Sicilian speciality and not served in Venice. Not ruffled, my dad asked what their speciality was and the waiter proudly proclaimed ‘Tiramisu’ to which my dad responded, ‘Sounds perfect. May I order that please?’ To this day, eating cannoli or tiramisu reminds me of our special day. This week would have been my dad’s 80th birthday, so it felt like time to share his friend’s recipe and celebrate with something sweet.
Homemade Tiramisu
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese
- 3 egg yolks
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup Marsala wine or Amaretto (optional)
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee or espresso
- 1 package ladyfingers (savoiardi)
- Cocoa powder or grated chocolate, for dusting
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg yolks and sugar together until pale and thick.
- In a separate bowl, beat the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Fold the mascarpone cheese into the egg mixture until well combined, then gently fold in the whipped cream.
- If using, add the Marsala wine or Amaretto to the cooled coffee or espresso.
- Dip the ladyfingers into the coffee mixture, making sure they are well saturated but not falling apart.
- Arrange the ladyfingers in the bottom of a 9×9 inch dish or individual cups or glasses.
- Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers.
- Repeat the layers of ladyfingers and mascarpone mixture.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Before serving, dust the top with cocoa powder or grated chocolate.
Tiramisu is a delicious, rich and creamy dessert that is perfect to end a special meal. The recipe is easy to follow and it can be made with few ingredients. It can be made in a large dish or in individual cups or glasses. Buon appetito!
