Favourite Tiramisu

This is a proper Italian tiramisu, the kind served in trattorias from Treviso (where it was reportedly invented in the 1960s) to family kitchens across Italy. The literal translation is “pick me up” (tira mi su), a reference to the espresso and liquor jolt at the center of every bite. This version layers Savoiardi ladyfingers under a mascarpone cream, then adds amaretti biscuits as a second textural layer, doubling down on the almond depth.

Use real mascarpone, not cream cheese or whipped topping. The two are not interchangeable. Mascarpone is essentially cream that’s been thickened with citric or tartaric acid, giving it a butter-rich, tangy character with no cheese flavor. Cream cheese is too tangy and produces an off-flavored dessert.

Dipping the Savoiardi briefly (a quick in-and-out, not a soak) is the technique that makes or breaks tiramisu. Wet enough to soften but not so saturated that the biscuit falls apart. Two seconds per side is roughly right. Soggy biscuits ruin the structure.

The raw eggs (yolks beaten with sugar, whites whipped separately and folded in) create the signature mousse-like texture. Use the freshest, highest-quality eggs you can find since they’re not cooked. Pasteurized eggs are a smart choice if you have any concerns.

Pro Tips

• The double-strong espresso matters. Regular brewed coffee is too weak; instant espresso powder dissolved in hot water works in a pinch.
• Cognac and amaretto are the traditional choices, but you can substitute dark rum or Marsala for variation.
• Chill at least 3 hours, ideally overnight. The flavors meld and the texture firms to proper tiramisu consistency.
• Dust with cocoa powder just before serving, not earlier. Cocoa can absorb moisture from the cream and turn into clumpy patches if applied too far ahead.

Variations

• Substitute Kahlúa for the cognac for a sweeter, more coffee-forward dessert.
• Add a layer of bittersweet chocolate shavings between the biscuits and the cream for extra cocoa intensity.
• Use sponge cake cubes instead of ladyfingers if you can’t find Savoiardi.