Homemade Tiramisu

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Chilling Time: 4 hours or overnight
Serves: 8-10

Ingredients:

• 6 large egg yolks
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 1/4 cups mascarpone cheese, softened
• 1 3/4 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
• 1/4 cup coffee liqueur (e.g., Kahlúa), optional
• 24-30 ladyfinger cookies (savoiardi)
• Cocoa powder, for dusting

Instructions:

1. Prepare Coffee Mixture (Low Intensity):
   • In a shallow bowl, mix the cooled brewed coffee and coffee liqueur if using. Set aside.
2. Make Mascarpone Mixture (Medium Intensity):
   • In a large bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until the mixture becomes pale and slightly thickened. Add the softened mascarpone cheese and mix until smooth and well combined.
3. Whip Heavy Cream (Medium-High Intensity):
   • In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
4. Fold Cream into Mascarpone Mixture (Low Intensity):
   • Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until well combined. Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream.
5. Dip Ladyfingers (Low Intensity):
   • Dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture for about 1-2 seconds, ensuring they are well-coated but not soggy.
6. Arrange Ladyfingers (Low Intensity):
   • Arrange a layer of dipped ladyfingers in the bottom of a serving dish or individual glasses.
7. Layer Mascarpone Mixture (Low Intensity):
   • Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the layer of ladyfingers.
8. Repeat Layers (Low Intensity):
   • Repeat the process with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and the remaining mascarpone mixture.
9. Chill (Low Intensity):
   • Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
10. Dust with Cocoa Powder (Low Intensity):
    • Before serving, dust the top with cocoa powder using a fine sieve.
11. Slice and Serve (Low Intensity):
    • Slice and serve chilled. Enjoy the creamy and indulgent classic Tiramisu!

Note: Tiramisu is a delightful no-bake dessert that gets better as it sits, making it an ideal make-ahead treat for special occasions. Adjust the sweetness and coffee intensity to your liking.