HOW TO MAKE TIRAMISU
Tiramisu combines the flavors of coffee, espresso and chocolate into a truly unique and irresistible treat that you can enjoy at home. Once you learn the basics of a tiramisu recipe, you can experiment with flavor combinations and cooking methods that can make this dessert uniquely your own.
Learn how to make this classic Italian dessert from scratch using a stand mixer and espresso machine that's sure to delight at your next dinner party or special occasion.
WHAT IS TIRAMISU?
Tiramisu hails from Italy and is a dessert traditionally consumed during the late spring and early summer months of the year. Taking its name from the Italian phrase "pick me up," the dessert is an energizing combination of rich coffee flavors and creamy textures.
WHAT IS TRADITIONAL TIRAMISU MADE OF?
Traditional tiramisu features an intricate blend of coffee-infused ladyfingers or amaretti cookies, eggs, mascarpone cheese and alcohol, such as dark rum, marsala wine or amaretto. For even more flavor, coffee liqueur can also be used as an even bolder twist on the classic recipe.
IS ALCOHOL IN TRADITIONAL TIRAMISU?
While tiramisu is a classic Italian dessert that typically incorporates the rich, indulgent flavors of dark rum with the sweetness and heft of chocolate and coffee, it can also be made without alcohol for a slightly lighter take on the traditional recipe.
WHAT TOOLS DO I NEED TO MAKE TIRAMISU?
In combination with everyday kitchen essentials like parchment paper and a rubber spatula, you can make authentic tiramisu from scratch using your favorite kitchen tools, such as your stand mixer and espresso machine.
With stand mixers and espresso machines by KitchenAid brand, you can effortlessly whip up the eggs to give the dish its signature airy texture or quickly brew your own fresh espresso shots for layering in flavor.
TIPS FOR MAKING TIRAMISU
To make a delicious and authentic homemade tiramisu, it is important to start with high-quality ingredients. For the best results, opt for fresh espresso instead of instant coffee or espresso powder, as well as a spreadable mascarpone cheese to ensure the desired rich and creamy texture.
When assembling your tiramisu, layer the ingredients properly for an even flavor and striking presentation. Pay special attention to how much filling is spooned between cake layers, and don’t skimp on the cocoa powder.
HOMEMADE TIRAMISU RECIPE
Whether you're looking for a new dessert to wow your dinner guests or simply craving something sweet and indulgent, there's nothing quite like homemade tiramisu. Whether you use a recipe for traditional Italian tiramisu or a flavored version like coffee or orange, this dessert is bound to impress.
This delicious dessert mixes layers of fluffy cake with rich, creamy custard and chocolate shavings for a truly irresistible treat. Follow this basic tiramisu guide to start experimenting with custom flavors and toppings for your own unique coffee-flavored creation.
PREP TIME
- 45 minutes
CHILL TIME
- 4 hours
TOTAL TIME
- 4 hours and 45 minutes
INGREDIENTS
Egg yolks
Granulated sugar
Sea salt
Mascarpone cheese
Whole milk ricotta
Confectioners’ sugar
Heavy whipping cream
Espresso
Whole milk
Ladyfingers
Dark or bittersweet chocolate (grated)
Cocoa powder
Marsala wine or flavored liqueur (optional)
- Flavored add-ins, such as coffee or oranges (optional)
DIRECTIONS
Follow these steps to make homemade tiramisu using a KitchenAid® stand mixer and espresso machine.
STEP 1: MAKE A ZABAGLIONE
Add the egg yolks, granulated sugar and salt to a heatproof bowl and place over simmering water. Using a KitchenAid® hand mixer, attach the turbo beater attachment and mix the ingredients on speed 4 until thick, approximately 6–8 minutes. This mixture is called a Zabaglione and is ready when it reads 170ºF on a thermometer. Allow the mixture to cool in the fridge for about 15 minutes.
STEP 2: MAKE THE MASCARPONE CREAM
Add the mascarpone cheese, ricotta and confectioners’ sugar to a mixing bowl. Using a wire whisk accessory with your stand mixer, mix the ingredients on speed 4 until smooth, approximately 30 seconds.
Add the heavy cream and mix again on speed 4 until thick, approximately 30 seconds. Then increase to speed 7 once more until small peaks form and the mixture is smooth, approximately 30 seconds to 1 minute.
STEP 3: COMBINE MASCARPONE CREAM AND ZABAGLIONE
Carefully fold the finished mascarpone cream into the zabaglione with a spatula, combining until smooth. Overmixing should be avoided as it may deflate the mixture. Place the mixture in the fridge to cool until ready to assemble the tiramisu.
STEP 4: MAKE THE ESPRESSO
Using a KitchenAid® espresso machine, prepare 1 cup of espresso (see below). Allow to cool to room temperature.
When preparing freshly brewed espresso for your homemade tiramisu, it’s best to opt for finely ground beans to ensure a strong, bold flavor.
STEP 5: MAKE SOAKING LIQUID
Add the espresso and milk to a bowl. If using, also add the alcohol and/or any desired flavoring, such as the zest from an orange or lemon. Stir to combine the ingredients.
STEP 6: PREP COOKIES
Dunk the ladyfingers in the soaking liquid. The cookies should be damp but not soaked.
STEP 7: PREP TRAY
Line a deep dish tray with half of the cookies and cover with half of the mascarpone mixture. Sprinkle the grated chocolate and cocoa powder over the cream. Repeat this process for another layer and wrap the tray tightly with cling film.
STEP 8: CHILL AND SERVE
Refrigerate the tray for at least 4 hours before serving.
HOW TO MAKE ESPRESSO
You can make freshly brewed espresso for your homemade tiramisu with an appliance like a KitchenAid® espresso machine. Simply pack the portafilter with finely ground coffee beans and pull the shot by locking the portafilter and starting the machine.
A dedicated machine allows you to experiment with recipe possibilities involving delicious, silky-smooth coffee made right at home.
HOW TO STORE TIRAMISU
Keep any leftover tiramisu fresh and moist through proper storage by covering the tray with plastic wrap or placing the cake in an airtight container with a lid. Keep your homemade dessert in the fridge for up to three days.
SHOP KITCHENAID® COFFEE PRODUCTS FOR UNIQUE COFFEE CREATIONS
A KitchenAid® coffee maker or espresso machine is the perfect tool for unleashing your culinary creativity. With their intuitive design and helpful features like built-in warming plates and convenient measuring marks on select models, coffee products by KitchenAid brand allow you to explore new coffee creations and create perfectly brewed cups of your favorite roast each time.
