Name: Tiramisu Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: For the Coffee Soak:; 1 cup brewed espresso or strong coffee (cooled); 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional); 1 tablespoon sugar; For the Mascarpone Filling:; 1 ½ cups mascarpone cheese (softened); ½ cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 ½ cups heavy cream; For Assembling:; 1 package (7 ounces ladyfinger cookies); Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting); Dark chocolate shavings (for garnish (optional))

Growing up in an Italian household, one of my fondest memories was helping my nonna (grandmother) make her famous Tiramisu cake. The delicate layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone filling, and dusting of cocoa powder created a dessert that was not only delicious but also a symbol of family gatherings and celebrations. In this blog post, I’ll share with you our family’s cherished recipe for Easy Tiramisu Cake, along with tips, variations, and insights into its cultural significance.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 8-10

Ingredients:

For the Coffee Soak:

1 cup brewed espresso or strong coffee, cooled
2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)
1 tablespoon sugar

For the Mascarpone Filling:

1 ½ cups mascarpone cheese, softened
½ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ½ cups heavy cream

For Assembling:

1 package (7 ounces) ladyfinger cookies
Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
Dark chocolate shavings, for garnish (optional)

Cultural Significance and History:

Tiramisu, which translates to “pick me up” in Italian, is a beloved dessert with roots in the Veneto region of Italy. It is said to have originated in the 1960s, although its exact history is debated among Italian culinary historians. Some believe it was created in the town of Treviso, while others attribute its invention to restaurants in the city of Siena.

Regardless of its origins, Tiramisu quickly gained popularity not only in Italy but also worldwide, becoming a staple dessert in Italian restaurants and homes. Its rich flavors, creamy texture, and hint of coffee make it a favorite indulgence for many.

Nutritional Information:

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Calories per serving: 350-400 kcal
Total Fat: 25-30g
Saturated Fat: 15-18g
Carbohydrates: 25-30g
Sugars: 15-18g
Protein: 5-7g

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations:

Coffee Liqueur Substitute: You can replace coffee liqueur with 1-2 tablespoons of rum or omit it for a non-alcoholic version.
Ladyfinger Alternatives: If you can’t find ladyfinger cookies, you can use sponge cake or angel food cake cut into thin slices.
Dietary Considerations: For a lighter version, use light or reduced-fat mascarpone and whipped cream.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Coffee Soak

In a shallow dish, combine cooled brewed espresso or strong coffee with coffee liqueur (if using) and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Mascarpone Filling

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until well combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 3: Assemble the Tiramisu Cake

Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee soak mixture, ensuring they are moistened but not soggy.
Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of a serving dish or baking pan.
Spread half of the mascarpone filling evenly over the ladyfingers.
Repeat the layering process with another layer of soaked ladyfingers and the remaining mascarpone filling.
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the cake to set.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Before serving, dust the top of the Tiramisu cake with unsweetened cocoa powder.
For an extra touch, garnish with dark chocolate shavings if desired.
Slice and serve chilled.

Serving Suggestions and Occasions:

Tiramisu is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed on various occasions, including:

Dinner Parties: Impress your guests with a homemade Tiramisu cake as a delightful finale to a dinner party.
Holiday Gatherings: Serve Tiramisu during festive holidays like Christmas or Easter for a memorable dessert experience.
Date Nights: Share a romantic evening with your partner over a slice of decadent Tiramisu paired with a glass of dessert wine.

Wine Pairing:

Pair Tiramisu with a sweet dessert wine such as Moscato d’Asti or a rich red wine like Port for a delightful contrast of flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

Over-Soaking Ladyfingers: Be cautious when dipping the ladyfingers into the coffee mixture to avoid making them too soggy, which can result in a mushy texture.
Overmixing Mascarpone Filling: Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone to maintain a light and fluffy texture.

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients:

Mascarpone Cheese: While mascarpone is high in fat, it also contains essential nutrients like calcium and protein.
Coffee: Coffee is rich in antioxidants and may have various health benefits, including improved mental alertness and reduced risk of certain diseases.

Regional Variations:

Classic Italian: Traditional Tiramisu typically uses ladyfinger cookies, mascarpone cheese, coffee, and cocoa powder.
American Twist: Some American versions of Tiramisu may incorporate ingredients like cream cheese or use different types of alcohol for flavoring.

Sustainability Practices:

Ingredient Sourcing: Whenever possible, choose organic and locally sourced ingredients to support sustainable farming practices.
Reducing Food Waste: Use leftover coffee or espresso for the coffee soak rather than brewing a fresh batch.

Summary:

Easy Tiramisu Cake is a luscious dessert with layers of coffee-infused ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone filling, topped with cocoa powder for a touch of elegance. Its cultural significance in Italian cuisine and versatility make it a beloved treat for various occasions.

For more recipes and culinary inspiration, stay tuned to our food blog! Enjoy creating and savoring delicious moments with loved ones through the art of cooking. Bon appétit!

Tiramisu Cake Recipe

Tiramisu, which translates to "pick me up" in Italian, is a beloved dessert with roots in the Veneto region of Italy. It is said to have originated in the 1960s, although its exact history is debated among Italian culinary historians. Some believe it was created in the town of Treviso, while others attribute its invention to restaurants in the city of Siena.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 30

Total Time 50

Course Dessert

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

For the Coffee Soak:
1 cup brewed espresso or strong coffee cooled
2 tablespoons coffee liqueur optional
1 tablespoon sugar
For the Mascarpone Filling:
1 ½ cups mascarpone cheese softened
½ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ½ cups heavy cream
For Assembling:
1 package 7 ounces ladyfinger cookies
Unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting
Dark chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Divide the cake batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
In a mixing bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and coffee liqueur if using. Mix until smooth.
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until you have a creamy Tiramisu filling.
Once the cakes are completely cooled, slice each cake horizontally to create four cake layers.
Place one cake layer on a serving plate, and brush it with the cooled brewed espresso or coffee.
Spread a portion of the Tiramisu filling evenly over the first layer.
Repeat the process, layering the cake and filling until all layers are used.
Dust the top of the cake with unsweetened cocoa powder and garnish with dark chocolate shavings and fresh mint leaves if desired.