How to make Tiramisu cake at home?

 



Tiramisu cake, a classic Italian dessert, is a delightful combination of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone filling, and a dusting of cocoa powder. Making it at home is easier than you might think! Here are two options to consider, depending on your experience and desired level of effort:

Classic Tiramisu Cake (From Scratch):

Ingredients:

  • For the ladyfingers:
    • 4 large eggs, separated
    • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
    • 1/4 teaspoon salt
    • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
    • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • For the coffee soak:
    • 1 1/2 cups strong brewed coffee, cooled
    • 3 tablespoons rum (optional)
  • For the mascarpone cream:
    • 16 ounces mascarpone cheese, cold
    • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • 1 cup heavy cream, cold
  • For finishing:
    • Unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting

Instructions:

  1. Make the ladyfingers: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, whisk egg whites with salt until stiff peaks form. Gradually add sugar and continue whisking until glossy. Fold in egg yolks gently. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and cocoa powder. Gently fold into the egg mixture until just combined. Using a piping bag or spatula, pipe 3-inch long fingers onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until firm to the touch. Let cool completely.
  2. Make the coffee soak: Combine coffee and rum (if using) in a shallow dish.
  3. Make the mascarpone cream: In a large bowl, whisk together mascarpone, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold into the mascarpone mixture until combined.
  4. Assemble the cake: Dip each ladyfinger briefly into the coffee soak, letting any excess drip off. Arrange half of the ladyfingers in a single layer in a dish. Spread with half of the mascarpone cream. Repeat with remaining ladyfingers and cream. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
  5. Serve: Dust the top with cocoa powder before serving.

Quick and Easy Tiramisu (Boxed Cake Mix):

Ingredients:

  • 1 white or vanilla cake mix
  • Ingredients for cake mix as per instructions
  • 1 1/2 cups strong brewed coffee, cooled
  • 3 tablespoons rum (optional)
  • 16 ounces mascarpone cheese, cold
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup heavy cream, cold
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the cake: Make the cake mix according to package instructions. Let cool completely.
  2. Make the coffee soak: Combine coffee and rum (if using) in a shallow dish.
  3. Make the mascarpone cream: Follow steps 3-4 from the Classic Tiramisu instructions.
  4. Assemble the cake: Cut the cake horizontally into two even layers. Dip each layer into the coffee soak, letting any excess drip off. Place one layer in a dish. Spread with half of the mascarpone cream. Top with the second layer and spread with remaining cream. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
  5. Serve: Dust the top with cocoa powder before serving.

Tips:

  • For a stronger coffee flavor, use espresso instead of brewed coffee.
  • You can substitute rum with amaretto or brandy for a different flavor twist.
  • If you don't have ladyfingers, you can use sponge cake or biscotti dipped in the coffee soak.
  • Be careful not to over-soak the ladyfingers, or they will become mushy.
  • Experiment with different toppings! Fresh berries, chocolate shavings, or a drizzle of liqueur can add a personal touch.

No matter which method you choose, making your own Tiramisu cake is a rewarding experience. Enjoy the rich flavors and delightful textures of this Italian classic!

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