There’s nothing quite like the first taste of a classic tiramisu, where rich coffee flavors meld seamlessly with creamy mascarpone. This Easy Tiramisu recipe is my go-to for creating a moment of indulgence that feels both special and attainable. Whether it’s a romantic evening, a cozy gathering with friends, or simply celebrating life’s small victories, this dessert effortlessly brings a taste of Italy right into your kitchen.

The beauty of making tiramisu lies in its layers—each scoop reveals a silky mascarpone filling nestled among coffee-soaked lady fingers, dusted with cocoa powder for that final touch of elegance. You won’t believe how simple it is to prepare! With just a handful of ingredients, you can craft a dessert that looks and tastes like it belongs in a high-end restaurant, yet it comes together with minimal fuss. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s create a dessert that will impress even the most discerning palates!

Why is this Easy Tiramisu a must-try?

Simplicity at its finest: This Easy Tiramisu comes together with just a few staple ingredients, making it perfect for both beginner and seasoned bakers alike. Indulgent flavors make it a go-to dessert for any occasion—its rich mascarpone and robust coffee layers offer the ultimate taste sensation. Versatile serving options allude to impressing guests or enjoying a private treat; it’s ideal for romantic dinners or casual gatherings. Plus, it’s a crowd pleaser—everyone will be reaching for seconds! For more dessert inspiration, check out our favorite easy desserts.

Easy Tiramisu Ingredients

Dive into the simple pleasures of this Easy Tiramisu with these essential ingredients.

For the Creamy Base

Mascarpone Cheese – Creamy and rich; make sure it’s at room temperature for smooth mixing.
Confectioners’ Sugar – Sweetness to balance the coffee flavors; can be substituted with a lower-calorie sweetener.
Pure Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; try using homemade vanilla for an extra special touch.
Large Egg Yolks – Provide structure and velvety texture; opt for pasteurized eggs if raw eggs are a concern.
Heavy Cream – Adds lightness when whipped; consider using non-dairy cream for a vegan variant.

For the Coffee Mixture

Strongly Brewed Coffee (cooled) – This forms the heart of the tiramisu; espresso offers the boldest flavor for an authentic taste.
Coffee Liqueur (optional) – Boosts the coffee flavor; feel free to skip for a non-alcoholic version.

For the Assembly

Lady Fingers – Essential for structure and absorption; substitute sponge cake if lady fingers aren’t available.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – A dusting that adds a luscious, bitter contrast; dark cocoa enhances the richness.

These straightforward ingredients harmoniously come together to create an Easy Tiramisu that will leave your taste buds singing!

How to Make Easy Tiramisu

Prepare the Coffee Mixture: Brew a strong pot of coffee and allow it to cool completely. If you choose to use coffee liqueur, mix it in after the coffee has cooled for an added flavor boost.
Whip the Cream: In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream using an electric mixer until soft peaks form. This will give your tiramisu a light and airy texture. Set it aside gently.
Mix the Egg Yolks: In a separate bowl, whisk together the large egg yolks, confectioners’ sugar, and pure vanilla extract until the mixture is pale yellow and fluffy. This creates the rich base of your tiramisu.
Combine Mixtures: Carefully fold the whipped cream into the egg yolk mixture using a large spatula. Be gentle to maintain that delightful lightness and airy texture.
Assemble the Tiramisu: Quickly dip each lady finger into the cooled coffee mixture, ensuring they are moist but not soggy. Layer the dipped lady fingers in a serving dish and top with the mascarpone cream. Repeat until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of the creamy mix.
Chill: Cover your assembled tiramisu with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight. This chilling process allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.
Garnish: Before serving, dust the top of your tiramisu generously with unsweetened cocoa powder for that classic finish.

Optional: Drizzle with a bit of chocolate sauce for an extra touch of indulgence.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Easy Tiramisu

Perfect Mixing: Use room temperature mascarpone cheese for easier blending and a smoother texture in your Easy Tiramisu.
Quick Dipping: Dip lady fingers in coffee mixture swiftly—longer will make them soggy instead of just moist.
Gentle Folding: Fold whipped cream into the egg mixture carefully, as vigorous mixing can deflate the airiness you want for a light dessert.
Chill Time: Let your Easy Tiramisu sit in the fridge overnight for the best flavor and texture development. Patience pays off!
Cocoa Finish: Dust cocoa powder just before serving to maintain its freshness and visual appeal. It’s all in the details!

What to Serve with Easy Tiramisu?

Create a delightful dining experience that perfectly complements each bite of this luscious dessert.

Espresso: A classic pairing, the bold coffee flavor complements the tiramisu’s layers while enhancing its coffee notes. Sipping on espresso enhances the indulgent experience.
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These sweet, juicy treats add a fresh and elegant touch. The contrast of flavors brings a delightful brightness to the table.
Vanilla Gelato: Soft and creamy, it contrasts well with the rich tiramisu, making every bite feel luxurious and refreshing. Serve a scoop alongside for an Italian classic experience.
Amaretto: This sweet almond liqueur brings nutty warmth that beautifully enhances the coffee flavor in the tiramisu. Enjoy it on the rocks for an after-dinner delight.
Berries & Whipped Cream: Fresh berries add a burst of color and tartness, cutting through the richness of the dessert. A dollop of whipped cream adds an extra touch of indulgence.
Homemade Biscotti: With a delightful crunch, biscotti offers a great texture contrast. Dip them into your espresso for a charming Italian feel and a great way to use up extra coffee.
Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: A rich, velvety drizzle over your tiramisu will add an extra layer of decadence. This sweet touch makes every bite even more satisfying.
Lemon Sorbet: A refreshing palate cleanser, the tangy sorbet balances out the richness of the tiramisu and leaves your guests feeling refreshed.
Sparkling Wine: A sparkling prosecco pairs beautifully, its bubbles enhancing the flavor of the tiramisu while adding a festive touch to any occasion.

Easy Tiramisu Variations

Feel free to add your own twist to this classic dessert for a personalized touch that delights the palate!

Nutty Delight: Swap coffee liqueur with hazelnut liqueur to add a delightful nuttiness to your layers.
Vegan Option: Use a plant-based cream and aquafaba instead of egg yolks for a creamy, plant-powered tiramisu.
Fruit-Infused: Layer in fresh strawberries or raspberries for a fruity burst that perfectly complements the creamy mascarpone.
Chocolate Lovers: Incorporate chocolate shavings between layers for an indulgent chocolate enhancement that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
Cinnamon Spice: Add a dash of cinnamon to the coffee mixture for a warm, spicy twist on the traditional flavor profile.
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle salted caramel sauce over each layer for a sweet and salty contrast that’s simply irresistible.
Matcha Magic: Replace cocoa powder with matcha green tea powder for a unique, vibrant layer of flavor and color.
Coconut Cream: Use coconut cream in place of heavy cream to infuse a tropical flair that will transport you to paradise with each bite.

How to Store and Freeze Easy Tiramisu

Fridge: Store any leftover Easy Tiramisu in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days to maintain its creamy texture and flavors.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the assembled tiramisu in an airtight container, where it can last up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Reheating: Do not attempt to reheat tiramisu; serve chilled directly from the fridge to enjoy its delightful layers and flavors.

Garnish Precaution: If you’ve added cocoa powder on top, it’s best to dust it fresh just before serving, as it can absorb moisture from the tiramisu over time.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Tiramisu are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline meal planning! You can prepare the coffee mixture and the masksaropne cream up to 24 hours in advance, allowing plenty of time for flavors to blend beautifully. Simply brew the coffee, cool it, and store it in the refrigerator, while you can whip the cream and combine it with the egg yolk mixture ahead of time as well. When you’re ready to serve, quickly dip the lady fingers in the coffee mixture, layer them in a dish, and top with the pre-prepared mascarpone cream. Cover and chill for at least 6 hours, or ideally overnight for the best taste. This makes your Easy Tiramisu just as delicious while saving you valuable time when entertaining!

Easy Tiramisu Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for Easy Tiramisu?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, use fresh, high-quality mascarpone cheese, ideally at room temperature. The eggs should be fresh, and if you’re concerned about raw eggs, choose pasteurized ones. Select lady fingers that are firm and not too stale—fresh ones will soak up the coffee mixture without falling apart.

How should I store leftover Easy Tiramisu?
You can store any remaining Easy Tiramisu in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. This keeps it cool and preserves its creamy texture. If you notice it drying out, simply cover it with plastic wrap to maintain moisture.

Can I freeze Easy Tiramisu for later?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Easy Tiramisu, place it in an airtight container. It will last for up to one month in the freezer. When you’re ready to serve, simply transfer it to the fridge to thaw overnight. This allows the flavors to remain intact without altering the texture.

What should I do if my Easy Tiramisu turns out too soggy?
No worries! If your Easy Tiramisu becomes too soggy, it’s likely due to soaking the lady fingers too long in the coffee mixture. Ensure you dip each lady finger quickly—just 1-2 seconds on each side is enough to absorb the flavor without becoming mushy. Next time, aim for that quick dip!

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Indeed! If you have guests who may be allergic to dairy or eggs, you can adapt the recipe by using non-dairy cream for the whipping and replacing the egg yolks with a vegan alternative, such as silken tofu blended until smooth. This will keep your Easy Tiramisu suitable for a wider audience.