How to Make a Traditional Tiramisu

Tiramisu is a popular Italian dessert that can be made in an array of variations. But a traditional tiramisu is composed of lady fingers, espresso, liqueur, cocoa and cheese, and it takes several hours to complete.

Things You'll Need

• 2 tbsp. sugar
• 4 large eggs, separated
• 8 oz. marscapone cheese
• 1 cup espresso
• 1/4 cup cognac
• Italian Lady Fingers (Savoiardi), 1 package
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder
• 6 oz. hard chocolate for shaving

Instructions

1. Beat the egg yolks into sugar until the mixture is consistent and a light yellow color. Do not over beat. Add the marscapone cheese, lightly stirring until just mixed.

2. Whip the eggs whites in a separate bowl until stiff peaks form. Fold into the marscapone mixture.

3. Pour the cognac into a regular coffee cup of espresso. Dip each lady finger into the liquid quickly, being careful not to oversaturate it. Place each lady finger on the bottom of casserole dish.

4. Cover the lady fingers with half of the cheese mixture, spread evenly. Add another layer of dipped lady fingers. Cover with the remaining cheese mixture, spreading it evenly to each side of the dish. Smooth the mixture with a spreader or large knife for better presentation.

5. Wrap the casserole dish tightly with plastic film and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Tiramisu can be made 1 to 2 days ahead of time.

6. Dust the tiramisu lightly with cocoa powder before serving. Shave chocolate curls over it. Serve chilled.

Tips & Warnings

• Traditional Italian lady fingers are called savoiardi. They can be found in Italian bakeries and at some gourmet grocery stores. If you can't find savoiardi you can use twice as many regular lady fingers since they won't be as thick.