This Classic Italian Tiramisu Inspired by Gordon Ramsay is rich, creamy, and indulgently layered with espresso-soaked ladyfingers and a luxurious mascarpone filling. Inspired by Gordon Ramsay’s approach to elegance and simplicity, this no-bake dessert is perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or whenever I want to impress guests with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this tiramisu comes together so effortlessly, yet delivers such a sophisticated dessert experience. The mascarpone filling is velvety and perfectly balanced with the bold flavor of espresso and a hint of sweetness. Since it’s a no-bake dessert, it saves me oven space during busy gatherings. Plus, it tastes even better after chilling overnight, making it a great make-ahead option.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
6 large egg yolks
1 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 cup mascarpone cheese
1 1/2 cups strong brewed espresso, cooled
1/4 cup coffee liqueur (optional)
1 package (7 oz) ladyfinger biscuits (savoiardi)
Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
Dark chocolate shavings (optional)
Directions
I start by whisking the egg yolks with sugar in a large bowl until the mixture becomes pale and thick, which takes about 5 minutes.
In a separate bowl, I whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
Then I fold the mascarpone into the whipped cream until smooth.
Next, I gently fold that mixture into the egg yolks until fully combined.
In a shallow dish, I mix the cooled espresso with coffee liqueur if I choose to use it.
I dip each ladyfinger briefly into the coffee mixture—just enough to soak the outside—and place them in a 9×9-inch dish.
Then I layer half of the mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers.
I repeat the process with a second layer of dipped ladyfingers and top with the remaining mascarpone mixture.
After covering the dish, I refrigerate it for at least 6 hours or preferably overnight.
Just before serving, I dust the top with unsweetened cocoa powder and sometimes add dark chocolate shavings for extra flair.
Servings and timing
This tiramisu serves 8 people.
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Chill Time: 6 hours (minimum)
Total Time: 6 hours 25 minutes
Calories: 410 kcal per serving
Variations
When I want to mix things up, I swap the coffee liqueur for dark rum or amaretto for a different flavor twist. Sometimes I use chocolate-dipped ladyfingers or even sprinkle a layer of grated dark chocolate between the layers for more richness. For a kid-friendly version, I skip the alcohol entirely and use decaf espresso.
Storage/Reheating
I store tiramisu tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen the longer it sits. I never try to reheat tiramisu since it’s a chilled dessert, but I let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving for the best texture.
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FAQs
How long does tiramisu need to chill before serving?
I chill it for at least 6 hours, but overnight is best to let the flavors meld and the texture firm up.
Can I make tiramisu without alcohol?
Yes, I often skip the coffee liqueur for a non-alcoholic version and it’s just as delicious.
What can I use instead of mascarpone?
If I don’t have mascarpone, I mix softened cream cheese with a bit of heavy cream and a touch of sour cream for a decent substitute.
Can I freeze tiramisu?
I can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 1 month, though the texture may change slightly upon thawing. I thaw it in the fridge overnight.
Why are my ladyfingers getting soggy?
If I soak them too long in espresso, they absorb too much liquid. I just do a quick dip—1 to 2 seconds on each side—to keep them from turning mushy.
Conclusion
This Classic Italian Tiramisu Inspired by Gordon Ramsay is rich, creamy, and indulgently layered with espresso-soaked ladyfingers and a luxurious is my go-to when I want to serve something both classic and luxurious. It’s incredibly simple to put together and always gets rave reviews. Whether I’m hosting a holiday dinner or just craving a creamy coffee dessert, this tiramisu never disappoints.
📖 Recipe:
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Classic Italian Tiramisu Inspired by Gordon Ramsay
- Total Time: 6 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic Italian tiramisu inspired by Gordon Ramsay, featuring layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, rich mascarpone cream, and a dusting of cocoa powder. This no-bake dessert is elegant, simple, and perfect for entertaining.
Ingredients
6 large egg yolks
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup mascarpone cheese
1 1/2 cups strong brewed espresso, cooled
1/4 cup coffee liqueur (optional)
1 package (7 oz) ladyfinger biscuits (savoiardi)
Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
Dark chocolate shavings (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk the egg yolks with sugar until the mixture is pale and thick, about 5 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Fold the mascarpone cheese into the whipped cream until smooth.
- Gently fold the mascarpone mixture into the egg yolk mixture until fully combined.
- In a shallow dish, mix the cooled espresso with coffee liqueur if using.
- Briefly dip each ladyfinger into the espresso mixture and layer them in a 9×9-inch dish.
- Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers.
- Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and top with the remaining mascarpone mixture.
- Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or preferably overnight.
- Before serving, dust the top with unsweetened cocoa powder and optionally garnish with dark chocolate shavings.
Notes
For a non-alcoholic version, skip the coffee liqueur and use decaf espresso.
Don’t soak ladyfingers too long to prevent them from becoming soggy—1 to 2 seconds is enough.
Chilling overnight improves the flavor and texture.
Store tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Can be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
For a flavor twist, use dark rum or amaretto instead of coffee liqueur.
Substitute mascarpone with a mix of cream cheese, heavy cream, and sour cream if needed.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/8 of recipe)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 190mg
