Traditional Italian Tiramisu Recipe For A Rich, No-Bake Cocoa Dusted Delight

By Akshara

June 23, 2026

A magnificent Italian tiramisu is a masterclass in elegant assembly, completely eliminating the need for baking by relying on chilled setting instead. This timeless dessert features light, airy Savoiardi (ladyfinger) biscuits soaked in a dark, robust espresso wash, layered between a luxurious, velvety custard cream built from rich mascarpone cheese and whipped eggs. Sweeter elements are perfectly checked by a heavy coating of bittersweet cocoa powder dusted over the top right before serving, resulting in a texturally rich showstopper.

Ingredients

24 Savoiardi (ladyfinger) biscuits  1 cup strong freshly brewed espresso, cooled to room temperature  250g premium mascarpone cheese, at room temperature  2 large eggs (whites and yolks separated)  1/3 cup caster sugar  2 tbsp premium unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting

Step 1

Whisk the egg yolks and caster sugar together in a large mixing bowl for about 3 to 4 minutes until the mixture turns pale yellow and thick, then fold in the smooth mascarpone cheese until completely uniform.

Step 2

Beat the egg whites in a separate clean bowl until stiff peaks form, then use a flexible spatula to gently fold them into the mascarpone cream base to preserve a light, airy structure.

Step 3

Dip each ladyfinger biscuit into the cold espresso fluid for exactly one second on each side, ensuring they absorb the coffee without turning soft or breaking apart.

Step 4

Layer half of the soaked biscuits into the base of a square dish, spread half of the mascarpone cream over the top, repeat the process with a second layer of biscuits and cream.

Step 5

Dust heavily with cocoa powder after chilling for 6 hours.