Name: Italian Holiday Tiramisu Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 6 h 30 min
Yield: 12
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 500g (about 2 cups) mascarpone cheese, room temperature; 5 large eggs, separated (use fresh, high-quality); 100-120g (about ½ cup) granulated sugar, divided; 300-400ml (about 1½ cups) strong brewed espresso or coffee, cooled; 2-3 tbsp dark rum, Marsala, or coffee liqueur (optional); 36-40 Savoiardi ladyfingers (about 2-3 packages); Unsweetened cocoa powder, for generous dusting; Optional: 50g dark chocolate, grated for extra layers

Italian Holiday Tiramisu is a classic no-bake Italian dessert featuring layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and velvety mascarpone cream, dusted with cocoa. Perfect for festive gatherings, it offers rich coffee notes, creamy indulgence, and a light, airy texture that elevates any holiday table with elegant Italian flair.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Italian Holiday Tiramisu is the ultimate crowd-pleaser for Christmas, New Year’s, or any festive occasion because it’s incredibly easy to make—no oven required! The combination of bold espresso-soaked Savoiardi ladyfingers with a luscious, not-too-sweet mascarpone cream creates a perfect balance of flavors: bitter coffee, subtle sweetness, and creamy richness.

It tastes even better after chilling overnight, making it an ideal make-ahead dessert that frees up your time during busy holidays. Guests will rave about its authentic Italian taste, light-yet-decadent texture, and beautiful presentation—simple elegance that feels special without the stress. Plus, it’s versatile for alcohol-free or boozy versions, ensuring everyone can enjoy this timeless treat.

Yield: 12 servings

Italian Holiday Tiramisu Recipe

Festive no-bake Italian tiramisu with coffee-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone layers, and cocoa dusting—perfect holiday indulgence!

Prep Time 30 minutes

Additional Time 6 hours

Total Time 6 hours 30 minutes

Ingredients

500g (about 2 cups) mascarpone cheese, room temperature
5 large eggs, separated (use fresh, high-quality)
100-120g (about ½ cup) granulated sugar, divided
300-400ml (about 1½ cups) strong brewed espresso or coffee, cooled
2-3 tbsp dark rum, Marsala, or coffee liqueur (optional)
36-40 Savoiardi ladyfingers (about 2-3 packages)
Unsweetened cocoa powder, for generous dusting
Optional: 50g dark chocolate, grated for extra layers

Instructions

Brew and cool your coffee magic — Make a strong pot of espresso or coffee (the bolder, the better for that authentic kick!). Stir in your optional liqueur if using, then let it cool completely in a shallow dish—patience here prevents soggy layers!
Separate those eggs with care — Crack your fresh eggs, separating yolks from whites into two clean bowls. Room-temperature eggs whip up fluffier—trust me, it's worth the wait!
Whip the yolks to creamy perfection — Beat the yolks with half the sugar (about 50-60g) using an electric mixer until pale, thick, and ribbony (about 5 minutes). This creates a luxurious base—your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Fold in the mascarpone star — Gently fold the softened mascarpone into the yolk mixture until smooth and velvety. No lumps—take your time for that dreamy texture everyone loves!
Whip whites into fluffy clouds — In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until foamy, then gradually add remaining sugar. Whip to stiff peaks—they should stand tall like snowy holiday peaks!
Combine for cloud-like cream — Gently fold the whipped whites into the mascarpone-yolk mixture in batches. Use a light hand to keep it airy—this is what makes it so light and irresistible!
Dip and layer like a pro — Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the cooled coffee (1-2 seconds per side—no soaking marathons!). Arrange a single layer snugly in your dish.
Spread the first creamy layer — Spoon half the mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers, smooth it out gently, and sprinkle with grated dark chocolate if desired for extra decadence.
Repeat for glorious heights — Add another layer of dipped ladyfingers, then the remaining cream. Smooth the top beautifully—your masterpiece is almost ready!
Dust and chill to bliss — Generously sift cocoa powder over the top for that classic snowy finish. Cover and refrigerate at least 6-8 hours (overnight is pure magic). Slice, serve, and watch smiles light up!

Notes

Use pasteurized eggs if concerned about raw eggs. For kids or alcohol-free, skip liqueur entirely. Best enjoyed within 2-3 days for peak freshness.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 215Total Fat 21gSaturated Fat 12gUnsaturated Fat 9gCholesterol 135mgSodium 211mgCarbohydrates 1gSugar 1gProtein 5g

The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Use very fresh eggs at room temperature for the best volume when whipping whites (or yolks for safety).
Brew strong espresso or coffee and let it cool completely to avoid soggy layers.
Don’t over-soak the ladyfingers—just a quick dip for moisture without falling apart.
For smoother cream, let mascarpone soften slightly before mixing.
Sift cocoa powder generously on top for an even, professional finish.
Chill at least 6-8 hours (overnight is best) for flavors to meld and layers to set.
If raw eggs concern you, use pasteurized or gently cook yolks over a double boiler.
Grate dark chocolate between layers for extra depth and subtle crunch.

Ingredients Notes

Mascarpone cheese — The star ingredient; this rich, creamy Italian cheese gives the signature velvety texture. Choose high-quality, full-fat for the best results—avoid substitutes like cream cheese, as they alter the authentic taste and consistency.
Savoiardi (ladyfingers) — Crisp Italian sponge biscuits that soak up coffee beautifully without disintegrating. Look for authentic Savoiardi (not soft ones) for proper structure.
Eggs — Traditional recipes use separated yolks and whites; yolks add richness, whites add lightness. Use fresh, high-quality eggs; room temperature helps them whip better.
Strong brewed coffee or espresso — Essential for the bold “tira mi su” (pick me up) flavor—make it strong and bitter to balance sweetness. Cool it fully.
Sugar — Granulated or caster for smooth incorporation; adjust slightly for sweetness preference.
Cocoa powder — Unsweetened, preferably Dutch-processed for richer color and flavor; dust generously for that classic look.
Optional liqueur (like rum, Marsala, or coffee liqueur) — Adds depth to the soak; omit for alcohol-free holiday version suitable for all ages.

Variations and Substitutions

For a holiday twist, add festive flavors like a splash of amaretto or hazelnut liqueur in the coffee soak for nutty warmth, or layer in crushed peppermint candies for a Christmas vibe. Make it alcohol-free by using coffee alone or adding vanilla extract. For a lighter version, fold in whipped heavy cream instead of egg whites.

Chocolate lovers can grate dark chocolate between layers or use chocolate-dipped ladyfingers. Berry variation: incorporate fresh raspberries or strawberries for a colorful, seasonal holiday touch. Gluten-free? Use gluten-free ladyfingers. Dairy-free adaptations exist with vegan mascarpone alternatives, though texture changes slightly. For individual servings, assemble in glasses for elegant portion control at parties.

Storage Options

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—the flavors improve on day 2! Avoid freezing, as it can make the cream separate and ladyfingers soggy upon thawing. If needed, freeze individual portions up to 1 month, but thaw slowly in the fridge and consume quickly.