Description
This easy Chocolate Tiramisu is a decadent twist on the classic Italian dessert, combining rich chocolate ganache, creamy mascarpone, and espresso-soaked ladyfingers. Perfect for chocolate lovers, this no-bake layered dessert requires minimal preparation and yields a smooth, luscious finish ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Ganache
- 180g heavy cream (3/4 cup)
- 160g dark or semi sweet chocolate
Mascarpone Cream
- 2 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream, chilled (600g)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (110g)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 8 to 12 ounces good quality mascarpone cheese, slightly cooler than room temperature (225-340g)
Assembly
- ~30-35 ladyfingers
- 1 1/2 cups espresso or strong coffee, cooled
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder, plus more for dusting
Instructions
- Make the Ganache: Bring 180g of heavy cream to a boil in a saucepan. Immediately pour the hot cream over 160g chopped dark or semi-sweet chocolate placed in a heat-safe bowl. Cover and let it sit for 5 minutes, then stir gently until the chocolate fully melts and forms a smooth, shiny ganache.
- Prepare the Mascarpone Cream: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the chilled 2 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream with 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract until the cream thickens and forms soft peaks. Gradually add 8 to 12 ounces of mascarpone cheese in 2-3 additions, mixing on low speed until well combined and smooth. Adjust mascarpone quantity for desired thickness and flavor.
- Assemble the Tiramisu: Mix 1 tablespoon cocoa powder into the cooled espresso or strong coffee and pour into a deep plate. Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the espresso for about 2 seconds per side, ensuring they don’t get soggy, and arrange them tightly in the bottom of a 9×9 inch pan or dish to form the first layer.
- Add Cream Layers: Spread half of the mascarpone cream evenly over the ladyfingers using an offset spatula. Then pour over half of the ganache, spreading it gently to cover the cream layer.
- Create Second Layer: Repeat the process by dipping and arranging another layer of ladyfingers soaked in espresso. Spread the remaining mascarpone cream over this second layer, followed by the remaining ganache.
- Chill: Cover the dish and refrigerate the assembled tiramisu for at least 4 hours to allow flavors to meld and dessert to set, although overnight refrigeration is preferred for best results.
- Serve: Just before serving, dust the top generously with additional cocoa powder for an elegant finish.
Notes
- Use good quality espresso or very strong brewed coffee for the best flavor.
- Do not over-soak the ladyfingers to prevent sogginess; a quick dip of about 2 seconds per side is ideal.
- Mascarpone should be slightly cooler than room temperature to blend smoothly.
- The dessert improves in flavor and texture if chilled overnight.
- This recipe can be prepared a day ahead, making it great for entertaining.
