No-Bake Classic Tiramisu Cups

Classic Tiramisu Cups

Tiramisu is a timeless Italian dessert that has charmed dessert lovers worldwide with its creamy texture and rich coffee flavors. When served in individual cups, this classic treat becomes a convenient and elegant way to end any meal. In this blog post, we'll dive into the recipe, nutritional value, and what to pair with this delightful dessert.

Ingredients (serving 4 people)

• 1 cup of strong brewed espresso, cooled
• 2 tablespoons of coffee liqueur (optional)
• 3 large egg yolks
• 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
• 1 cup of mascarpone cheese
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup of heavy cream, whipped to soft peaks
• 8-10 ladyfinger biscuits
• Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
• Dark chocolate shavings, for garnish (optional)

Cooking Method

1. Prepare the Espresso Mixture: In a shallow dish, combine the cooled espresso and coffee liqueur. Set aside.
2. Make the Creamy Filling: In a heatproof bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar. Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water, ensuring the bottom doesn't touch the water, and whisk continuously until the mixture becomes pale and thick, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
3. Combine with Mascarpone and Cream: Gently fold the mascarpone and vanilla extract into the egg mixture until smooth. Then, carefully fold in the whipped cream until well combined.
4. Assemble the Cups: Break each ladyfinger into pieces that fit into your serving cups. Briefly dip the ladyfinger pieces in the espresso mixture and place a layer in the bottom of each cup. Spoon a layer of the mascarpone filling over the ladyfingers. Repeat the process to have another layer, ensuring the mascarpone mixture is the topmost layer.
5. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the tiramisu cups for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. Just before serving, dust the tops with cocoa powder and garnish with dark chocolate shavings if desired.

Nutritional Value

Tiramisu is a decadent dessert, primarily composed of mascarpone cheese, eggs, and sugar, which makes it high in fat and calories. Each serving offers approximately 350-400 calories, with a good balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, due to the combination of cream and eggs. It's important to savor this dessert in moderation, as it is a treat more than a health food.

Best Pairings

To complement the richness of tiramisu, consider pairing it with:

• Drinks: A small shot of espresso or a cup of cappuccino accentuates the coffee flavors in the dessert. For a more festive occasion, a glass of sweet dessert wine like Vin Santo or a smooth port wine can be excellent choices.
• Side Dishes: While tiramisu stands well on its own as a dessert, serving it with a light, refreshing fruit salad can be a delightful contrast to its creamy texture.

Enjoy this classic treat with these perfect pairings to elevate your dessert experience!