Grandma's Secret Tiramisu

The Recipe I Begged For

One bite in a tiny Roman trattoria and I knew I had to have this recipe. The owner's grandmother had passed it down through three generations, and after much pleading (and several return visits), she finally shared her secrets.

This isn't your average tiramisu - it's the kind that makes you close your eyes and sigh with every spoonful.

Nonna's Tiramisu Secrets

Ingredients:

• 6 egg yolks
• ¾ cup white sugar
• 1¼ cups mascarpone (room temperature)
• 1¾ cups heavy cream
• 2 packages ladyfinger cookies
• 1 cup strong espresso (cooled)
• 3 tbsp coffee liqueur
• Unsweetened cocoa powder

The Secret Method

1. Whisk egg yolks and sugar until thick and pale (the secret: 10 minutes by hand)
2. Add mascarpone gradually - it must be room temperature
3. Whip cream to soft peaks separately, fold in gently
4. Mix espresso and liqueur
5. Quick dip ladyfingers - don't oversoak!
6. Layer: cookies, cream, repeat
7. Chill overnight minimum (patience is key)
8. Dust with cocoa just before serving

The real secret? Respect the process. No shortcuts, no rushing. Nonna always said good things take time.