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Tiramisu (Whole Egg Method – No Cream)

Recipe by Jenn Giam Smith

  • Total Time8 hours 25 minutes
  • Yield9 servings 1x
  • DietVegetarian

This whole egg tiramisu is light, creamy, and beautifully balanced—made without heavy cream and with zero waste. Inspired by traditional Italian technique, this version uses whipped egg whites for structure and almond extract instead of alcohol for a soft, cozy flavor.

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Close-up of a classic tiramisu slice showing layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cream

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Cream

  • 4 large eggs, separated
  • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar, divided
  • 1 cup (227g) mascarpone cheese (8 oz), room temperature

For the Assembly

  • 1 3/4 cups strong espresso or very strong coffee, cooled
  • 1 teaspoon almond extract (or vanilla extract)
  • About 24 ladyfingers (savoiardi)
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1-2 ounces bittersweet chocolate, shaved (optional)

Instructions

  1. Separate the eggs
    Carefully separate the egg yolks and whites into two bowls. Place the yolks in a larger bowl for later mixing.
  2. Whip the egg whites
    Using a clean hand mixer, beat the egg whites until frothy. Add ¼ cup of the sugar and continue beating until stiff, glossy peaks form.
    Set aside.
  3. Make the mascarpone mixture
    Add the remaining ¼ cup sugar to the egg yolks and beat until pale and thick.
    Add the mascarpone and mix until smooth and creamy.
  4. Fold in egg whites
    Add one-third of the whipped egg whites to the mascarpone mixture and gently fold using a spatula.
    Continue folding in the remaining egg whites in thirds until fully incorporated. Do not overmix.
  5. Prepare the coffee mixture
    In a shallow bowl, combine the cooled espresso with almond extract.
  6. Dip the ladyfingers
    Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture (about 2–3 seconds total), turning to coat both sides.
  7. Layer the base
    Arrange dipped ladyfingers in an even layer in a 7-quart casserole dish or similar.
  8. Add first cream layer
    Spread half of the mascarpone mixture evenly over the ladyfingers.
    Sprinkle with shaved chocolate if using.
  9. Repeat layers
    Add another layer of dipped ladyfingers, followed by the remaining mascarpone mixture.
  10. Finish and chill
    Dust the top with cocoa powder.
    Refrigerate for at least 6–8 hours, or overnight, until set.
  11. Serve
    Slice into 9 portions and serve chilled.

Equipment

Notes

  • Chill time matters: This dessert needs time to set—overnight is best for flavor and texture.
  • No alcohol option: Almond extract adds a warm, cozy flavor, but vanilla works just as well.
  • Want a traditional version? Substitute almond extract with coffee liqueur or Marsala wine.
  • Coffee tip: Use strong, good-quality coffee or espresso—this is a key flavor in the dish.
  • Mascarpone tip: Let mascarpone come to room temperature for smoother mixing.
  • Egg safety: Use fresh, high-quality eggs. Pasteurized eggs can be used if preferred.
  • Storage: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Best enjoyed on day 2.
  • Freezing: Not recommended, as texture may change.

Find it online: https://www.jenn-smith.com/tiramisu-without-alcohol/