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Tiramisu Ice Cream: The Ultimate Guide to Making It at Home


  • Total Time: 420 minutes
  • Yield: 6-8 servings 1x

Description

Creamy, dreamy Tiramisu Ice Cream! This no-churn recipe combines a rich zabaglione base with mascarpone cream and coffee-soaked ladyfingers for the ultimate Italian dessert experience.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 large egg yolks
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup Marsala wine (sweet or semi-sweet)
  • Pinch of salt
  • 16 ounces (2 cups) mascarpone cheese, cold
  • 1 cup heavy cream, cold
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
  • 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (such as Kahlua or Tia Maria)
  • Approximately 24 ladyfingers (savoiardi biscuits)
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
  • Chocolate shavings, for garnish
  • Espresso beans, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Zabaglione Base: In a heatproof bowl, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, and salt until pale yellow and slightly thickened (2-3 minutes). Gradually whisk in Marsala wine.
  2. Place the bowl over a saucepan of simmering water (double boiler). Whisk constantly for 8-10 minutes, or until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and transfer to a clean bowl.
  3. Whisk for another minute or two to release any remaining heat. Then, place the bowl in an ice bath (a larger bowl filled with ice and a little water) and continue to whisk occasionally until the zabaglione is completely cool. This cooling process can take about 20-30 minutes.
  4. Make the Mascarpone Cream: In a separate bowl, whip cold heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar and vanilla extract; continue whipping until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip.
  5. In a large bowl, gently soften cold mascarpone cheese with a spatula. Gently fold the whipped cream into the softened mascarpone cheese in two or three additions. Use a light hand to avoid deflating the whipped cream. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
  6. Prepare Coffee Soak and Ladyfingers: In a shallow dish, combine cooled coffee and coffee liqueur (if using). Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture for a few seconds per side. Cut ladyfingers into smaller pieces if needed.
  7. Assemble the Tiramisu Ice Cream: Gently fold the cooled zabaglione base into the mascarpone cream mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can deflate the mixture.
  8. In a freezer-safe container, spread a thin layer of the zabaglione-mascarpone cream mixture on the bottom.
  9. Arrange a layer of the coffee-soaked ladyfingers over the cream. Make sure to cover the entire surface.
  10. Repeat the layers of cream and ladyfingers until all the ingredients are used, ending with a layer of cream on top.
  11. Cover the container tightly with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface of the ice cream to prevent ice crystals from forming. Then, cover with a lid or another layer of foil. Freeze for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight, until the ice cream is firm.
  12. Serve: Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes to soften slightly. Dust the top with cocoa powder. Garnish with chocolate shavings or espresso beans (optional). Scoop and serve.

Notes

  • The zabaglione is the heart of this Tiramisu Ice Cream, giving it that rich, custardy flavor. Don’t skip this step – it’s what makes it truly special!
  • Be patient and don’t stop whisking! If the mixture starts to curdle, immediately remove it from the heat and whisk vigorously until it smooths out.
  • Make sure your mascarpone and heavy cream are very cold for the best results.
  • Be careful not to overwhip the cream, as it can turn into butter.
  • A quick dip is key! Over-soaked ladyfingers will make the ice cream soggy.
  • Be careful not to overmix, as this can deflate the mixture.
  • Prep Time: 45 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes