Mary Berry's Tiramisu Recipe [GUIDE]

Mary Berry’s Tiramisu is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert, blending rich coffee flavors with layers of creamy mascarpone and lusciously soaked ladyfingers. Known for her iconic presence on the British baking scene, Mary Berry takes this beloved dessert and infuses it with her signature technique and precision. While traditional tiramisu is made with a balance of coffee, rum, and mascarpone, Mary’s recipe is often simplified to suit British palates, making it slightly lighter yet equally indulgent.

Her version of Tiramisu tends to keep the essential elements-moist, espresso-soaked sponge fingers, creamy mascarpone filling, and a dusting of cocoa powder-while leaving out the heavy use of alcohol, allowing the pure flavors of coffee and cream to shine. This makes it a more approachable dessert for a wider audience, perfect for family gatherings, special occasions, or even as a showstopper at dinner parties. Mary Berry’s Tiramisu is as much about technique as it is about flavor, offering a sophisticated dessert that feels comforting and accessible.

Mary Berry’s Tiramisu Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To recreate Mary Berry’s Tiramisu, you’ll need a mix of ingredients that balance both the richness and lightness of the dessert. The ingredients should be easy to find in any well-stocked supermarket, but their quality makes all the difference in the final taste. Here’s what you’ll need:

Mascarpone Cheese: The creamy base of the dessert. Opt for full-fat mascarpone for the richest flavor and texture. It should be smooth and velvety to achieve the desired consistency.
Double Cream: This will add extra richness and a smooth texture to the filling. Double cream (or heavy cream) has a higher fat content, which contributes to the indulgent mouthfeel of the dessert.
Caster Sugar: A fine sugar that dissolves easily, ensuring a smooth, velvety cream without any graininess. Caster sugar is ideal for desserts like tiramisu, where smoothness is key.
Vanilla Extract: A touch of vanilla enhances the flavor, balancing the richness of the mascarpone and cream. Always go for pure vanilla extract for the best results.
Espresso or Strong Coffee: The coffee soak is essential to tiramisu’s unique flavor profile. Strong espresso is best, but if you don’t have an espresso machine, make a strong pot of coffee-just be sure it’s rich and bold to properly flavor the sponge.
Ladyfingers (Savoiardi): These airy, finger-shaped biscuits are the heart of the dessert. They soak up the coffee but hold their shape, creating the layered texture that tiramisu is known for.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder is used to dust the top of the tiramisu, adding a slightly bitter contrast to the rich cream and coffee flavors. This finishing touch also contributes to the visual appeal of the dessert.

Equipment Needed

Making Mary Berry’s Tiramisu doesn’t require any specialized or complicated equipment, but there are a few key tools that will help streamline the process:

Mixing Bowls: A couple of large mixing bowls are essential for combining the mascarpone mixture and the cream, as well as for soaking the ladyfingers. Using different bowls for each stage will keep things organized.
Electric Mixer: While you could mix the mascarpone and whipped cream by hand, an electric mixer will make the process much easier and faster, ensuring the cream is perfectly whipped and smooth. A hand-held mixer is ideal for this.
Spatula: For folding ingredients together, a rubber spatula is perfect. It helps to incorporate the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture without deflating the fluffiness.
Shallow Dish or Trifle Bowl: Tiramisu is traditionally served in a shallow, wide dish or trifle bowl. This allows for easy layering and helps the dessert set evenly. A glass bowl will also let the beautiful layers of the tiramisu shine through.
Sifter or Fine Mesh Strainer: This is used to dust the cocoa powder over the top of the dessert in a fine, even layer. It’s key to a beautiful, smooth finish.
Serving Spoon: A large serving spoon is useful for portioning out the tiramisu and ensuring each piece has a generous amount of the creamy layers.

Instructions To Make Mary Berry’s Tiramisu

Prepare the Coffee: Begin by brewing strong espresso or coffee. You’ll need about 200 ml of liquid. Let it cool slightly before moving on to the next step.
Whip the Cream: In a separate mixing bowl, pour the double cream. Using an electric mixer, whip the cream until it reaches soft peaks. Be careful not to overwhip-it should still have some softness.
Mix the Mascarpone: In another large mixing bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese with the caster sugar and vanilla extract. Beat together until smooth and lump-free. This can be done with a hand whisk or electric mixer on low speed.
Combine the Cream and Mascarpone: Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture using a spatula. Work slowly and carefully, as you don’t want to deflate the whipped cream. The result should be a smooth, creamy filling that’s light but still substantial.
Soak the Ladyfingers: Quickly dip the ladyfingers into the coffee. Be cautious not to soak them for too long-just a quick dunk is enough, as you don’t want them to become too soggy.
Layer the Tiramisu: In a shallow dish or trifle bowl, layer the soaked ladyfingers at the bottom. Spread a generous layer of the mascarpone mixture over the top. Repeat the process until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of the creamy mascarpone.
Chill and Set: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate the tiramisu for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best. This gives the flavors time to meld and the dessert to set.
Finish with Cocoa Powder: Just before serving, sift a light dusting of cocoa powder over the top of the tiramisu to add that signature bitter finish.

Tips And Tricks

Chill Your Bowls and Cream: For the best whipped cream, chill your mixing bowls and beaters in the fridge before you start. Cold cream whips faster and holds its shape better.
Use Strong Coffee or Espresso: The flavor of the coffee is one of the main components of tiramisu, so be sure to brew strong coffee or espresso. Avoid using instant coffee, as it can lack the depth of flavor needed.
Don’t Soak Ladyfingers Too Long: Ladyfingers are designed to absorb liquid, but if you soak them for too long, they will become soggy and fall apart. A quick dunk-about 1-2 seconds-is all they need to absorb the coffee.
Make Ahead: Tiramisu actually tastes better the longer it sits, so it’s the perfect dessert to make ahead of time. If you make it the night before, the flavors will have time to meld, and the texture will be just right.
Alcohol-Free Option: Mary Berry’s version of tiramisu typically doesn’t include any alcohol, but if you want to add a traditional touch, a splash of rum or marsala wine can be added to the coffee.

Mary Berry’s Tiramisu is a quintessential crowd-pleaser, offering a perfect balance of creamy, coffee-soaked indulgence. With her take on this classic Italian dessert, she keeps things straightforward yet sophisticated, creating a version that is both simple to prepare and a joy to eat. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want to treat yourself to something special, this tiramisu is a versatile dessert that’s guaranteed to impress. With just a few key ingredients and some careful layering, you can make this creamy, decadent dessert that offers the perfect mix of textures and flavors-rich, yet light, indulgent, yet comforting.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Tiramisu

Mary Berry’s Tiramisu is already a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert, but with a few simple adjustments, you can personalize it to suit different tastes or dietary preferences. Here are some easy variations you can try:

Berry-Infused Tiramisu

Instead of the traditional coffee-soaked ladyfingers, you can swap them for a fruitier alternative. Consider soaking your ladyfingers in berry compote or fruit juice. Fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries can be incorporated either in the layers or as a garnish on top. The acidity of the berries cuts through the richness of the mascarpone, creating a refreshing contrast. For an extra burst of flavor, add a touch of lemon zest or citrus juice to the cream mixture for a citrusy twist.
Chocolate Hazelnut Tiramisu

For a more indulgent version, try adding a layer of chocolate hazelnut spread (like Nutella) between the mascarpone layers. You can even mix the mascarpone with a bit of melted dark chocolate, creating a creamy, velvety texture with rich cocoa undertones. Swap out the coffee for chocolate liqueur or hazelnut syrup to enhance the flavor. Top it with crushed toasted hazelnuts or cocoa nibs for an added crunch.
Vegan Tiramisu

If you’re following a plant-based diet, don’t worry! You can still enjoy a version of Mary Berry’s Tiramisu. For the mascarpone filling, use vegan cream cheese or a blend of coconut milk and silken tofu to replicate the creamy texture. Vegan ladyfingers (or a similar sponge cake) can be found in most health food stores. Use strong brewed coffee or espresso and opt for a plant-based liqueur (like a rum or whiskey substitute) to soak the biscuits. To make it extra creamy, add a dollop of whipped coconut cream on top before serving.
Coffee and Rum Tiramisu

For a deeper flavor profile, incorporate dark rum into the coffee soaking liquid for the ladyfingers. This addition brings a bit of warmth and richness to the dessert. You can also infuse the mascarpone filling with a bit of coffee-flavored liqueur, such as Kahlua, to intensify the coffee flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg in the mascarpone mixture will create an aromatic depth that pairs wonderfully with the rum.
Tiramisu with a Biscuit Base

Instead of the classic ladyfingers, try using crushed digestive biscuits or even graham crackers to form a crunchy base layer. These alternatives give the dessert a slightly different texture and can complement the softness of the mascarpone filling. For an extra crunch, toast the crushed biscuits in the oven for a few minutes before assembling the tiramisu.
Tiramisu with a Nutty Twist

For those who love a nutty flavor, try incorporating crushed almonds, pistachios, or walnuts into the layers of your tiramisu. These nuts can be added to the cream filling or sprinkled between the layers of soaked ladyfingers. The crunch adds a satisfying texture, while the natural oils in the nuts enhance the overall richness of the dessert. A sprinkling of finely ground espresso beans on top also works well with the nutty elements, giving an extra layer of flavor complexity.
Tiramisu with a Tropical Flair

For a more exotic take, you can create a tropical version of Mary Berry’s Tiramisu. Use coconut milk in place of some of the mascarpone cheese for a lighter texture with a subtle coconut flavor. Soak the ladyfingers in pineapple juice or even a coconut rum cocktail. Garnish with toasted coconut flakes and slices of fresh mango or kiwi for a visually stunning and refreshing dessert.

These variations allow you to adapt Mary Berry’s Tiramisu to suit any occasion or preference, whether you’re looking for a lighter, fruitier option or a richer, more decadent version.

Storing Leftovers

Tiramisu is a dessert that gets even better after it’s had time to sit and let all the flavors meld together. However, it’s important to store any leftovers properly to maintain its freshness and flavor.

Refrigeration

Tiramisu should always be stored in the fridge because it contains perishable ingredients like mascarpone cheese and whipped cream. Transfer any leftover tiramisu to an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from absorbing any unwanted odors from the fridge. It will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator, but it’s best enjoyed within the first 1-2 days for the freshest taste.
Freezing Leftovers

If you’re not able to finish your tiramisu within a few days, you can freeze it. While freezing won’t preserve the texture quite as well as refrigeration, it still works for longer-term storage. To freeze tiramisu, place individual servings or the whole dessert in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Be aware that the texture may change slightly, and the cream could become a bit watery, but the flavors will remain intact.
Reviving Leftover Tiramisu

If your leftover tiramisu looks a bit too soft after refrigeration or freezing, you can revive it by gently stirring the layers or allowing it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving. If you froze it, the texture may be a bit more crumbly, but a drizzle of fresh espresso or coffee syrup on top can help enhance the flavor and provide a moist finish.

What To Eat With Mary Berry’s Tiramisu?

Mary Berry’s Tiramisu is a rich, creamy dessert that pairs wonderfully with a variety of foods and beverages, making it a versatile option for any meal. Here are some ideas for what to eat alongside this delectable treat:

Light Salads

Since tiramisu is quite indulgent, pairing it with a light salad can provide a nice contrast. A simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or a fresh caprese salad (tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil) balances out the richness of the tiramisu, offering freshness and acidity. A citrusy dressing or a balsamic glaze can further enhance the contrast in flavors.
Coffee or Espresso

Naturally, tiramisu pairs beautifully with coffee or espresso, especially since it’s made with coffee-soaked ladyfingers. A hot cup of espresso, a cappuccino, or even a coffee-flavored liqueur like Baileys Irish Cream or Kahlua enhances the dessert’s flavor while offering a bittersweet balance to the sweet creaminess of the tiramisu.
Chocolate Desserts

For those who want to really indulge, a chocolate dessert like chocolate truffles, mousse, or a rich flourless chocolate cake makes an excellent accompaniment to tiramisu. The deep chocolate flavor contrasts beautifully with the coffee-cream layers, creating a decadent pairing for chocolate lovers.
Fresh Fruit

Since tiramisu is a very creamy and rich dessert, you can lighten it up by serving it with fresh, tangy fruit such as berries, citrus slices, or even pomegranate seeds. The freshness of the fruit offers a sweet and tart counterpoint to the smooth richness of the tiramisu, making each bite feel less heavy.
Cheese

If you’re serving tiramisu as part of a more elaborate meal or as a part of a cheese board, it can pair well with cheeses that have a rich, creamy texture but are not overly sharp or pungent. Mild cheeses like mascarpone (which is already in the tiramisu) or a soft goat cheese can work well alongside it.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Tiramisu offers a fresh take on the classic Italian dessert, balancing the richness of mascarpone with the deep flavor of coffee and cocoa. Whether you choose to stick with the traditional recipe or add your own unique twist, the beauty of this dessert lies in its versatility and ease of preparation. From fruity variations to indulgent chocolate versions, there’s a Mary Berry Tiramisu for every occasion.

And while it’s undeniably delicious on its own, the dessert’s richness makes it an ideal choice for pairing with lighter dishes, strong coffees, or even a cheese course. By carefully storing your leftovers in the fridge (or freezing them for later), you can keep the magic of tiramisu alive for days to come.

FAQs

What Makes Mary Berry’s Tiramisu Recipe Different From Traditional Versions?

Mary Berry’s tiramisu recipe offers a slightly lighter and less rich take on the classic dessert. Instead of using mascarpone mixed with whipped cream, she incorporates a blend of double cream and mascarpone, which gives a smoother texture without being too heavy. Additionally, her recipe uses less alcohol than some traditional versions, which makes it more family-friendly.

Can I Prepare Mary Berry’s Tiramisu In Advance?

Yes, Mary Berry’s tiramisu is ideal for preparing in advance. In fact, allowing it to sit in the fridge for several hours or even overnight enhances the flavors, as the coffee-soaked ladyfingers absorb the creamy mascarpone mixture. Just be sure to cover it well with cling film to prevent any odors from seeping in.

Can I Substitute Ingredients In Mary Berry’s Tiramisu Recipe?

Yes, there are a few substitutions you can make in Mary Berry’s tiramisu recipe. For example, if you can’t find ladyfingers, you can use sponge fingers or even a soft sponge cake cut into strips. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, you can skip the Marsala wine or coffee liqueur and substitute with more coffee or a splash of vanilla extract for flavor.

Mary Berry’s Tiramisu Recipe [GUIDE]