Name: Easy Mini Italian Tiramisu Trifle In Individual Jars
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: PT-481072H31M59S
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 500g Mascarpone Cheese; 6 egg yolks (Pasteurized); 6 egg whites (Pasteurized); 5 tablespoons of granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons of Vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon of cream of tartar; ¼ teaspoon of fine sea salt; 2 Cups of strong-brewed coffee; 4 Tablespoons of Amaretto; 12 pieces of Ladyfingers (3 pieces per jar); 1 teaspoon of Dark unsweetened cocoa powder (As needed)

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Prepare your appetite for this deliciously decadent, splendid, marvelous Italian dessert. We are making a Mini Italian Tiramisu trifle in a jar today! This timeless Italian delicacy is a creamy, velvety treat infused with flavorful, rich coffee and Amaretto liquor. Each bite of Tiramisu is a luxurious experience, and this no-bake Italian dessert sure will take your culinary experience to the next level.

P.S. Your taste buds will dance with joy.

Mini Italian Tiramisu Trifles in a jar with ladyfingers.

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I’m thrilled to share my favorite classic Italian dessert recipe in today’s post. I’m not just going to give you any ordinary recipe. Oh no, my friend! I will share an authentic Italian recipe I learned from a dear friend while studying fashion design in Milan, Italy, many moons ago.

But wait, there’s more! Instead of serving it in a traditional 8 by 8 baking dish, I’ve got a little trick up my sleeve. I want to add a little fun twist to this legendary Italian dessert; we’ll make mini Tiramisu trifles in Weck jars!

Picture this, my friend – layers of creamy Mascarpone cheese and egg mixture, soft ladyfingers soaked in rich, decadent Illy coffee and liquor, and dusted with dark chocolate powder, all perfectly portioned in a cute vintage-looking Weck jar. It’s the perfect dessert for any occasion.

A fork is digging in the jar and scooped up some Tiramisu.

I’ve decided to serve my Tiramisu this way, assuming you are like me and love overindulging in desserts. With this perfect portion mini Tiramisu, you don’t have to worry about ruining and compromising your diet plan. I want you to enjoy this delicious guilt-free dessert like I am.

Mini Italian Tiramisu trifle in an individual jar. Decorated with Ladyfingers.

Recipe Snapshot

EASE: Super easy to make and assemble. The best part is that this is a no-bake dessert.
PROS: Perfect portions as healthier treats.
CONS: You might be tempted to have a 2nd jar.
WOULD I MAKE THIS AGAIN? Absolutely! This is perfect for a dinner party.

A jar of Tiramisu sitting on top of a stack of white plates. A fork is picking up some tiramisu.

What is Tiramisu?

Tiramisu is enjoyed all over the world and is a favorite among coffee and dessert lovers. Tiramisu is a classic Italian dessert known for its velvety and rich texture. It is made by layering ladyfingers soaked in espresso and Amaretto, followed by a creamy Mascarpone cheese, sugar, and egg mixture, then dusted with dark chocolate powder or shavings. The dessert is best served chilled for the following day. It is widely available in coffee shops, restaurants, and even Costco sells them.

What is the history and origin of Tiramisu?

Ti-Ra-Mi-Su (Just like the name, this is how you pronounce it.) The name “Tiramisu” means “Pick me up” or “Lift me up” in Italian, which is a reference to the energizing effects of the dessert.

Its origin is a matter of debate. One theory suggests that Tiramisu was created by a pastry chef in Treviso, Italy, looking for a dessert that would appeal to children and adults. He created a layered dessert using ladyfingers, Mascarpone cheese, and coffee that became an instant hit.

Today, Tiramisu is a staple dessert in many Italian restaurants and a worldwide sensation. It has also inspired many variations and twists on the classic recipe. It is definitely a modern classic dessert that everyone loves.

Why should anyone make this recipe?

There are millions of reasons, but I sum up 5 main points for you:

3 jars of Tiramisu with dusted dark chocolate powder.

Totally Authentic – My recipe for Tiramisu follows the authentic Italian style, which sets it apart from the sweeter version commonly found in America.
Easy and hassle-free – This delicious no-bake restaurant-style dessert can be prepared beforehand, so you’re not scrambling to make dessert while you are in a hurry to attend your next event.
Perfect portion – Mini-individual portions make it easy to control your indulgence without sacrificing taste. Perfect portion control for guilt-free pleasure. (no need to break your diet plan)
Longer shelf life – By containing the dessert in a jar helps extend the shelf life inside the refrigerator. Plus, it makes them easy to transport to your next gathering or as a special treat to enjoy anytime at home.
Well-balanced flavors – The complex flavors of rich, dark chocolate powder, robust espresso, and bold liquor expertly harmonize to counterbalance the luscious sweetness of the mascarpone and egg mixtures.

What is the difference between Italian Tiramisu VS American Tiramisu?

Regarding Tiramisu, while both are equally delicious, the differences between the Italian and American versions lie in their unique ingredients and preparation methods. Though it may be difficult to spot the differences by appearance alone, one bite of each is enough to distinguish their unique characteristics.

Italian style Tiramisu in a jar that is decorated with a ladyfinger.

Italian Tiramisu:

What sets the Italian version apart is that it has no heavy cream. Instead, it’s made with raw egg yolks, egg whites, sugar, Mascarpone cheese, espresso, and Amaretto or sweet Marsala wine. The resulting texture is light and airy, complementing the rich flavors of dark chocolate, coffee, and liquor. You get a perfect balance of sweetness and bitterness that is just irresistible!

American Tiramisu:

When it comes to American Tiramisu, many recipes opt for a twist on the traditional raw egg yolks and egg whites by using heavy cream instead. To mimic the texture of the original recipe, some American versions may also make Zabaglione – a mixture of egg yolks, sugar, and Marsala wine – and cook it over a double boiler until it’s tempered and the sugar is melted. The resulting American Tiramisu is generally richer, thicker, and sweeter than the Italian version, reflecting different culinary preferences and cultural influences.

What is the difference between Mascarpone cheese and cream cheese?

While both kinds of cheese have unique characteristics and uses, their fat content, flavor, and origin are the main differences.

Mascarpone cheese:

If you’re a fan of Italian desserts, you’ve likely come across Mascarpone cheese. Mascarpone is a luxurious Italian cheese from the Lombardy region of Southern Italy. It has a delicate flavor and high fat content. This creamy, velvety cheese is a staple ingredient in Tiramisu and other classic Italian desserts.

Here are some key points to know about Mascarpone:

Mascarpone is an Italian cheese made from curdling cow’s milk cream with citric acid, which gives it a slightly tangy flavor.
It has a high-fat content (typically around 70%), giving it a rich, luxurious texture.
The flavor is delicate and subtle, making it a versatile ingredient in sweet and savory dishes.
Mascarpone is not typically used in cooking, as it is too delicate to handle high heat. Instead, it is commonly used as a spread, dip, or ingredient in desserts like Tiramisu or puddings.

Cream cheese:

In contrast, cream cheese is a tangy American cheese with a lower fat content in various dishes. While cream cheese is not typically used in Italian cuisine, it is popular in many American desserts and dishes.

Here are some key points to know about cream cheese:

Cream cheese is an American cheese made from a mixture of milk and cream.
It has a tangy flavor and a smooth, spreadable texture.
Cream cheese is versatile and can be used in sweet and savory dishes, such as cheesecake, dips, and frosting.
It has a lower fat content than Mascarpone, typically around 33%.

Why is it not a good idea to substitute Mascarpone cheese with cream cheese for this recipe?

Different flavors and textures: Mascarpone has a velvety, smooth, and silky texture. The flavor is mild and slightly sweet, which gives Tiramisu its signature flavor. It is also creamier and richer than cream cheese. On the other hand, cream cheese has a denser and tangier texture. Mascarpone adds a velvety and smooth texture to Tiramisu, which is essential to the dessert’s overall experience. Using cream cheese instead of Mascarpone may alter the taste of the dessert significantly.
Authenticity: Tiramisu is an Italian dessert, and the traditional recipe calls for Mascarpone cheese. Using a different type of cheese, like cream cheese, may change the character of the dessert, making it not authentic.
Stability: Mascarpone is stable and does not curdle easily when mixed with other ingredients, making it ideal for Tiramisu use. Other cheeses may also not hold up, resulting in a runny or grainy texture.

What is Ladyfingers?

Ladyfingers, also known as Savoiardi in Italian, are light, airy sponge biscuits shaped like long, flat fingers. They are made from a simple batter of flour, sugar, and eggs piped into strips and baked. This essential ingredient is commonly used in desserts such as Tiramisu, Charlotte Russe, and trifles. Ladyfingers have been around for centuries and are believed to have originated in Italy or France. They can be purchased in many supermarkets or on Amazon. However, you can make your own at home if you feel adventurous. I recommend checking out Nonna Box’s recipe for a delicious homemade version.

What’s the best coffee to use for this recipe?

Let’s talk about the coffee component of Tiramisu, which is just as crucial as the Mascarpone cheese and Ladyfingers we’ve already covered.

Traditionally, espresso is used for authentic Tiramisu. Still, only some have an expensive espresso machine at home, so I recommend using a Bialetti Moka Stovetop Espresso Maker, the preferred method of a Swiss friend who taught me this recipe. The strong and bold flavor of bold coffee complements the sweet Mascarpone filling perfectly. Here is my post all about Moka Pot. Check it out, as it teaches you from selecting the right beans to mastering the brewing process; this guide will teach you everything you need to know to make delicious, authentic Italian coffee at home.

The perfect coffee for this Tiramisu recipe.

Pouring coffee on a big plate with a bottle of Amaretto in the background.

Pro Tip:

Instead of pouring your brewed moka coffee into a coffee mug, consider using a large round dish. This will allow the coffee to cool down more quickly, making it easier to dip your ladyfingers into the coffee and liquor mixture when assembling your dessert.

What specific brand of coffee should you get?

I recommend Lavazza and Illy. These two popular brands are commonly used in Tiramisu recipes. In this recipe post, I am using Illy, which I purchased from William Sonoma. It smells so good, and now my house smells like a cafe in Italy.

Ingredients that you would need

Here are 12 ingredients that we are going to use in this recipe:

Mascarpone Cheese – It is the main ingredient for this recipe. Its creamy, velvety texture and subtle, delicate flavor pair well with coffee and chocolate.
Pasteurized egg yolks – Create a creamy and rich base with Mascarpone
Pasteurized egg whites– are whipped to create a fluffy and light texture.

Using pasteurized eggs is important to reduce the risk of foodborne illness caused by Salmonella. Refer to my pasteurized eggs post for details.

Granulated sugar – Add sweetness to the dessert.
Vanilla Extract – Helps enhance Tiramisu’s overall taste, flavor, and aroma.
Cream of tartar – It helps stabilize the whipped egg whites. It provides structure and volume to the filling.
Fine sea salt – A pinch of sea salt brings out the sweetness and enhances the taste of coffee.
Strong Brewed Moka Coffee – Provides a rich and robust flavor that complements the other ingredients and adds depth to the dessert.
Espresso Powder – Helps intensifies the coffee flavor in the dessert. Use this when you are using regular coffee instead of espresso.
Amaretto – It adds a distinctive almond nutty flavor to the dessert. It pairs exceptionally well with coffee.
Ladyfingers – It is the “Cake” base of Tiramisu, and absorbing the coffee and liquor mixture provides a delicate texture to the dessert.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Dust some dark unsweetened cocoa powder on top of the Tiramisu to help enhance the coffee flavor and balance out the sweetness of this dessert.

How to make Tiramisu?

Stage one: Start with making the Mascarpone and egg fillings.

Step-by-step on making Mascarpone and egg fillings.

Step 1 – Whisk six egg yolks and sugar in a clean bowl until the mixture reaches the ribbon stage. (Pictures 1 to 3)

Step 2 – In another clean bowl, whisk together egg whites, cream of tartar, and a pinch of sea salt until stiff peaks form, which should take around 20 minutes because pasteurized egg whites are harder to reach stiff peaks. Just turn your speed to the highest setting and be patient. (Pictures 4 & 5)

Step 3 – Combine the vanilla extract and Mascarpone cheese into the egg mixture until smooth. Do not whip the cheese. Just use fold them in until smooth. Set aside. (Pictures 6 & 7)

Step 4 – Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the Mascarpone mixture in three batches until fully combined, being careful not to overmix. (Pictures 8 & 9). Once all ingredients combine, set the mascarpone mixture aside and move on to the next stage.

Stage two – Prepare the espresso and liquor mixture.

Step 5 – Prepare the espresso using the Moka Pot. (Pictures 10 to 13)

Step 6 – Mix in the Amaretto and stir thoroughly after letting the coffee cool. Pour the cooled coffee and amaretto mixture into a wide and deep dish to make it easier to dip the ladyfingers. (Picture 14)

Step-by-steps on making Moka Coffee and liquor mixture.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to using a Moka Pot to produce strong moka coffee the Italian way:

1) Fill the bottom chamber of the Moka Pot with cold water up to just below the safety valve.
2) Insert the filter basket into the bottom chamber of the pot.
3) Fill the filter basket with fine to medium-fine ground coffee and level off the top with your finger.
4) Screw the top chamber of the pot onto the bottom chamber, ensuring it is tightly sealed.
5) Place the Moka Pot on the stove over medium heat.
6) As the water heats up, it will be forced through the coffee grounds and up into the top chamber of the pot.
7) You will know the espresso is ready when you hear a hissing sound, and the coffee starts to pour out of the spout.
8) After brewing the espresso, turn off the heat and carefully remove the Moka Pot from the stove.
9) Give the espresso a quick stir to mix the crema (the frothy layer on top) and the liquid.
10) The espresso is quite hot. You can pour the coffee into another container and chill it in an ice bath for 5 to 10 minutes or until it reaches room temperature.

Stage three – Assemble the dessert in jars.

Step 7 – Quickly dip each ladyfinger, one at a time, into the coffee and liquor mixture to avoid oversoaking and making them soggy. (Picture 15)

Step 8 – Flip the ladyfinger over so that the soaked side faces up, allowing gravity to work its magic, and let the coffee mixture seep through slowly. (Picture 16)

Step 9 – To fit the ladyfingers into the narrow bottom of the jar, it’s best to break them into smaller pieces and layer them flat at the bottom. (Picture 17)

Step 10 – Use a spoon to scoop in Mascarpone cheese fillings and layer it above the ladyfingers.

Step 11 – Repeat steps 10 and 11 to create extra layers until the jar is filled. (Picture 18)

Step 12 – Add a finishing touch by dusting dark chocolate powder on top of the Tiramisu in a jar. Your delicious dessert is now ready to be savored.

Handy tips and tricks to make this dessert successful?

Avoid overmixing the mascarpone to prevent it from curdling.
Be careful not to over-soak the ladyfingers in the espresso mixture, as they can become soggy. A quick dip on one side is enough.
It is best to allow the tiramisu to chill for at least 8 hours or overnight before serving. This will allow the dessert to set and the coffee, liquor, and mascarpone flavors to meld together.
If you don’t have access to an espresso machine or Moka pot, you can brew some strong coffee at home and add a teaspoon of espresso powder to enhance the flavor and mimic the taste of espresso.

3 jars of Tiramisu and a moka pot at the back with 2 cups of coffee.

Tips

Substitution and variations

This dessert is highly adaptable, with many variations to try. Stay within this original recipe as closely as possible, or the outcome may differ.

Experiment with different liquors instead of Amaretto to add unique flavors to your Tiramisu in a jar. Try using dark rum, brandy, or Kahlua. Ultimately, you can use the classic Marsala wine as well.
Get creative with the presentation, and try serving your tiramisu in wine glasses for an elegant touch. Alternatively, you can stick to the traditional method and layer the mascarpone filling and ladyfingers in an 8×8 baking dish.
For a perfect meal, serve this dessert alongside any of the entrée recipes available on my blog.

Storage Tips

Tiramisu should be consumed within 2-3 days of making it. It is essential to eat it while it is fresh.
This dessert should always be stored in the refrigerator to prevent the mascarpone from spoiling.
Tightly seal the lid to prevent moisture loss and maintain the dessert’s texture.
Avoid freezing: I do not recommend freezing this dessert because it can alter the texture and taste. The mascarpone filling may become grainy, and the ladyfingers may become soggy when thawed.

FAQs about this Tiramisu recipe:

To minimize the risk of foodborne illness, it’s essential to avoid using raw eggs in your recipes. Instead, I highly recommend using pasteurized eggs. You can purchase pasteurized eggs from a store, although they may be hard to find. Alternatively, you can easily pasteurize eggs at home safely and straightforwardly. In my previous blog post, I provided step-by-step instructions on pasteurizing eggs using the Sous Vide method. This involves heating the eggs to 135F/57C to sterilize and eliminate all bacteria, ensuring your eggs are safe to eat. I have used this same method when making my Carbonara pasta, another recipe that also calls for raw eggs. I have answered several frequently asked questions in the post, making it easier for you to follow the process. If you want to learn how to pasteurize eggs at home and ensure the safety of your food, check out my Egg Pasteurization post.

Absolutely! You can omit the alcohol and still make a delicious Tiramisu. To replace the flavor of Amaretto, you can add a teaspoon of almond extract. However, even without the almond extract, the flavor of coffee alone can still make this dessert taste great.

Yes, you can make Tiramisu without caffeine. The traditional recipe calls for espresso to soak the ladyfingers, but you can substitute it with decaf coffee. Keep in mind that this substitution may affect the taste of the dessert.

This Tiramisu recipe will pair perfectly with my other Italian pasta recipes. You may like these:

Authentic And Classic Carbonara Pasta With No Cream

The Best Authentic Italian Cacio e pepe Pasta Recipe

Simple Spaghetti With Meat Sauce For A Busy Weeknight

Chicken breasts with creamy sun dried tomato sauce pasta in a black frying pan

Chicken With Sun-dried Tomato Pasta

As you reach the bottom of this post, I hope you’re inspired to try this simple and delicious recipe for yourself. Whether you’re looking to impress your dinner guests, indulge in a sweet treat, or enjoy the taste of Italy in the comfort of your own home, this mini Tiramisu will hit the spot. And with the bonus of being served in adorable and vintage-looking Weck jars, they’re Insta-ready and a feast for the eyes and the palate.

So what are you waiting for? Grab your apron, ingredients, and Moka pot, and prepare to whip up a taste of Italy today!

A jar of Tiramisu with a cup of freshly brewed Moka coffee with cream.

Did you make this recipe?

Thank you for reading my post on how to make easy mini Italian Tiramisu trifles in individual jars! I hope you’re inspired to try out this delicious recipe. Remember to follow my blog for more amazing recipes, and if you make this Tiramisu, be sure to tag me on social media so I can see your creations!