Irish Cream Tiramisu Recipe

This Irish Cream Tiramisu recipe is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert. The creamy mascarpone and rich espresso are elevated by the addition of Baileys Irish Cream, making this dessert a perfect treat for a special occasion or just a cozy night in.

Irish Cream Tiramisu Recipe

This recipe calls for Savoiardi cookies or ladyfingers, which are a key component in creating the traditional layers of tiramisu. Not all supermarkets carry them; you might need to check an Italian grocery store or a gourmet food store. Another important ingredient is mascarpone cheese, a soft, creamy cheese with a rich, buttery flavor that's essential in tiramisu.

Ingredients for Irish Cream Tiramisu

Espresso or very strong black coffee: This is used to soak the ladyfingers, giving them a rich, deep flavor.

Baileys Irish Cream: This adds a unique, creamy sweetness to the dessert.

Savoiardi cookies or ladyfingers: These are soaked in the coffee and Irish Cream mixture to form the layers of the tiramisu.

Eggs: Used in the mascarpone mixture to give it a creamy, custard-like texture.

Superfine sugar: This dissolves easily, making the mascarpone mixture smooth and sweet.

Mascarpone cheese: A key ingredient in tiramisu, this gives the dessert its creamy texture.

Natural unsweetened cocoa powder: This is dusted over the top of the tiramisu as a final touch, adding a hint of chocolate flavor.

One reader, Herrick Compton says:

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This Irish cream tiramisu recipe is a game-changer! The combination of Baileys and espresso creates a rich, indulgent flavor that's simply irresistible. The creamy mascarpone filling is perfectly balanced, and the dusting of cocoa on top adds a delightful touch. It's a must-try for any dessert lover!

Herrick Compton

Key Techniques for Crafting the Perfect Tiramisu

How to prepare the espresso/baileys mixture: Mix the cooled espresso with ¾ cup of the Baileys in a shallow bowl and set it aside.

How to whisk the egg yolks and sugar: Whisk the egg yolks and sugar together until the mixture is thick, pale yellow, and forms a ribbon when the whisk is lifted out of the bowl, about a minute.

How to fold the egg white into the mascarpone mixture: Vigorously whisk the single egg white until soft peaks form when you lift the whisk out of the bowl. Then, fold the egg white into the mascarpone mixture until well combined.

How to assemble the tiramisu: Dip the cookies, one at a time, into the espresso/Baileys mixture, let them soak just long enough to become damp but not soggy. Line the bottom of a 9-inch square glass dish (or 7x11-in rectangular dish) with a layer of soaked cookies, then spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the top. Repeat with another layer of soaked cookies, then top with the remaining mascarpone mixture.

How to dust the cocoa powder: Place the cocoa powder in a small sieve and dust it over the top of the tiramisu before serving.

How To Make Irish Cream Tiramisu

This tiramisu recipe is spiked with Bailey’s Irish cream for some added kick that complements the black coffee so well. Prep a serving in just 20 minutes!

Preparation: 20 minutes
Cooking:
Chill Time: 8 hours
Total: 8 hours 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

  • cupsespresso,or very strong black coffee, cooled
  • 1cupBaileys Irish Cream,divided
  • 14ozsavoiardi cookies,or ladyfingers
  • 2large eggs
  • cupsuperfine sugar
  • 1lbmascarpone cheese
  • tspnatural unsweetened cocoa powder

Instructions

  1. Mix the cooled espresso with ¾ cup of the Baileys in a shallow bowl. Set aside.

  2. Separate the eggs, but keep only one of the whites. In a medium bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar together until the mixture is thick, pale yellow, and forms a ribbon when the whisk is lifted out of the bowl.

  3. Add the remaining ¼ cup Baileys and mascarpone and whisk until the mixture is smooth.

  4. In a separate bowl, vigorously whisk the single egg white until soft peaks form when the whisk is lifted out of the bowl.

  5. Fold the egg white into the mascarpone mixture. It will seem thin but don’t worry: it will set up in the fridge.

  6. Dip the cookies, one at a time, into the espresso/Baileys mixture, then let them soak just long enough to become damp but not soggy.

  7. Line the bottom of a 9-inch square glass dish or 7×11-inch rectangular dish with a layer of soaked cookies, then spread half of the mascarpone mixture over top. Repeat with another layer of soaked cookies, then top with the remaining mascarpone mixture.

  8. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and leave in the fridge for 8 to 10 hours or overnight, until the mascarpone mixture is set.

  9. When ready to serve, place the cocoa powder in a small sieve and dust over the top of the tiramisu.

  10. Serve and enjoy!

Nutrition

  • Calories: 373.08kcal
  • Fat: 24.40g
  • Saturated Fat: 12.83g
  • Trans Fat: 0.00g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 7.54g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.49g
  • Carbohydrates: 33.76g
  • Fiber: 0.14g
  • Sugar: 10.67g
  • Protein: 5.71g
  • Cholesterol: 91.55mg
  • Sodium: 286.32mg
  • Calcium: 58.07mg
  • Potassium: 159.87mg
  • Iron: 1.30mg
  • Vitamin A: 194.16µg
  • Vitamin C: 0.43mg

Expert Tip for Achieving the Ideal Texture in Irish Cream Tiramisu

When preparing the tiramisu, it's crucial to not over-soak the savoiardi cookies or ladyfingers in the espresso and Baileys Irish Cream mixture. They should be just damp enough to absorb the flavors, but not so soggy that they lose their texture and structure. This will ensure that your tiramisu has the perfect balance of creaminess and crunch.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Irish Cream Tiramisu

Prepare the ingredients: Gather all the necessary ingredients and equipment before starting to make the tiramisu. This will help you work more efficiently and avoid any last-minute trips to the store.

Use an electric mixer: When whisking the egg yolks and sugar, use an electric mixer to speed up the process and achieve the desired thick, pale yellow consistency more quickly.

Chill the mascarpone mixture: After assembling the tiramisu, place it in the freezer for about 30 minutes to help the mascarpone mixture set faster, reducing the overall chilling time required in the refrigerator.

Pre-cut the ladyfingers: Consider pre-cutting the ladyfingers to fit the size of your dish before soaking them in the espresso and Baileys mixture. This can save time during the assembly process.

Organize your workspace: Keep your kitchen organized and clean as you work through the recipe to minimize time spent searching for tools and ingredients.

Substitute Ingredients For Irish Cream Tiramisu Recipe

  • Baileys Irish Cream - Substitute with homemade Irish cream: You can make your own Irish cream using a combination of Irish whiskey, sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, and a touch of vanilla extract. This homemade version will provide a similar flavor profile to the original Baileys Irish Cream.

  • Savoiardi cookies or ladyfingers - Substitute with pound cake slices: Pound cake slices can be used as a substitute for ladyfingers in tiramisu. They provide a slightly denser texture and absorb the coffee and Irish cream mixture well, creating a delicious alternative to the traditional ladyfingers.

  • Mascarpone cheese - Substitute with cream cheese: Cream cheese can be used as a substitute for mascarpone cheese in tiramisu. While the flavor profile may be slightly different, the creamy texture and richness of cream cheese can still provide a delicious result in the dessert.

Elegant Presentation Ideas for Irish Cream Tiramisu

  1. Elevate the tiramisu: Carefully layer the soaked cookies and mascarpone mixture in a clear glass dish to showcase the beautiful layers of the tiramisu.

  2. Garnish with cocoa powder: Use a fine sieve to dust the top of the tiramisu with cocoa powder, creating an elegant and refined finish.

  3. Incorporate artistic swirls: Use a small offset spatula to create decorative swirls in the mascarpone mixture, adding a touch of sophistication to the presentation.

  4. Add a touch of gold leaf: For a luxurious touch, consider delicately placing edible gold leaf on top of the tiramisu, adding a hint of opulence to the dessert.

  5. Serve in individual glassware: Portion the tiramisu into individual glass cups or martini glasses for a modern and stylish presentation that showcases the layers of the dessert.

  6. Garnish with fresh berries: Arrange a few fresh raspberries or strawberries on top of the tiramisu to add a pop of color and a refreshing element to the presentation.

  7. Create a cocoa powder design: Use a stencil to create a decorative design on top of the tiramisu with cocoa powder, adding an artistic and visually appealing element to the dessert.

  8. Use a decorative serving platter: Present the tiramisu on a beautiful, ornate serving platter to enhance the overall visual appeal and elevate the dessert's presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Tiramisu

  • Espresso machine: An espresso machine is used to brew strong black coffee or espresso for the Irish cream tiramisu recipe.

  • Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for whisking the egg yolks, sugar, Baileys, and mascarpone together to create the creamy filling for the tiramisu.

  • Whisk: A whisk is used to combine the egg yolks, sugar, Baileys, and mascarpone until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

  • Shallow bowl: A shallow bowl is used to mix the cooled espresso with Baileys for soaking the savoiardi cookies or ladyfingers.

  • Sieve: A sieve is used to dust the cocoa powder over the top of the tiramisu before serving.

  • 9-inch square glass dish or 7x11-in rectangular dish: A glass dish is used to assemble and refrigerate the tiramisu.

Fascinating Trivia About the Origins of Tiramisu

The Irish cream tiramisu recipe is a delightful fusion of Italian and Irish flavors, combining the traditional tiramisu with the rich and creamy taste of Baileys Irish Cream. This dessert is a perfect treat for special occasions or gatherings, adding a unique twist to the classic Italian dish. The use of Baileys Irish Cream not only enhances the flavor but also adds a touch of indulgence to the dessert. It's a great way to enjoy the creamy, coffee-infused dessert with a hint of Irish flair.

Is Making Irish Cream Tiramisu at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this Irish Cream Tiramisu recipe largely depends on the quality of ingredients used. While Baileys Irish Cream and mascarpone cheese can be pricier, the recipe yields a generous portion for a household of 4. The indulgent flavors and luxurious texture make it a standout dessert, earning a solid 9/10 rating. The approximate cost for a household of 4 is around $25-$30, making it a reasonable treat for special occasions.

Is Irish Cream Tiramisu a Healthy Dessert Choice?

The Irish Cream Tiramisu recipe, while indulgent and delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:

  • High in fat and calories: The recipe contains mascarpone cheese, which is high in saturated fat and calories. Additionally, the Baileys Irish Cream contributes to the overall calorie count.
  • Refined sugar: The recipe calls for superfine sugar, which is a refined carbohydrate that can contribute to blood sugar spikes and crashes.
  • Alcohol content: While moderate alcohol consumption may have some health benefits, the Baileys Irish Cream in this recipe adds extra calories and sugar.
  • Raw eggs: The recipe uses raw eggs, which can pose a risk of salmonella if not handled properly or if the eggs are not fresh and clean.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

  • Reduce the amount of mascarpone cheese and replace some of it with low-fat ricotta or Greek yogurt to lower the saturated fat and calorie content
  • Use a natural, low-calorie sweetener like stevia or monk fruit instead of superfine sugar to reduce the refined carbohydrate content
  • Decrease the amount of Baileys Irish Cream or replace it with a lower-calorie, lower-sugar alternative like unsweetened almond milk flavored with a small amount of Irish Cream extract
  • Use pasteurized eggs or an egg substitute to eliminate the risk of salmonella from raw eggs
  • Incorporate more fresh fruit, such as sliced strawberries or raspberries, between the layers or as a topping to increase the nutrient content and add natural sweetness

Editor's Take: My Honest Opinion on This Irish Cream Tiramisu Recipe

This Irish cream tiramisu recipe is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert. The combination of espresso, Baileys Irish cream, and mascarpone creates a rich and indulgent flavor profile. The instructions are clear and easy to follow, making it accessible for home cooks. The use of raw eggs may concern some, but as long as proper precautions are taken, the end result is a luscious, creamy dessert that is sure to impress. The addition of cocoa powder adds a beautiful finishing touch. Overall, this recipe offers a delightful fusion of Irish and Italian flavors, perfect for special occasions or a decadent treat.

Why trust this Irish Cream Tiramisu Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful twist on the classic tiramisu, incorporating the rich and creamy flavor of Baileys Irish Cream for a unique and indulgent experience. The combination of espresso and Baileys creates a luscious coffee-infused base, while the use of mascarpone cheese ensures a velvety and luxurious texture. The careful instructions and use of Savoiardi cookies guarantee an authentic and satisfying result. Trust in the quality of the ingredients and the meticulous preparation to deliver a decadent and unforgettable dessert experience.

Want to share your experience making this Irish Cream Tiramisu Recipe or discuss variations and tips? Join the conversation in the Recipe Sharing forum section!
FAQ:
Can I use a substitute for Baileys Irish Cream in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute Baileys Irish Cream with other Irish cream liqueurs or even non-alcoholic Irish cream flavored coffee creamer for a non-alcoholic version.
Can I make this tiramisu in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, tiramisu tastes even better when made in advance as it allows the flavors to meld together. It's best to make it the day before you plan to serve it.
Can I use something other than ladyfingers for this recipe?
If you can't find ladyfingers, you can use sponge cake, pound cake, or even graham crackers as a substitute. However, the traditional ladyfingers provide the best texture for tiramisu.
Is it safe to consume raw eggs in this recipe?
The use of raw eggs is common in tiramisu recipes. However, it's important to use fresh, properly refrigerated, clean, grade A or AA eggs with intact shells to minimize the risk of foodborne illness.
Can I freeze tiramisu?
Tiramisu can be frozen, but it's best to freeze it without the cocoa powder topping. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving, and then dust it with cocoa powder just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

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