Go Back
Tiramisu

tiramisu

Tiramisu like you've never seen before: a lighter, healthier take on the classic Italian dessert for guilt-free indulgence.
Total Time 31 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 195

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoon instant coffee powder dissolved in 1 cup hot water
  • 1 cup skim milk ricotta cheese well-drained and blended
  • 0.5 cup light cream cheese softened
  • 0.75 cup plain Greek yogurt unsweetened
  • 3 tablespoon xylitol or erythritol or another sweetener of choice
  • 2 unit egg whites beaten until stiff peaks form
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 12 unit ladyfinger biscuits preferably whole grain or gluten-free
  • 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting

Method
 

  1. Prepare the coffee: Dissolve the instant coffee powder in 1 cup of hot water and let it cool.
  2. Prepare the creamy layer: In a bowl, blend the ricotta cheese, light cream cheese, Greek yogurt, sweetener, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
  3. Whip the egg whites: In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Carefully fold them into the creamy mixture to create a light and airy texture.
  4. Assemble the tiramisu: Quickly dip each ladyfinger biscuit into the cooled coffee—do not soak, just moisten.
  5. Arrange half of the coffee-dipped ladyfingers in a glass or ceramic dish to form the base, then spread half of the creamy mixture over them.
  6. Add the second layer of coffee-dipped ladyfingers and cover with the remaining cream mixture.
  7. Finish and chill: Dust the top with unsweetened cocoa powder. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight) so flavors meld and texture sets.

Notes

Tiramisu is a beloved classic Italian dessert renowned for its creamy layers and delicate coffee flavor, making it perfect for special occasions or any moment that calls for a delectable treat. This lightened-up version offers all the satisfaction of the original while keeping things a bit healthier and guilt-free.

Practical Tips for the Perfect Tiramisu

Quickly dip your ladyfingers: Avoid sogginess by briefly immersing the biscuits in coffee—just enough to absorb flavor without falling apart.
Choose your coffee wisely: For richer taste, use a strong espresso or add a tiny splash of coffee liqueur to the mix.
Upgrade your creamy layer: Ricotta and Greek yogurt create a silkier, protein-packed filling, but you may use low-fat mascarpone for a more authentic texture.
Sweetener flexibility: Xylitol or erythritol work well, but coconut sugar or honey can be substituted for different flavor profiles.

Preparation Insights

Fold in those egg whites gently to keep the mixture airy. Overmixing can deflate the cream and affect the dessert’s signature lightness.
Chill thoroughly: For best results, let your tiramisu rest overnight. This allows flavors to blend and structure to firm up beautifully.

Serving & Variations

Create individual portions in glasses or jars for an elegant twist, ideal for dinner party settings.
Serve alongside fresh berries, a handful of chopped dark chocolate, or with an espresso shot to highlight the dessert’s Italian roots.
Try twists like dusting with cinnamon for extra warmth or layering with sliced strawberries for added freshness.
This dessert’s sweetness, creaminess, and coffee aroma make it a timeless favorite. Experiment with ingredient swaps and serving suggestions to discover your own perfect tiramisu experience!