Description
Earl Grey Tiramisu is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert, infused with the fragrant and citrusy notes of Earl Grey tea. This no-bake dessert layers soft ladyfinger cookies dipped in a fragrant Earl Grey infusion with a creamy mascarpone custard, creating a luscious treat perfect for tea lovers. It’s elegant, creamy, and effortlessly impressive for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Tea Mixture
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 4 Earl Grey tea bags
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Custard
- 6 large egg yolks
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
Assembly
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 16 ounces mascarpone cheese, softened
- 24 ladyfinger cookies (savoiardi)
- Cocoa powder for dusting
- Lemon zest for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Earl Grey Tea Mixture: In a saucepan, bring the water to a boil, then remove from heat and steep the Earl Grey tea bags for 10 minutes. Remove the tea bags and stir in 1/4 cup granulated sugar, honey, and vanilla extract until fully dissolved. Allow the tea mixture to cool completely before using.
- Make the Egg Yolk Custard: Place a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler) and whisk together the egg yolks and 3/4 cup granulated sugar continuously until the mixture thickens and turns pale, about 7–8 minutes. Remove the bowl from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
- Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. This will add lightness to the mascarpone mixture.
- Combine Mascarpone Mixture: In a large bowl, smooth the mascarpone cheese and carefully fold in the cooled egg yolk custard, followed by the whipped cream. Mix gently until fully combined and creamy.
- Assemble the Tiramisu: Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the cooled Earl Grey tea mixture—do not soak them, just a quick dip to avoid sogginess. Layer half of the dipped ladyfingers in a 9×9-inch dish. Spread half of the mascarpone cream evenly over the ladyfingers. Repeat the process with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and top with the remaining mascarpone cream. Smooth the top layer.
- Chill and Serve: Cover and refrigerate the tiramisu for at least 6 hours or preferably overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set. Before serving, dust the top generously with cocoa powder and garnish with lemon zest if desired for a fresh top note.
Notes
- Steep Earl Grey tea bags longer or use loose leaf tea for a stronger tea flavor.
- For extra depth, infuse mascarpone cheese with a small amount of Earl Grey concentrate before mixing.
- Avoid over-soaking ladyfingers to maintain distinct layers and prevent sogginess.
- Use fresh eggs and high-quality mascarpone for the best flavor and texture.
- This dessert is best served chilled and is great for make-ahead occasions.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
