Chef John's Tiramisu

Recipe View 5 mins Combine the cooled espresso and 2 tablespoons of Marsala wine in a shallow dish. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld. (5 minutes)

Recipe View 6 mins In a heatproof bowl set over a simmering pot of water (double boiler), whisk together the egg yolks, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar, and the remaining 1 tablespoon of Marsala wine. Whisk continuously until the mixture becomes thick, pale yellow, and forms a creamy ribbon when the whisk is lifted, about 5-6 minutes.

Recipe View 2 mins Remove the bowl from the heat. Add the mascarpone cheese, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until the mixture is completely smooth and there are no lumps. (2 minutes)

Recipe View 4 mins In a clean, dry glass or metal bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. This indicates that the egg whites have trapped enough air and are stable. (3-5 minutes)

Recipe View 3 mins Gently fold half of the beaten egg whites into the mascarpone mixture to lighten it. Then, gently fold in the remaining egg whites, being careful not to deflate the mixture. (3 minutes)

Recipe View 5 mins To assemble, place a heaping spoonful of the mascarpone mixture into the bottom of a single-serving glass or cup. Briefly dip 2 ladyfinger halves into the espresso mixture, turning to coat evenly. Place the soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of the glass, on top of the mascarpone. (5 minutes)

Recipe View 10 mins Fill the glass halfway with the remaining mascarpone mixture. Dip additional ladyfinger halves into the espresso mixture and arrange them vertically around the inside of the glass. Top with a layer of dipped ladyfinger halves horizontally. Fill the glass to the top with the remaining mascarpone mixture. Repeat with the second glass. (10 minutes)

Recipe View 8 hrs Cover both glasses tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the tiramisu to set. (8 hours)

Recipe View 2 mins Before serving, remove the plastic wrap and generously dust the tops of the tiramisu with cocoa powder. Garnish with finely grated dark chocolate. (2 minutes)