tiramisu

Tiramisu is a beloved Italian dessert consisting of layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and a rich, creamy mixture of mascarpone cheese, eggs, and sugar, typically dusted with cocoa powder. The name literally translates to "pick me up," which perfectly captures the mental image of the espresso-fueled energy boost the dessert provides. It is a staple on the dessert menus of Italian restaurants worldwide. While often associated with fine dining or special occasions, it is also a popular homemade treat. It is almost always referred to as a "slice" of tiramisu or a "serving" of tiramisu.
In conversation
Ordering at a restaurant
Do you have any dessert recommendations?
Do you have any dessert recommendations?
Our homemade tiramisu is the house specialty.
Our homemade tiramisu is the house specialty.
That sounds perfect, I'll take one.
That sounds perfect, I'll take one.
Used here to describe a house specialty dessert.
Planning a dinner party
I'm thinking of making tiramisu for the party.
I'm thinking of making tiramisu for the party.
That sounds delicious! Do you need help with the ladyfingers?
That sounds delicious! Do you need help with the ladyfingers?
Used in the context of home cooking.
Examples
I ordered a slice of tiramisu for dessert.
I ordered a slice of tiramisu for dessert.
The secret to a good tiramisu is ensuring the coffee is strong enough to balance the sweetness of the mascarpone.
The secret to a good tiramisu is ensuring the coffee is strong enough to balance the sweetness of the mascarpone.
Although traditional recipes use raw egg yolks, modern adaptations often incorporate whipped cream to achieve a lighter texture in the tiramisu.
Although traditional recipes use raw egg yolks, modern adaptations often incorporate whipped cream to achieve a lighter texture in the tiramisu.