Mumbai: Tiramisu, the iconic Italian coffee dessert, is a beloved favourite worldwide and recently earned the title of the “Best Dessert in the World.” As we celebrate World Tiramisu Day on March 21, it’s the perfect time to explore how chefs and food enthusiasts are giving this classic dessert exciting and innovative twists. Originally created in Treviso, Italy, in 1960 by pastry chef Roberto Linguanotto, tiramisu was designed as a “pick-me-up” — its name literally translates to “lift me up.” The original version was a modern take on an old Venetian dessert, *sbatudin*, typically made with egg yolk, sugar, and tonic cream.
Traditionally, tiramisu consists of ladyfingers (savoiardi), egg yolks, sugar, mascarpone cheese, coffee, and cocoa powder, with many chefs adding variations like soaking the ladyfingers in alcohol such as Marsala wine or amaretto. This beloved dessert has inspired chefs worldwide to experiment and put their own spin on it. Here are some unique tiramisu varieties you can try:
Pistamisu
Pistachios are having a moment, and ‘Pistamisu’ is one of the most popular takes on this beloved dessert. Chef Shailendra Kekade from Sante Spa Cuisine explains that pistachio gianduja, blended with mascarpone, creates a smooth and nutty flavour. The savoiardi biscuits are soaked in espresso, and the dessert is garnished with chopped pistachios and pistachio cream for added depth. It’s a fresh and irresistible twist on the traditional.
Masala Chai Tiramisu
For those who love Indian spices, a ‘Masala Chai Tiramisu’ is the perfect fusion dessert. Inspired by the famous Indian tea, this version uses a blend of spices like ginger, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and black pepper. The ladyfingers are swapped with rusks, which are soaked in masala chai. A whipped cream and mascarpone mixture flavoured with saffron and spices completes the dessert, offering a bold, aromatic experience.
Strawberry Tiramisu
A lighter, fruit-forward version, ‘Strawberry Tiramisu’ is perfect for spring and summer. Chef Amit Sharma of Love & Cheesecake shares his take, where ladyfingers are soaked in strawberry-infused syrup and layered with creamy mascarpone mixed with fresh strawberry puree and vanilla extract. Fresh strawberries and a dusting of cocoa powder finish this refreshing twist, offering a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness.
Matcha Tiramisu
For a unique flavour profile and added health benefits, try ‘Matcha Tiramisu’. Matcha, a finely ground green tea powder, has become a global sensation due to its vibrant colour and super food properties. Karreena Bulchandani of MOKAI explains that ceremonial-grade matcha, imported from Japan, gives this version of tiramisu an authentic, earthy taste. The ladyfingers are soaked in matcha, layered with mascarpone, and finished with a dusting of matcha powder for an indulgent yet refined twist.
Lemon Tiramisu
As the weather warms up, a *Lemon Tiramisu* offers a light and refreshing variation. By adding lemon curd to the mascarpone and whipped cream mixture, this version takes on a citrusy zing that’s perfect for the upcoming summer months. The ladyfingers are dipped in a lemon-infused simple syrup made from lemon peels, juice, and sugar, and the dessert is topped with more lemon curd for extra tartness. It’s a refreshing alternative to the traditional coffee-based tiramisu, perfect for those craving something bright and summery.
Whether you prefer the classic tiramisu or enjoy experimenting with these inventive versions, World Tiramisu Day is the perfect occasion to savour the many ways this beloved Italian dessert can be enjoyed.
