Description
This Matzo Tiramisu is a delightful Passover-friendly twist on the classic Italian dessert, replacing ladyfingers with crisp matzo layers soaked in espresso and layered with a creamy mixture of egg yolks, cream cheese, and whipped cream. The dessert is topped with a luscious dark chocolate ganache, making it a rich, elegant treat perfect for holiday celebrations or any special occasion.
Ingredients
Cream Layer
- 6 large egg yolks
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla bean scrapings (or 1/2 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract)
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 8 ounces cream cheese (at room temperature)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream (whipped to stiff peaks)
Matzo Layer
- 1 cup hot espresso (hot enough to dissolve the sugar)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 6 sheets matzo
Chocolate Topping
- 3.5 ounces good-quality kosher for Passover dark chocolate
- 6 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
Instructions
- Make the Cream Layer: Add the egg yolks, sugar, vanilla bean scrapings, and salt to the bowl of a double boiler and whisk until the mixture is thick, fluffy, and doubled in volume, about 8 to 10 minutes. Then, place the bowl in an ice bath for 15 minutes to cool, stirring occasionally to prevent skin from forming.
- Combine with Cream Cheese: Transfer the cooled egg yolk mixture to a large bowl and beat in the cream cheese using a handheld electric mixer until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Fold in Whipped Cream: Beat in one-quarter of the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture to lighten it, then gently fold in the remaining whipped cream in three additions using a rubber spatula, ensuring a light and fluffy consistency.
- Chill Cream Mixture: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap directly on the surface of the cream mixture to prevent a skin from forming, and refrigerate for 15 minutes to set slightly.
- Prepare Espresso Soak: Whisk together the hot espresso and 2 tablespoons granulated sugar in a large shallow dish and allow to cool to room temperature; this will be used to soak the matzo.
- Assemble the Layers: Using a baking pan approximately 8 by 8 inches, soak each sheet of matzo in the espresso mixture for about 15 seconds per side, allowing them to absorb but not become soggy. Layer the soaked matzo on the bottom of the pan, breaking sheets to fit if needed.
- Add Cream Layer: Spread one-third of the cream mixture evenly over the matzo layer. Repeat the process by adding another layer of espresso-soaked matzo followed by another third of the cream mixture. Repeat once more to complete three layers of each, ending with the cream mixture.
- Prepare Chocolate Topping: Melt together the dark chocolate and heavy cream in a double boiler or microwave, stirring frequently until smooth and glossy.
- Top the Tiramisu: While the ganache is still warm and spreadable, dollop it over the top layer of cream and gently spread to cover the surface evenly.
- Chill the Dessert: Cover the assembled tiramisu tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, preferably overnight, to allow flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use good-quality espresso or strong brewed coffee to enhance the flavor.
- For best results, ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to avoid lumps in the cream layer.
- Whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks for a stable and airy cream mixture.
- When soaking the matzo, do not let it get too soggy as it will become mushy in the tiramisu.
- This dessert is kosher for Passover when all ingredients comply with dietary restrictions.
- Refrigeration time is crucial for firm texture and flavor development.
- Chocolate ganache can be reheated gently if it thickens before spreading.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Jewish