Tiramisu

Here's a simplified tiramisu recipe without whipped cream, fruit, coffee, mascarpone, or cocoa. This version highlights the rich custard and the texture of graham crackers.

Ingredients:

For the Custard:

  • 2 cups non-dairy milk (or regular milk if preferred)
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • A pinch of salt

For the Tiramisu:

  • 1 pack graham crackers (about 9-10 whole crackers)
  • 1 cup milk (for dipping the graham crackers)

Instructions:

Step 1: Make the Custard

  1. Heat the Milk: In a medium saucepan, gently heat the non-dairy milk over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Do not let it boil.
  2. Whisk the Egg Yolks: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and a pinch of salt until smooth and pale.
  3. Temper the Egg Mixture: Slowly pour about half a cup of the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to avoid curdling the eggs.
  4. Combine and Cook: Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk. Cook over low heat, stirring continuously, until the custard thickens (about 10-15 minutes).
  5. Add Vanilla: Remove from heat, stir in the vanilla extract, and let it cool to room temperature.

Step 2: Assemble the Tiramisu

  1. Prepare the Milk for Dipping: Pour the milk into a shallow dish.
  2. Layer the Graham Crackers: Quickly dip each graham cracker into the milk to slightly soften them, then place a layer of dipped graham crackers on the bottom of a rectangular baking dish.
  3. Add Custard Layer: Spread half of the cooled custard over the graham crackers.
  4. Repeat Layers: Add another layer of dipped graham crackers, followed by the remaining custard.

Step 3: Chill and Serve

  1. Chill: Cover the tiramisu with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the graham crackers to absorb the custard and become soft and cake-like.
  2. Serve: Slice and serve chilled.

This minimalist tiramisu is all about the creamy custard and soft layers of graham crackers, creating a simple yet satisfying dessert. Enjoy!