Tiramisù is a velvety mélange of savoiardi cookies dipped in an espresso, layered with delicately sweetened whipped eggs and mascarpone cheese, and topped with a dusting of cocoa powder. Its name, tirami sù, means “pick me up,” perhaps a reference to the stimulating effects of the caffeine in the recipe’s espresso and chocolate. 

Tiramisù, although of relatively recent origin, is one of Italy’s most iconic confections and invariably comes up at the top of internet searches for the most popular Italian desserts.  The word has made its way into at least 23 languages, and the dish is served in restaurants around the world.