Hi Bold Bakers!
Being a Bold Baker is about having a large tool box of skills, and simple recipes up your sleeve, giving you the confidence to bake anywhere, anytime. While we might all be tempted at times to try complete and extravagant recipes, all you really need to make the best desserts are the basics.
Knowing how to make Homemade Ladyfingers is a key building block for everything from my
10-Minute Berry Tiramisu and my favorite
10-minute Tiramisu. While you might think this Italian staple can only be bought at the store, they are so easy to make at home and of course the result is incomparable.
How To Whip Egg Whites
The process of making ladyfingers is that of adding air into eggs. The eggs in this recipe are separated, then both the yolks and the whites of the eggs are whipped up with sugar. So, the secret ingredient in a homemade ladyfinger is air!
By giving the egg whites a good whip with a stand mixer on high, you will reach “stiff peaks” or a sturdy meringue-like base. As for the egg yolks, you want to do the same, but this can be done by hand, creating pale yellow and fluffy egg yolks. Homemade ladyfingers depend on this step to create a super light and spongy lady finger. This sponge like interior with crisp exterior is what makes lady fingers so unique.
Should Ladyfingers Be Soft Or Crunchy?
You might be wondering what the right texture is for a ladyfinger. Well, the truth is, when they’re freshly baked they are actually quite soft and sponge-like in the center and a little crisp on the outside. Being so delicate, though, they firm up in a really short time if left out in the air. It’s when they are slightly stale that they are actually great for soaking up all kinds of flavors and being added to trifles or tiramisu.
Other Than Tiramisu, What Are Ladyfingers Good For?
Lady fingers really are most commonly used for tiramisu, but they also work well in any trifle recipe instead of cake or Swiss roll. And don’t forget, they can simply be the perfect accompaniment to a cup of coffee in the afternoon.
Can Ladyfingers Be Frozen?
Lady fingers can be frozen. I suggest you wrap them up and either vacuum seal them or store them in an airtight container. To use from frozen, just defrost at room temperature for 30 minutes. From there just use these ladyfingers as normal.
How to Make Ladyfingers
My recipe for Homemade Ladyfinger cookies may seem complex but can be broken down into three simple parts:
- The first part consists of beating egg yolks and sugar into a light and fluffy consistency, a feature that adds richness to your cookies.
- The second part of making Homemade Ladyfingers is to beat your egg whites and sugar into stiff and shiny peaks that will be folded into your yolk mixture from Part 1. Beating your egg whites with sugar will add tons of body and texture to your mixture and give it a light, cake-like texture.
- Finally, sift your flour and salt into your mixture and gently fold so that your batter can be transformed into a shapely and structured cookie.
Desserts that Use Ladyfingers
I always have ladyfingers on hand! I love to use the leftovers for dishes like my 10 Minute Tiramisu and 10 Minute Berry Tiramisu, and highly encourage you to do the same! Knowing how to make lady fingers is such an important part of any bakers repertoire. I can’t wait for you Bold Bakers to master this versatile cookie!
Can Ladyfingers Be Egg Free?
I’m glad you asked! Of course they can — but it isn’t as easy as substituting the eggs for something else. It’s a whole different recipe. Get the recipe for Egg-Free Ladyfingers.
Use my ladyfingers in these desserts:
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