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What are ladyfingers?

Ladyfingers, also known as savoiardi in Italian, are delightful little sponge cakes that have a light and airy texture. They are shaped like a large, slender finger, hence their name! These sweet treats are incredibly versatile and are famously used as an essential ingredient in desserts like tiramisu and charlottes. They have a delicate sweetness which makes them perfect for dipping in coffee or layering with cream. Whether you're crafting a sophisticated dessert or just snacking, ladyfingers add a touch of elegance and sweetness to any occasion.

The origin of ladyfingers and their brief history

The origin of ladyfingers dates back to the late 15th century in the Duchy of Savoy, which is present-day regions of France and Italy. They were originally created to mark the visit of the King of France. Their light, airy texture and delicate sweetness were designed to impress. The royal courts were so taken by these biscuits that they quickly became a symbol of refinement and culinary excellence.

These biscuits were initially called "Savoiardi" and were among the earliest types of sponge cake. The name "ladyfingers" often conjures images of something dainty and elegant, which perfectly describes their elongated, finger-like shape. Despite their royal beginnings, ladyfingers have quite a humble composition: a sponge cake batter made from whipped eggs, sugar, and flour, piped into long, thin shapes and dusted with sugar before baking.

Through the centuries, ladyfingers spread across Europe and beyond. They became particularly popular in England during the Victorian era for their use in creating elaborate desserts like trifles and charlottes. They are perfect for these applications due to their ability to absorb liqueurs and coffee while maintaining their structure.

In modern times, ladyfingers are beloved worldwide, not only for their role in creating other desserts but also for their simplicity and elegance as a solo treat. Whether enjoyed with afternoon tea or used as a building block for a more complex dessert, ladyfingers hold a special place in the hearts of dessert lovers everywhere.

How are ladyfingers made and what are they made of?

Ladyfingers are primarily made from just a few key ingredients: eggs, sugar, flour, and sometimes a little baking powder for extra lift.

Here’s how they’re typically made:

Separate the eggs: The yolks are separated from the whites of the eggs. This is important because each part plays a crucial role in the texture of the ladyfingers.

Whisk the yolks with sugar: The egg yolks are beaten together with about half of the sugar until the mixture is thick and pale. This adds richness and color.

Beat the egg whites: In another bowl, the egg whites are whipped until they form soft peaks. Gradually, the rest of the sugar is added to the egg whites as you continue to beat them until they form stiff, glossy peaks. This is essential for getting that lovely, light texture.

Fold in the flour: The flour is sifted and gently folded into the egg yolk mixture, usually in two batches. This needs to be done delicately to keep as much air in the batter as possible.

Combine with egg whites: Finally, the egg whites are folded into the main batter. Again, this step requires a gentle hand to ensure the batter remains airy and fluffy.

Pipe and bake: The batter is then piped onto a baking sheet in long, thin shapes (like fingers, hence the name!). They're baked at a relatively low temperature just until they're lightly golden and still soft.

Once baked and cooled, ladyfingers have a slight crispness on the outside with a soft, sponge-like interior.

The Best Ladyfingers - The Delallo Difference

At DeLallo, we understand that the best desserts start with the best ingredients. Our ladyfingers are crafted with precision and care, following traditional recipes that pay homage to their rich heritage. Each ladyfinger is light, airy, and delicately sweet, providing the perfect sponge for soaking up coffee, liqueurs, or any flavor you fancy. They hold their shape beautifully, ensuring that your culinary creations not only taste fantastic but look stunning too. We use only the finest ingredients, from premium flour to fresh eggs, ensuring that every bite is as satisfying as it is authentic. Plus, our careful baking process guarantees that each ladyfinger has just the right texture—crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

Ways to use ladyfingers and recipes

Traditional Tiramisu: This classic Italian dessert is perhaps the most famous use for ladyfingers. Dip them in coffee, layer with a whipped mixture of mascarpone cheese and eggs, and finish with a sprinkle of cocoa powder. It’s a heavenly treat that never fails to impress! 

Simple Trifle: Layer ladyfingers with fruit, pudding, and whipped cream to create a delightful trifle. The ladyfingers soak up the juices and flavors, making every spoonful perfectly moist and tasty. 

Charlotte Cake: Use ladyfingers as the lining for this elegant, mousse-filled dessert. They make a beautiful and tasty boundary that holds up well with the creamy filling. 

Pie Crust: Dip the ladyfingers in water mixed with a choice of flavors then arrange them on the bottom of a pie pan and top with fillings. We like this Salted Caramel Chocolate Tiramisu Pie. 

Parfait Layers: Alternate layers of crushed ladyfingers with yogurt and fresh berries for a refreshing parfait. This light dessert is perfect for a sweet end to any meal or a lovely treat on a warm day. 

Chocolate-Dipped Delights: Melt your favorite chocolate and dip ladyfingers into it, then let them cool. You’ll end up with a crunchy, chocolaty snack that’s perfect for pairing with your afternoon coffee or tea. 

Affogato: Affogato is a unique Italian coffee dessert made with just two ingredients: hot espresso and vanilla gelato or ice cream. Ladyfingers are perfect cookies to dip into this delicious dessert. 

Lemon Tiramisu: Soak ladyfingers in lemon syrup instead of espresso mixture, layer with a mix of lemon curd and whipped cream, and chill. It's refreshingly tart and creamy, a perfect dessert for lemon lovers. 

Fruit and Nut Bars: Mix chopped ladyfingers with nuts, dried fruits, and a bit of honey or syrup, then press into a pan and chill. Slice into bars for a quick and energy-packed snack. 

Pudding Poke Cake: Arrange ladyfingers in a dish and poke holes in them, then pour over your favorite pudding. Refrigerate until set for a moist and flavorful cake that’s super easy to make.

Ladyfingers: FAQ

What do ladyfingers taste like?

No, Marry Me Chicken is not keto-friendly.

Are ladyfingers used in tiramisu?

Yes, ladyfingers are used in tiramisu and play a crucial role in the dessert’s structure. They're dipped in coffee, then layered with a rich and creamy mixture typically made from mascarpone cheese, eggs, and sugar. The ladyfingers absorb the coffee and contribute to the classic, beloved flavor of tiramisu. It's a delightful treat that combines the perfect balance of coffee-soaked sponge and creamy sweetness.

Are ladyfingers soft or crunchy?

Ladyfingers typically have a light, airy texture that's a bit crispy on the outside when they're fresh. However, they're quite soft on the inside, which makes them perfect for soaking up coffee in desserts like tiramisu. Once they absorb moisture from the dessert, they become delightfully soft and spongy.

How should I store ladyfingers?

• Keep Them Dry: Moisture is the enemy here, as it can make ladyfingers soggy. Always store them in a cool, dry place.
• Original Packaging: If you haven’t opened the package yet, just keep them in their original packaging. The manufacturers design these packages to keep the ladyfingers dry and fresh.
• Airtight Container: Once you’ve opened the package, any unused ladyfingers should be stored in an airtight container. This will keep them from absorbing moisture and odors from other foods.
• Freezing: If you don’t plan to use your ladyfingers for a while, you can freeze them. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then put them in a zip-lock freezer bag. When you’re ready to use them, let them thaw at room temperature for a few hours before you need them.

Are ladyfingers gluten free?

Ladyfingers, traditionally, are not gluten-free as they are usually made with wheat flour. However, the good news is that there are gluten-free versions available which use alternative flours like rice flour or almond flour. If you're keen on baking, you can also find many recipes online to make your own gluten-free ladyfingers. Just be sure to check the labels if you're buying them from a store or ask about the ingredients if they're offered at a bakery or café.

What is the difference between ladyfingers and biscotti?

• Ladyfingers are light, airy, and delicate cookies that have a spongy texture. They are sweet, but not overwhelmingly so, and they’re famously used as the base for layered desserts like tiramisu. Because of their sponge-like ability to soak up liquids, they are perfect for recipes where they need to absorb coffee or a sweet syrup without falling apart.

• Biscotti, on the other hand, are quite the crunchy treat! Originating from the Italian word "biscotto" meaning "twice-cooked," these cookies are baked once in a slab, then sliced and baked again to achieve their signature dry and crunchy texture. They come in various flavors, often containing nuts or dried fruits, and are traditionally dunked in a drink like coffee or Vin Santo, an Italian dessert wine.

Where can I buy DeLallo ladyfingers?

• You can buy DeLallo Ladyfingers online or at some major grocery stores.