Today, I’ll show you step by step how to make homemade ladyfingers from scratch. If you’ve ever made tiramisu, trifle, or even enjoyed a simple coffee-dipped cookie, chances are you’ve come across ladyfingers (or savoiardi).
These delicate sponge-like cookies are light, airy, and just the right amount of sweet. While you can buy them pre-made, making them at home is surprisingly simple—and the taste is so much better!
Why Make Ladyfingers at Home?
- Fresher flavor – Homemade ladyfingers are tender and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
- Simple ingredients – You probably already have everything in your pantry.
- Versatile – Perfect for tiramisu, layered desserts, or just enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 3 large eggs, separated
- 6 tablespoons granulated sugar (divided)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
Prepare Your Baking Sheets
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. These are my favorite baking sheets in my kitchen at the moment.
- If desired, trace lines with a ruler and pencil on the back of the parchment for evenly sized ladyfingers (about 3 inches long).
Whip the Egg Yolks
- In a mixing bowl, beat the egg yolks with 3 tablespoons of sugar until pale and thick.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
Beat the Egg Whites
- In a separate clean bowl, whip the egg whites until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add the remaining 3 tablespoons of sugar and continue beating until glossy stiff peaks form.
Combine the Mixtures
- Gently fold the egg yolk mixture into the beaten egg whites.
- Sift the flour and cornstarch over the top and fold in carefully until just combined. Be careful not to deflate the batter—this is what keeps them light and airy!
Pipe the Ladyfingers
- Transfer the batter to a piping bag fitted with a round tip.
- Pipe 3-inch strips onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
- Dust generously with powdered sugar.
Bake
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until lightly golden and firm to the touch.
- Allow to cool completely on the baking sheet before using.
Tips for Success
- Don’t overmix the batter when folding—it should remain fluffy.
- Pipe evenly for uniform cookies (using traced guides helps!).
- Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 2 months.
Ways to Use Ladyfingers
- Classic Tiramisu – Layer with mascarpone cream and espresso.
- Fruit Trifle – Combine with custard, whipped cream, and fresh berries.
- Snack – Dip in coffee, hot chocolate, or tea.
Final Thoughts
Making homemade ladyfingers is easier than you might think, and the results are bakery-worthy. Whether you’re preparing a fancy dessert or just want a delicate treat to enjoy with your morning coffee, this recipe will be your new go-to.
Check Out These Other Easy Homemade Versions of Your Favorite Store-Bought Items
How to Make Homemade Ladyfingers
Light, airy, and perfect for tiramisu—learn how to make homemade ladyfingers with this easy step-by-step recipe.
Ingredients
- 3 large eggs, separated
- 6 tablespoons granulated sugar (divided)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheets
Preheat the oven to 350°F.
Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
If desired, trace lines with a ruler and pencil on the back of the parchment for evenly sized ladyfingers (about 3 inches long).
Step 2: Whip the Egg Yolks
In a mixing bowl, beat the egg yolks with 3 tablespoons of sugar until pale and thick.
Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 3: Beat the Egg Whites
In a separate clean bowl, whip the egg whites until soft peaks form.
Gradually add the remaining 3 tablespoons of sugar and continue beating until glossy stiff peaks form.
Step 4: Combine the Mixtures
Gently fold the egg yolk mixture into the beaten egg whites.
Sift the flour and cornstarch over the top and fold in carefully until just combined.
Be careful not to deflate the batter—this is what keeps them light and airy!
Step 5: Pipe the Ladyfingers
Transfer the batter to a piping bag fitted with a round tip.
Pipe 3-inch strips onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
Dust generously with powdered sugar.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until lightly golden and firm to the touch.
Allow to cool completely on the baking sheet before using.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
30Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 42Total Fat: 1gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 19mgSodium: 7mgCarbohydrates: 9gFiber: 0gSugar: 6gProtein: 1g