Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup espresso or strong coffee, cooled
- 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 24 ladyfinger biscuits
- Cocoa powder, for dusting
- Dark chocolate shavings, for garnish
If you need to substitute ingredients, you can use cream cheese instead of mascarpone and a non-dairy whipped topping for a lighter version. The coffee liqueur can be omitted or replaced with a coffee extract for a non-alcoholic version.
Instructions
- Brew a fresh cup of espresso or strong coffee and allow it to cool. Stir in the coffee liqueur if using. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until the mixture becomes smooth and forms soft peaks, about 3-5 minutes.
- Break the ladyfinger biscuits in half and dip each piece quickly into the coffee mixture, ensuring they are not overly soaked.
- Layer the bottom of each cup with coffee-dipped ladyfingers. Spoon a layer of the mascarpone mixture over the top.
- Repeat the layering process, finishing with a final layer of the mascarpone cream.
- Dust the top of each cup with cocoa powder and garnish with dark chocolate shavings for an added touch of elegance.
- Refrigerate the cups for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best flavor.
Remember, patience is key here. Letting the cups rest allows the flavors to meld perfectly, creating that irresistible tiramisu taste that Mama Lou would be proud of.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International