For the Soak:
1 cup brewed espresso, cooled
2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)
1 tablespoon sugar (adjust to taste)
For Garnish:
Cocoa powder
Dark chocolate shavings (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Finally, add the cooled espresso and stir until the batter is smooth.
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Mascarpone Filling: In a large bowl, whisk the mascarpone cheese until smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture, followed by the vanilla extract and coffee liqueur (if using).
Prepare the Soak: In a small bowl, combine the brewed espresso, coffee liqueur (if using), and sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
Assemble the Cake: Once the cakes have completely cooled, use a serrated knife to slice each cake in half horizontally, creating four layers. Place one layer of cake on a serving platter. Using a pastry brush, generously soak the cake layer with the espresso mixture. Spread a layer of the mascarpone filling over the soaked cake.
Repeat this process for the remaining layers, soaking each cake layer with the espresso mixture and topping it with mascarpone filling. Finish with a final layer of cake.
Chill the Cake: Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the cake to set.
Garnish and Serve: Before serving, dust the top of the cake with cocoa powder. If desired, garnish with dark chocolate shavings for an added touch of indulgence.
Tips for Perfection:
For an even richer flavor, try adding a layer of chocolate ganache between the mascarpone filling and cake layers.
If you’re short on time, you can also use store-bought ladyfingers instead of baking the cake from scratch.
For an extra creamy texture, you can fold in some whipped mascarpone cheese into the whipped cream.
This Tiramisu Cake is an unforgettable dessert that brings together the best of tiramisu and cake. With its coffee-flavored layers, rich mascarpone filling, and decadent finish, it’s bound to become a new favorite at your table. Enjoy the sweet, indulgent experience with every bite!
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