Ingredients:
- 1 cup (240ml) strong brewed coffee, cooled
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) coffee liqueur (e.g., Kahlúa), optional
- 1 tablespoon (15g) granulated sugar
- 1 (7 ounce/200g) package ladyfingers (savoiardi biscuits)
- 1 ½ cups (360ml) heavy cream, chilled
- 8 ounces (225g) mascarpone cheese, room temperature
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon (5ml) vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon (1.25ml) salt
- 2 tablespoons (10g) unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
- Chocolate shavings, optional
- Espresso beans, optional
Instructions:
- Prepare the Coffee Soak: Combine cooled coffee, coffee liqueur (if using), and sugar in a shallow dish. Stir until sugar is dissolved.
- Soak the Ladyfingers: Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture, turning to lightly coat both sides. Do not over-soak!
- Make the Mocha Mascarpone Cream: In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
- In a separate bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese, sugar, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and creamy.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
- Assemble the Trifle: Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of the trifle bowl.
- Spread half of the mocha mascarpone cream evenly over the ladyfingers.
- Repeat layers with remaining ladyfingers and cream.
- Chill and Garnish: Cover the trifle and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
- Dust and Serve: Before serving, dust the top of the trifle generously with cocoa powder. Garnish with chocolate shavings and espresso beans, if desired. Enjoy this Mocha Tiramisu Trifle!