Tiramisu cake

Tiramisu cake is a delightful variation of the classic Italian dessert, combining the flavors of coffee, mascarpone, and cocoa in a layered cake form. Here’s a recipe to make a delicious tiramisu cake:

Ingredients:

For the Coffee Soak:

• 1 cup (240ml) strong brewed coffee, cooled
• ¼ cup (60ml) coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa) or Marsala wine (optional)

For the Cake:

• 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup (120ml) whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Mascarpone Cream:

• 8 oz (225g) mascarpone cheese, softened
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• ½ cup (50g) powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)

For Assembly:

• Cocoa powder, for dusting
• Shaved chocolate or chocolate curls (optional, for garnish)
• Fresh berries or mint leaves (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Coffee Soak:

1. Mix Coffee Soak: In a small bowl, combine the brewed coffee with the coffee liqueur or Marsala wine if using. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Cake:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.

5. Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.

6. Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

3. Prepare the Mascarpone Cream:

1. Beat the Cream: In a large bowl, beat the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.

2. Add Mascarpone: Gently fold in the mascarpone cheese until smooth and combined. If using, stir in the coffee liqueur.

4. Assemble the Cake:

1. Level the Cakes: If necessary, level the tops of the cooled cakes with a knife to ensure even layers.

2. Soak the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Brush or drizzle with a portion of the coffee soak.

3. Spread Mascarpone Cream: Spread a layer of mascarpone cream over the soaked cake layer.

4. Add Second Layer: Place the second cake layer on top and repeat the process with the remaining coffee soak and mascarpone cream.

5. Frost and Chill: Frost the sides and top of the cake with the remaining mascarpone cream. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the cake to set.

5. Garnish and Serve:

1. Dust with Cocoa Powder: Before serving, dust the top of the cake with cocoa powder.

2. Optional Garnishes: Garnish with shaved chocolate or chocolate curls, and fresh berries or mint leaves if desired.

Enjoy your tiramisu cake! It’s a perfect blend of coffee, creamy mascarpone, and chocolate, bringing the classic flavors of tiramisu to a cake format.