Easy Tiramisu (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

01 - 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream.
02 - 8 ounce container mascarpone cheese, room temperature.
03 - 1/3 cup granulated sugar.
04 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
05 - 1 1/2 cups cold espresso.
06 - 3 tablespoons coffee flavored liqueur, optional (Kahlua or DaVinci brands).
07 - 1 package Lady Fingers, Savoiardi brand.
08 - Cocoa powder for dusting the top.

# Instructions:

01 - Add the heavy whipping cream to a mixing bowl and beat it on medium speed using electric mixers or a stand mixer. Slowly incorporate the sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until you achieve stiff peaks.
02 - Gently fold the room temperature mascarpone cheese into the cream mixture until well combined. Set this luscious mixture aside.
03 - Pour the cold espresso and optional coffee liqueur into a shallow bowl. Quickly dip the ladyfingers in this coffee mixture, ensuring they are wet but not soaked.
04 - Arrange the dipped ladyfingers in a single layer at the bottom of an 8x8-inch or similar sized dish.
05 - Spread half of the mascarpone mixture smoothly over the ladyfingers.
06 - Add another layer of the coffee-dipped ladyfingers on top followed by the remaining mascarpone cream.
07 - Dust the top generously with cocoa powder using a fine mesh strainer to achieve a beautiful finish. Refrigerate the tiramisu for at least 3 to 4 hours, or overnight, to meld the flavors before serving.

# Notes:

01 - You can prepare tiramisu with or without alcohol. Coffee flavored liqueur enhances the coffee's richness, but alternatives such as Marsala wine or brandy work beautifully too.
02 - For optimal flavor, consider making tiramisu a day ahead. The dessert keeps well in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 days, allowing the flavors to blend wonderfully.
03 - To freeze, prepare the tiramisu completely but skip the cocoa powder dusting. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and dust with cocoa before serving.