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Decadent Espresso Martini Tiramisu Cake

espresso martini tiramisu cake - featured image

A luscious tiramisu cake inspired by the espresso martini cocktail, featuring espresso-soaked ladyfingers layered with a creamy mascarpone and whipped cream filling, finished with cocoa powder and optional chocolate shavings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 24 ladyfingers (choose crisp, not too soft)
  • 1 cup (240 ml) freshly brewed espresso, strong and cooled
  • 2 tablespoons vodka
  • 2 tablespoons Kahlúa or coffee liqueur (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 16 ounces (450 grams) mascarpone cheese, full-fat
  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream, cold
  • 3/4 cup (90 grams) powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
  • Dark chocolate shavings or curls (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Espresso Martini Soak: In a shallow dish, combine the cooled espresso, vodka, coffee liqueur, and granulated sugar. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves.
  2. Whip the Cream: Using an electric mixer, whip the cold heavy cream until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip.
  3. Mix Mascarpone Cream: In a separate bowl, whisk the mascarpone with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold in the whipped cream using a spatula.
  4. Dip the Ladyfingers: Briefly dunk each ladyfinger into the espresso martini soak for 1-2 seconds per side. Lay them evenly in the bottom of the prepared pan to form the first layer.
  5. Layer the Cream: Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers, smoothing the surface.
  6. Repeat Layers: Add another layer of soaked ladyfingers, then top with the remaining mascarpone cream. Smooth the top carefully.
  7. Chill: Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
  8. Finish with Garnish: Before serving, dust the top generously with cocoa powder through a fine sieve and sprinkle with dark chocolate shavings if desired.

Notes

Do not over-soak ladyfingers to avoid mushiness. Use cold ingredients for mascarpone cream for better whipping. Gently fold whipped cream into mascarpone to keep mixture airy. Chill at least 4 hours or overnight for best texture and flavor melding. Non-alcoholic version can be made by replacing vodka and coffee liqueur with extra espresso or coffee syrup. Gluten-free version possible with gluten-free sponge or biscuits.

Nutrition

Keywords: espresso martini, tiramisu cake, mascarpone, coffee dessert, easy tiramisu, boozy dessert, layered cake, homemade dessert