Ingredients
1. Ladyfingers (Savoiardi)
These sponge-like cookies absorb the espresso mixture perfectly without becoming mushy. Look for high-quality ladyfingers for the best results.
2. Espresso or Strong Coffee
Freshly brewed espresso adds a deep, robust flavor that balances the sweetness of the dessert. For an adult twist, consider adding coffee liqueur or chocolate liqueur to the espresso.
3. Mascarpone Cheese
A staple in any tiramisu recipe, mascarpone gives the dish its creamy, luxurious texture. Always use fresh, high-quality mascarpone for the best results.
4. Salted Caramel
The salted caramel adds a layer of complexity to the dish, enhancing both the sweetness and the slight bitterness from the chocolate and coffee. You can use store-bought salted caramel or make your own for a more personal touch.
5. Dark Chocolate
Choose a good-quality dark chocolate for grating or shavings. This adds a beautiful contrast to the sweetness of the caramel.
6. Whipping Cream and Sugar
Whipping cream adds fluffiness to the mascarpone layer, while sugar helps to sweeten the mixture to taste.
7. Cocoa Powder
A light dusting of cocoa powder gives the finished dessert a sophisticated touch and a hint of bitterness.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Espresso Mixture
- Brew about 1½ cups of espresso or strong coffee. Let it cool to room temperature.
- For an adult kick, add 2-3 tablespoons of coffee liqueur or chocolate liqueur to the espresso.
2. Make the Salted Caramel Sauce
- In a saucepan, melt 1 cup of granulated sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until it turns a deep amber color.
- Add 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter and stir until fully melted.
- Carefully pour in ½ cup of heavy cream and stir until combined. Add 1 teaspoon of sea salt to achieve that perfect balance.
- Let the caramel cool to room temperature before use.
3. Prepare the Mascarpone Layer
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1½ cups of heavy whipping cream with ½ cup of granulated sugar until soft peaks form.
- In a separate bowl, mix 1 pound of mascarpone cheese until smooth.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully combined.
4. Assemble the Layers
- Dip each ladyfinger into the espresso mixture for a few seconds, ensuring they are soaked but not overly saturated.
- Arrange the soaked ladyfingers in a single layer at the bottom of your serving dish.
- Spread a generous layer of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers.
- Drizzle a thin layer of salted caramel over the mascarpone cream.
- Sprinkle a handful of dark chocolate shavings over the caramel.
5. Repeat the Layers
- Add another layer of espresso-soaked ladyfingers.
- Top with the mascarpone mixture, drizzle with salted caramel, and sprinkle more dark chocolate shavings.
- Finish the top with a final dusting of cocoa powder and additional chocolate shavings if desired.
6. Chill Before Serving
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4-6 hours, or overnight for the best flavor. The longer it chills, the better the flavors meld together
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (no-bake)