Classic Tiramisu

Ingredients

• Strong brewed coffee (1 cup, cooled)
• Rum (1/4 cup)
• Ladyfingers (24 pieces)
• Mascarpone cheese (1 cup)
• Granulated sugar (1/2 cup)
• Egg yolks (4 large)
• Heavy cream (1 cup)
• Cocoa powder (2 tablespoons, for dusting)
• Dark chocolate (1 ounce, grated (for garnish))

Instructions

1. In a shallow dish, combine the cooled brewed coffee and rum.
2. Briefly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture, ensuring both sides are soaked but not soggy.
3. Arrange half of the soaked ladyfingers in a single layer at the bottom of a rectangular dish (approximately 9x13 inches).
4. In a mixing bowl, beat the egg yolks and granulated sugar together until thick and pale yellow, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the mascarpone cheese to the egg yolk mixture and beat until smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
6. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
7. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until well combined, being careful not to deflate the whipped cream.
8. Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the layer of ladyfingers in the dish, smoothing it out evenly.
9. Repeat the layering process with the remaining soaked ladyfingers followed by the remaining mascarpone mixture.
10. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
11. Before serving, dust the top of the tiramisu with cocoa powder and sprinkle with grated dark chocolate for an elegant finish.
12. Slice into squares and serve chilled, allowing your guests to savor each rich layer.