A delightful twist on the classic tiramisu, this layered cake combines rich coffee flavors with creamy mascarpone frosting.
Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare three 9-inch round cake pans by greasing and flouring them.
Ensure the pans are well-greased to prevent sticking.
Prepare the vanilla cake mix according to the package instructions.
Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter.
Divide the batter into three portions, adding the espresso coffee powder to one portion and mixing well.
Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the coffee flavor.
Pour the batter into the prepared pans and bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Rotate the pans halfway through baking for even cooking.
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooling on a wire rack prevents the cakes from becoming soggy.
Combine the brewed coffee and coffee liqueur in a measuring cup and set aside.
Use freshly brewed coffee for the best flavor.
In a bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and coffee liqueur until smooth. Refrigerate.
Chill the filling to make it easier to spread.
Whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and coffee liqueur until stiff peaks form.
Chill the bowl and beaters for better whipping results.
Fold a portion of the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture to lighten it.
Fold gently to maintain the airy texture.
Assemble the cake by layering the plain cake, coffee mixture, and filling, followed by the coffee-flavored cake and repeating the process.
Use a skewer to poke holes in the cake layers for better absorption of the coffee mixture.
Frost the cake with the remaining whipped cream and dust with cocoa powder.
Use a sieve for an even dusting of cocoa powder.
Garnish with chocolate curls made by running a vegetable peeler along the edge of a chocolate bar.
Chill the chocolate bar for easier curling.
Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Chilling helps the flavors meld together.