Tiramisu Layer Cake with Coffee-Soaked Ladyfingers

Cake Layers Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper, and set aside.

Cake Layers In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until well combined. Stir in the brewed coffee until the batter is smooth and combined.

Cake Layers Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula and tap the pans on the counter to release any air bubbles. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Mascarpone Filling In a large bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, whip the chilled heavy cream and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully combined, creating a light and airy filling. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Coffee-Soaked Ladyfingers In a shallow dish, combine the freshly brewed coffee and coffee liqueur (if using). Dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture, ensuring it is soaked but not soggy. Layer the soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create the first cake layer.

Assembly Spread half of the mascarpone filling over the layer of ladyfingers, smoothing it out with a spatula. Repeat the process with another layer of soaked ladyfingers and the remaining mascarpone filling. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.

Decoration and Serving Just before serving, carefully remove the cake from the springform pan and transfer it to a serving platter. Dust the top with unsweetened cocoa powder and sprinkle with dark chocolate shavings. Garnish with chocolate-covered espresso beans, fresh mint leaves, gold leaf, and edible flowers as desired. Slice and serve this elegant tiramisu layer cake with a flourish!