Easy Tiramisu

No need to head out to an expensive Italian restaurant to enjoy the tastes of a classic tiramisu. Our Test Kitchen has come up with an easy version that satisfies your cravings without a lot of work or expense.

Serves: 8

Preparation Time: 5 min

Chilling Time: 8 hr

Ingredients

• 1 (16-ounce) package mascarpone cheese (see note)
• 1 1/4 cups whipping cream
• 1/4 cup confectioners' sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup brewed espresso
• 2 tablespoons dark rum
• 2 (3-ounce) packages ladyfingers
• 4 (1-ounce) bittersweet chocolate squares, grated

Instructions

1. In a bowl using an electric mixer on high speed beat first 4 ingredients 30 seconds, or just until blended.
    
2. In a small bowl, stir together espresso and rum .
    
3. Arrange 1 package ladyfingers in bottom of a 3-quart bowl or trifle dish; brush with half espresso mixture. Layer half mascarpone cheese mixture over ladyfingers; sprinkle with half grated chocolate. Repeat layers. Cover and chill 8 hours.
    

Notes

Mascarpone is a soft, fresh triple-cream dessert cheese with a fluffy texture. It's often sold in plastic tubs, if you can't find it, substitute 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened; 1/3 cup sour cream; and 1/4 cup whipping cream, beaten until blended, for 16 ounces of mascarpone cheese.