Tiramisu

For some people this is their ultimate dessert, so this is a recipe for dinner party times and suits any time of the year - it also requires preparation in advance which is perfect for a dinner party to avoid spending the whole night in the kitchen. Is Italian in origin and means "pick me up" - most likely from the shots of coffee, but was also enjoyed casually for just that reason. I find men adore this dish particularly, and feel free to change the alcohol to suit your own tastes - you can vary between whisky, rum, Frangelico etc - a mixture of all even!

Pictured: Tiramisu

3 good shots of coffee
3 – 4 tbsp Amaretto
3 eggs, separated
50g castor sugar
250g tub mascarpone
1 packet savoiardi biscuits

Make the coffee shots to allow time to cool, add the amaretto.  Place in a bowl wide enough to dip the biscuits easily.

Cream the yolks and sugar til thick and pale, quickly blend in the mascarpone.
Whip the whites til stiff and fold into mascarpone mix.

Grab your choice of serving dishes – this will fit either 4 large tumblers or one large oval dish – or 2 medium sized dishes etc.

Dip half the biscuits into the coffee mix and layer on the bottom of serving dishes. Spread a layer of mascarpone over the biscuits to cover well. Repeat. If you run out of coffee mixture just make a little more up.

Cover in plastic wrap and let sit in the refrigerator a few hours at least or overnight.

To serve, sprinkle a generous layer of cocoa on top.

Serves 4 -6