Easy Chocolate Tiramisu

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups strong brewed coffee
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder, divided
• 5 tablespoons coffee liquor such as Kahlua, optional, divided
• 28 ladyfinger cookies
• 2 cups mascarpone, slightly softened
• 3 ounces bittersweet chocolate, melted
• 6 tablespoons confectioners sugar, divided
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract, divided
• 2 cups heavy cream, very cold
• Cocoa powder for dusting

Directions

1. In a liquid measuring cup, combine the coffee, granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon cocoa, and 4 tablespoons (1/4 cup) coffee liquor, stirring until blended. Arrange 14 ladyfinger cookies in one even layer across the bottom of the pan. Use a pastry brush or a spoon to coat them with 1/2 of the coffee mixture.
2. In a large bowl, carefully whisk together the mascarpone, melted chocolate, 3 tablespoons confectioners sugar, the remaining 1 tablespoon coffee liquor, if using, and 1 teaspoon vanilla. Stop as soon as the mixture comes together. Spoon it over the soaked ladyfingers and smooth the surface.
3. Set the remaining 14 ladyfingers over the mascarpone mixture in a single layer. Spoon or brush the rest of the coffee mixture over them.
4. With a stand mixer or handheld mixer, beat the cream with the remaining 3 tablespoons confectioners sugar, the remaining tablespoon cocoa, and the remaining 2 teaspoons vanilla until medium peaks form. Spread the whipped cream over the soaked ladyfingers and smooth the top.
5. Refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours, until the ladyfingers have softened all the way through. Finish with a dusting of cocoa, then cut into squares and serve.