A dessert that delivers maximum flavour with minimal effort, all packed into a container that’s ready to travel. It’s the perfect sweet treat kissed with a touch of luxury, even in the heart of the wilderness.
Course Dessert
Cuisine Italian
Keyword 30 minute meals, no-bake cake
Prep Time 20 minutesminutes
Total Time 4 hourshours20 minutesminutes
Servings 6people
Calories 420kcal
Equipment
1 round glass container (about 8–9 inches wide and 3–4 inches deep) with a tight-fitting lid
Ingredients
Cream Layer
1cupheavy cream
250gmascarpone cheese (room temperature)
⅓cupgranulated sugar
1tspvanilla extract
For the Coffee Dip
1cupstrong brewed espresso or coffee (cooled)
2-3tbspsugaroptional, to sweeten the coffee
2-3tbspcoffee liqueur (e.g., Kahlua, rum, Marsala wine, or amaretto)optional
Assembly
200-250gladyfinger biscuits (savoiardi)
Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)
Instructions
Whip the cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
In another bowl, mix mascarpone, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Gently fold in the whipped cream until light and fluffy. Chill briefly.
Mix the cooled espresso with sugar and optional liqueur in a shallow bowl. Stir to dissolve. Taste and adjust sweetness.
Assembly
Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture (1–2 seconds per side).
Place dipped ladyfingers side by side at the base of your round glass container, trimming or breaking as needed to fit the circular shape.
Spread half the mascarpone cream evenly over the first layer of ladyfingers using a spoon or spatula.
Repeat with a second layer of dipped ladyfingers.
Finish with the remaining cream, smoothing the top.
Chill, Cover, and Dust
Place the lid securely on the container and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight for best results). The dessert will set beautifully and be easy to transport.
Before serving, open the lid and dust generously with cocoa powder. Add chocolate shavings if desired. Scoop to serve, or bring the whole container to a picnic—no mess, just flavour.