Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (240 ml) strong brewed coffee, cooled
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) coffee liqueur (such as Kahlua or Tia Maria), optional
  • 2 tablespoons (25 g) granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs, separated
  • ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup (60 g) all-purpose flour, sifted
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 8 ounces (225 g) mascarpone cheese, room temperature
  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream, cold
  • ¼ cup (50 g) powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Coffee Syrup: Combine coffee, liqueur (if using), and sugar in a small bowl. Stir until sugar is dissolved. Set aside.
  2. Bake the Sponge Cake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  3. Beat egg yolks and sugar until pale and thick. Beat in vanilla.
  4. In a separate bowl, beat egg whites with salt until stiff peaks form.
  5. Gently fold egg whites into yolk mixture.
  6. Gradually fold in sifted flour until just combined.
  7. Divide batter evenly between prepared baking sheets. Spread thinly.
  8. Bake until golden brown and springs back lightly when touched.
  9. Cool completely on baking sheets.
  10. Make the Mascarpone Cream Filling: In a large bowl, beat mascarpone cheese until smooth.
  11. In a separate chilled bowl, beat heavy cream until soft peaks form.
  12. Gently fold powdered sugar and vanilla extract into whipped cream.
  13. Fold whipped cream into mascarpone cheese until smooth and combined.
  14. Assemble the Sandwiches: Cut each sponge cake sheet in half to create even rectangles.
  15. Gently brush the bottom of one sponge cake rectangle with coffee syrup.
  16. Spread with a generous layer of mascarpone cream filling.
  17. Top with another sponge cake rectangle, brushing with coffee syrup on the underside.
  18. Repeat with remaining layers.
  19. Dust the top with cocoa powder.
  20. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
  21. Slice into individual sandwiches.