What is "tiramisu"?

Tiramisu is a type of Italian dessert made from a mixture of mascarpone cheese, ladyfingers, and espresso. It is usually served in a bowl or cup and can be customized with different flavors and toppings. To make tiramisu, ladyfinger biscuits are arranged in the bottom of a baking dish. Strong espresso or coffee that has been sweetened with sugar is poured over the biscuits so they can soak up the liquid. Next, a creamy filling made with softened mascarpone cheese, whipped egg yolks and whipped egg whites is spread over the top. More ladyfingers and espresso are layered, followed by another filling layer. As the tiramisu sits, the liquid is absorbed and the flavors meld together. The mascarpone filling lightens and fluffs up, and the strong coffee perfumes the dessert. Finally, the tiramisu is sprinkled with cocoa powder and stored in the refrigerator to set before serving.