Ultimate Tiramisu Cheesecake (Printable Version)

# What You'll Need:

→ Base

01 - 8 to 10 ladyfingers (savoiardi)
02 - 80 g unsalted butter, melted
03 - 2 tablespoons coffee-flavored liqueur (optional)

→ Filling

04 - 32 oz (907 g) cream cheese, softened
05 - 450 g mascarpone cheese (40% fat), room temperature
06 - 1 1/4 cups (250 g) granulated sugar
07 - 2 large eggs
08 - 1 large egg yolk
09 - 2/3 cup full-fat sour cream
10 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
11 - 4 teaspoons instant espresso powder
12 - 150 ml cooled strong coffee or espresso

→ Topping and Decoration

13 - 140 g dark chocolate (54–70% cocoa), shaved or grated
14 - Cocoa powder for dusting
15 - Chocolate-covered espresso beans (optional)

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - Crush ladyfingers into fine crumbs, mix with melted butter and liqueur, then press into a 9-inch springform pan. Chill for 15 minutes.
02 - Beat softened cream cheese and mascarpone until smooth. Gradually add sugar, eggs, sour cream, vanilla, and espresso powder. Mix until silky.
03 - Dip extra ladyfingers in cooled coffee for 1-2 seconds per side. Place over crust, then pour half the filling over. Repeat layers if desired.
04 - Bake at 160°C (320°F) for 40-45 minutes. Turn oven off and let cool inside with door ajar for 30 minutes. Refrigerate for 6 hours or overnight.
05 - Dust top with cocoa powder, sprinkle with chocolate shavings, and garnish with espresso beans. Slice cold; serve at room temperature.

# Helpful Notes:

01 - Ensure all dairy ingredients are at room temperature before mixing for the smoothest texture.
02 - Avoid overmixing the batter to prevent air bubbles and cracks during baking.
03 - Let each layer rest briefly before adding the next for defined structure.