Ingredients:
For the Pudding:
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1 (3.4 oz) box of vanilla instant pudding mix
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2 cups cold milk
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Tiramisu Layers:
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1 cup strong brewed coffee or espresso (cooled to room temperature)
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1 tablespoon coffee liqueur (optional, but recommended for added depth of flavor)
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1 package of ladyfingers (about 24 cookies)
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1 cup heavy whipping cream (chilled)
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1/4 cup powdered sugar
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8 oz mascarpone cheese (softened)
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pudding Layer:
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In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix, cold milk, and vanilla extract.
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Continue whisking for 2 minutes until the pudding thickens. Set aside and let it firm up in the fridge for at least 5 minutes.
2. Make the Whipped Cream:
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In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form (about 3-4 minutes).
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Be careful not to overwhip the cream.
3. Mascarpone Mixture:
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In a separate bowl, gently fold the mascarpone cheese and vanilla extract into the whipped cream. This will create a smooth and creamy filling for your pudding cups.
4. Assemble the Layers:
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In a shallow dish, combine the cooled coffee (and coffee liqueur, if using).
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Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture, ensuring they are soaked but not soggy.
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Break the soaked ladyfingers to fit the bottom of your serving cups (about 2-3 ladyfingers per cup, depending on size).
5. Build the Pudding Cups:
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Start by spooning a layer of the vanilla pudding into each cup, spreading it out evenly.
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Add a layer of soaked ladyfingers on top of the pudding.
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Spoon a generous layer of the mascarpone whipped cream mixture on top of the ladyfingers.
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Repeat the layers until the cups are filled, ending with the mascarpone whipped cream layer.
6. Chill and Finish:
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Cover the cups with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to firm up.
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Before serving, dust the tops with unsweetened cocoa powder for that classic tiramisu finish.
Tips:
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You can use chocolate shavings or grated dark chocolate as an optional topping for extra indulgence.
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If you want a more intense coffee flavor, add a little bit of instant espresso powder to the pudding mix or whipped cream.
Serving Suggestions:
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Serve in individual cups or small glasses for a fancy presentation.
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Garnish with chocolate curls or cocoa powder just before serving.
