Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 2 cups ladyfinger crumbs
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake:
– 24 oz (680g) cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup mascarpone cheese
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3 large eggs
– 1/4 cup brewed espresso, cooled
– 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur
For the topping:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
– Cocoa powder for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325ยฐF (163ยฐC). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. For the crust: In a bowl, combine ladyfinger crumbs and melted butter. Press mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.
3. For the cheesecake: In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and mix well. Beat in mascarpone cheese and vanilla extract. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in brewed espresso and coffee liqueur until fully incorporated.
4. Pour the cheesecake batter into the cooled crust, spreading evenly.
5. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly browned. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly open for 1 hour.
6. Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight before removing from the pan.
7. For the topping: In a bowl, whip heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Spread over the chilled cheesecake.
8. Dust the top with cocoa powder before serving.
Prep Time: 30 minutes | Baking Time: 60-70 minutes | Total Time: Approximately 5 hours | Servings: 12 slices