Tiramisu Cake – Gluten-Free Style

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine 1.5 cups of Frankie's Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour with 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. In a separate bowl, cream together 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in 3 large eggs one at a time, then stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1/2 cup of milk. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Ensure the batter is smooth and well-incorporated.

Step 2: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the cake batter evenly between two greased and floured 8-inch round cake pans lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, carefully remove the parchment paper.

Step 3: Prepare Coffee Syrup and Mascarpone Cream

While the cakes cool, prepare the coffee syrup by mixing 1 cup of strong brewed coffee or espresso with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar until the sugar dissolves. For the mascarpone cream, in a large bowl, whip 1 cup of heavy cream until soft peaks form. In another bowl, gently whisk 16 oz of mascarpone cheese with 1/2 cup of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth. Fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully combined.

Step 4: Slice Cake Layers

Carefully slice each cooled cake horizontally in half, creating a total of four cake layers.

Step 5: Assemble the Tiramisu Cake

Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Brush the top generously with the prepared coffee syrup until well-moistened. Spread a layer of mascarpone cream evenly over the coffee-soaked cake. Repeat this process with the next two cake layers, brushing with coffee syrup and spreading cream. Place the final cake layer on top.

Step 6: Decorate and Finish

Transfer the remaining mascarpone cream into a piping bag fitted with a star tip. Pipe decorative stars or rosettes over the entire top surface of the cake. Finish by dusting the top of the cake with 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder using a fine-mesh sieve. Chill the cake for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the cake to set.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

Once chilled, slice the Tiramisu cake into individual portions and serve. Enjoy your homemade gluten-free Tiramisu cake!

• Ensure all ingredients for the cake batter are at room temperature for best results.

• Chill the mascarpone cream thoroughly before piping to ensure it holds its shape.

• For a stronger coffee flavor, use freshly brewed espresso or very strong coffee.

• Add a splash of coffee liqueur (like Kahlua or rum) to the coffee syrup for an authentic Tiramisu flavor.

• Instead of piping stars, spread the top layer of cream smoothly and dust with cocoa powder for a classic look.

• Incorporate chocolate shavings or finely chopped nuts between the layers for added texture.