Lady fingers soaked in Kahlua, espresso and vanilla, shavings of dark chocolate and billowing layers of sweetened mascarpone cheese, this is decedent comfort food.  I've only recently come to know the delights of Tiramisu and I believe there are some guidelines to be followed for its complete enjoyment.  The most important being that it must be left to chill, preferably overnight to allow the flavors to fully development, then about 20 minutes ahead of when you plan to serve it, take it out of the fridge and allow it soften a little.  You want that delectable melt in your mouth creamy texture. I was surprised that my children LOVED this dessert as the ingredients on their own would not appeal to them, combined into this treat however, they are irresistible.

Tiramisu

1 egg
6 egg yolks
2 egg whites
1 cup of sugar plus 2 tablespoons sugar
3 packets of ladyfinger biscuits
3, 8 oz tubs mascarpone cheese
2 oz best quality dark chocolate
Cocoa powder (I used Hershey's)
Confectioner's sugar
1/3 cup Kahlua
1 1/4 cups espresso 
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Place the egg, egg yolks and sugar in a heat proof bowl over a pan of simmering water.  Whisk until the mixture is pale and thick and has doubled in size, about 8-10 minutes.  

Remove mixture from the bowl, place in a bowl of an electric mixer, beat until cool.  

Add the mascarpone and blend until very smooth - a minute or so.

In another bowl whisk the egg whites with the remaining 2 tablespoons sugar until they form medium peaks.

Fold the egg whites into the mascarpone mixture.

In a shallow dish combine the Kahlua, espresso and vanilla.  Moisten the ladyfingers, one by one and place into the bottom of a serving dish, top with a layer of the mascarpone mixture, dust with cocoa powder, confectioner's sugar and a grating of chocolate.  Repeat with more layers of ladyfingers and mascarpone filling, ending with the filling. Liberally dust the top with more cocoa, confectioner's sugar and grated chocolate.

Place in the fridge to chill for at least 4 hours or overnight if possible.  Remember to allow to come to room temperature before serving.

Intense concentration to fully appreciate the flavors.  The perfect snack after an early morning swim meet.