Introduction: Have you ever tried to innovate and create something novel with a traditional white cake mix? The White Cake Mix Tiramisu is a delightful culinary project that combines the richness of mascarpone with the moisture of white cake to create a layered dessert that mimics the classic Italian dessert. Let's explore the process of transforming white cake mix into something that resembles a delectable tiramisu.

Ingredients

Ingredients for the Cake:

1 18.25 ounce package moist white cake mix 1 teaspoon instant coffee powder/ Dutch-process cocoa powder 1/4 cup coffee 1 tablespoon coffee flavored liqueur/brandy/congrac

Ingredients for the Filling:

1 8 ounce container mascarpone cheese 1/2 cup confectioners sugar 2 tablespoons coffee flavored liqueur/brandy/congrac

Ingredients for the Frosting:

2 cups heavy cream 1/4 cup confectioners sugar 2 tablespoons coffee flavored liqueur/brandy/congrac

Optional Additions:

Bittersweet chocolate for garnishing

Preparation Steps

Preparation of the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour 3 9-inch pans. Prepare the cake mix according to the package instructions. Divide two-thirds of the batter between two pans. Stir the instant coffee or cocoa powder into the remaining batter and pour it into the remaining pan. Bake the cakes for 20 to 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack and allow them to cool completely. In a measuring cup, combine brewed coffee and one tablespoon of coffee liqueur or other alcohol of your choice. Set this aside for later use.

Preparation of the Filling

In a small bowl, using an electric mixer on low speed, combine the mascarpone cheese, 1/2 cup of confectioners' sugar, and 2 tablespoons of coffee liqueur. Beat until the mixture is smooth. Cover this mixture with plastic wrap and refrigerate it.

Preparation of the Frosting

In a medium bowl, using an electric mixer on medium-high speed, beat the heavy cream, 1/4 cup of confectioners' sugar, and 2 tablespoons of coffee liqueur. Continue beating until the cream forms stiff peaks. Fold 1/2 cup of the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture carefully.

Assembly and Garnish

Assembly of the Cake

Take one cake layer and place it on a serving plate. Use a thin skewer to poke holes in the cake about 1 inch apart. Pour one-third of the reserved coffee mixture over the cake and spread it with half of the filling mixture. Lay the second coffee-flavored cake layer on top. Poke holes in the cake and pour another third of the coffee mixture over it, spreading it with the remaining filling. Add the final cake layer, poke holes in it, and pour the remaining coffee mixture over the top. Spread the sides and top of the cake with the frosting. Place cocoa in a sieve and dust the top of the cake lightly. Garnish with shaved bittersweet chocolate. Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Techniques for Garnishing

To make the chocolate curls, use a vegetable peeler and run it down the edge of the bittersweet chocolate bar to create decorative shavings for a festive touch.

Conclusion

The transformation of white cake mix into a Tiramisu-like dessert is a creative and delightful way to use these simple ingredients. This recipe not only highlights the versatility of white cake mix but also infuses it with the richness and flavor profile of a classic dessert. Perfect for special occasions or when you want to add a gourmet touch to your desserts, this Tiramisu-inspired cake is a culinary masterpiece waiting to be enjoyed.