Authentic Italian coffee-flavored dessert with mascarpone
Beat egg yolks and sugar in a double boiler until thick and pale. Remove from heat and beat in mascarpone until smooth.
In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream with vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Fold into mascarpone mixture.
Mix coffee with coffee liqueur if using. Set aside to cool completely.
Quickly dip ladyfingers in coffee mixture and arrange in a single layer in a 9x13 inch dish. Spread half of mascarpone mixture over ladyfingers. Repeat layers.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. Dust with cocoa powder before serving.