Tiramisu Layer Cake Recipe:

Cocoa powder, for dusting
Chocolate curls or shaved chocolate, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.

While the cakes are baking, prepare the coffee soaking syrup. In a small bowl, stir together the cooled brewed coffee, coffee liqueur (if using), and granulated sugar until the sugar is dissolved. Set aside.

Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then carefully remove them from the pans and transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Once the cakes are completely cool, use a long serrated knife to level the tops if necessary.

While the cakes are cooling, prepare the mascarpone filling. In a large mixing bowl, beat the chilled heavy cream until stiff peaks form.