Pistachio Ladyfingers Treat (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the soak mixture for the ladyfingers

01 - 1 packet (7 ounces) ladyfingers, often in the cookie section
02 - 1/4 tsp almond extract
03 - 1 cup brewed strong coffee
04 - 1 tablespoon optional rum

→ For the creamy pistachio layer

05 - 4 eggs, large, yolks and whites separate
06 - 2/3 cup white sugar, split between mixtures
07 - 16 oz mascarpone cheese, chilled
08 - 1/3 cup pistachio paste
09 - 1/3 cup tiny chopped pistachios
10 - 1 tsp vanilla extract
11 - 1/2 tsp almond extract

# Instructions:

01 - Brew your coffee and let it cool in a shallow dish. Stir in the almond extract and add the rum if you'd like. Set aside.
02 - Separate egg whites into a mixing bowl and the yolks in another. Using the whisk attachment on your mixer, whip the whites while slowly adding 1/3 cup sugar. Beat for about 3 minutes until thick and stiff. Spoon the beaten whites into a clean bowl so you can reuse the mixer.
03 - Beat the egg yolks with the other 1/3 cup of sugar in the mixer at high speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add in the mascarpone and blend until smooth. Next, mix in the vanilla extract, almond extract, and pistachio paste until the mixture is creamy.
04 - Take half the yolk mixture and gently fold it into the whipped egg whites with a spatula. Repeat with the remaining yolk mixture until everything is combined, being careful not to lose the light, airy texture.
05 - Quickly dip the ladyfingers in coffee, making sure they're coated but not soaked. Layer them tightly on the bottom of a 9-inch square pan. Spread half the creamy mixture on top, then make another layer of coffee-dipped ladyfingers. Finish with the rest of the cream mixture.
06 - Scatter the chopped pistachios over the top. Cover and chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours, or leave overnight for the best taste. Take it out, slice, and enjoy!

# Notes:

01 - Adding pistachio paste and nuts gives a nutty twist to this Italian classic.
02 - Only dunk the ladyfingers quickly in coffee to keep them from getting soggy.
03 - For deeper flavor, let the dessert chill in the fridge overnight.