Tiramisu- With Twinkies.
Also known as: Twinkiemisu. This is actually a really delicious recipe, considering I don't like Twinkies. You substitute them in for lady fingers. It sounds weird, but it actually tastes as good, if not better, than regular tiramisu.
You'll need:
- 2/3c strongly brewed espresso
- 1/4c brandy or godiva chocolate liqueur*
- 1/2c water
- 1/2c sugar
- 2 boxes Twinkies
- 1lb mascarpone cheese
- 1 1/3c heavy whipping cream
- cocoa powder
Start off by brewing your espresso. If you have a machine, use that, if not it's okay to use the instant kind (which is what I did, I'm not a coffee fan normally). Boil the water and sugar on medium high heat until all the sugar is dissolved. Let cool and combine with the espresso and brandy (if you're using it, I didn't).
Whip the heavy whipping cream until soft peaks form. Fold in the mascarpone cheese. I'd suggest having the cheese sit out while you do your prep work so it's easier to fold in.
Cut Twinkies in half and line them along an 8x8 or 9x9 inch pan. Please ignore the pans that I used, I grabbed what was available and easy to put on the floorboards of my car.
Cover the Twinkies with half of the espresso/sugar syrup.
Layer half the whipping cream/mascarpone mixture on top.
Repeat the process: Twinkies, syrup, mascarpone.
Finally, dust the top with cocoa powder. Be careful not to overdo it, because cocoa powder is slightly bitter.
If serving immediately, it's okay to store it in the fridge until that time. If not, keep frozen.