Decadent Italian Tiramisu Pancakes with Whipped Mascarpone Cream

Ingredients

• 2 cups flour, sifted
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cups milk
• 2 tablespoons instant espresso powder
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 cup butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 8 ounces mascarpone cheese, softened
• 1 cup heavy cream, chilled
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Method

1. 01
   In a large bowl, whisk together the sifted flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. 02
   In another bowl, dissolve the instant espresso powder in the milk, then add the eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract, whisking to combine.
3. 03
   Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are okay.
4. 04
   Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Lightly grease with butter or oil, then pour 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, about 2-3 minutes, then flip and cook the other side until golden brown.
5. 05
   For the whipped mascarpone cream, beat the mascarpone cheese in a bowl until smooth. In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone along with the vanilla extract.
6. 06
   Serve the pancakes stacked, generously dolloped with the whipped mascarpone cream, and a dusting of cocoa powder or shaved chocolate if desired.