- Mascarpone cheese (16 oz / 450 g), cold
- Eggs (4 large), separated
- Granulated sugar (2/3 cup / 135 g)
- Heavy cream (1 cup / 240 ml)
- Ladyfingers (Savoiardi) (about 30–36)
- Freshly brewed espresso (1 1/2 cups / 360 ml), cooled
- Marsala wine or dark rum (3–4 tbsp), optional
- Pure vanilla extract (1 tsp)
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)
- Dark chocolate, finely grated (optional, for garnish)
- Pinch of fine salt
