01 -
Brew a cup of strong coffee and pour it into a wide, shallow bowl. Add the almond extract and rum if you're using it. Give it a good stir and set it aside for later.
02 -
Separate your eggs, putting the whites in your stand mixer bowl with the whisk attachment and saving the yolks in another bowl. Beat those whites while slowly drizzling in 1/3 cup of sugar until they form stiff peaks (about 3 minutes). Scrape this fluffy mixture into a large bowl, getting as much out as possible.
03 -
Using the same mixer bowl, beat the egg yolks with the remaining 1/3 cup sugar for about 3 minutes until they're fluffy and pale yellow. Mix in the cold mascarpone until combined, then add the pistachio paste and both extracts, mixing until smooth and creamy.
04 -
Gently fold half of the yolk mixture into the beaten egg whites using a rubber spatula. Once incorporated, add the remaining half and fold just until combined - be careful not to overmix or you'll lose all that wonderful fluffiness!
05 -
Quickly dip each lady finger into the coffee mixture (just a second on each side or they'll fall apart!) and arrange them in a single layer in a 9×9-inch pan. Spread about half of your pistachio cream mixture over the lady fingers.
06 -
Create another layer of coffee-dipped lady fingers, then top with the remaining pistachio cream. Sprinkle the finely chopped pistachios evenly across the top for a beautiful finish.
07 -
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, though overnight is even better to let those flavors meld together beautifully. Slice and enjoy this creamy, nutty twist on a classic dessert!