Ottamisena

Ottamisena is a traditional Italian dessert that has gained popularity in recent years. It is a layered cake made with ladyfingers (savoiardi) soaked in a mixture of coffee and rum, and then layered with a creamy mascarpone cheese filling. The cake is typically dusted with powdered sugar and often garnished with additional ladyfingers or a cherry.

The origins of ottamisena are not entirely clear, but it is believed to have been created in the late 20th century. The name "ottamisena" is a portmanteau of "otto" (eight) and "misena" (a term for a type of cake), referring to the eight layers of ladyfingers and mascarpone filling.

The coffee and rum mixture gives ottamisena its distinctive flavor, while the mascarpone cheese provides a rich and creamy texture. The cake is often served chilled and is a popular choice for coffee shops and cafes. It can also be enjoyed as a dessert or a snack, making it a versatile treat.

Ottamisena is typically made with the following ingredients: ladyfingers, strong coffee, rum, mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and sometimes a cherry for garnish. The cake is assembled by soaking the ladyfingers in the coffee and rum mixture, layering them with the mascarpone filling, and dusting the top with powdered sugar. The cake is then chilled before serving.

While ottamisena is not a traditional Italian dessert, it has become a popular choice for those looking for a unique and delicious treat. Its combination of coffee, rum, and mascarpone makes it a standout dessert in Italian cuisine.