01 - Beat heavy cream with half the sugar until soft peaks form, ensuring volume builds without overwhipping.
02 - Whisk mascarpone with remaining sugar and vanilla until smooth and lump-free. Gently fold whipped cream into mascarpone mixture until fully incorporated.
03 - Toss fresh raspberries with raspberry liqueur if using, coating evenly for enhanced fruit flavor.
04 - Quickly dip each ladyfinger into cooled coffee, soaking briefly without becoming soggy. Arrange half the ladyfingers in a single layer in an 8x8 inch baking dish.
05 - Spread half the mascarpone cream evenly over dipped ladyfingers. Scatter half the raspberries across the cream layer.
06 - Repeat layering with remaining coffee-dipped ladyfingers, mascarpone cream, and fresh raspberries.
07 - Cover dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for minimum 4 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld and texture to firm.
08 - Dust surface generously with powdered sugar using a sifter. Garnish with extra fresh raspberries and mint leaves before serving chilled.