I figured out that ladyfinger, the cookie-like pastry used in a tiramisu was just genoise cake piped out, and to make it easier, I was planning on baking the genoise with the correct amount of xanthan gum.  This time I used the kitchenaid.  It was much easier this time and the cake turned out much less dense than the chocolate one.  (Not that the chocolate one still wasn't good. People loved the truffle covered cake pieces even more than the triple layer truffle cake itself.)

Now tiramisu is a combination of ladyfingers, espresso, possibly a liquor, marscapone cheese and cocoa powder.  Pretty simple....

But my espresso machine broke.

I own a Expobar Brewtus II, purchased back in '06 that I've used for years.  I pretty much said that it'd pay for itself in a year or two, since I could make my own espresso drinks.  It was very worth it.  This year I knew I would be doing some long awaited maintenance, replacing gaskets, washers.  In fact, the machine was constantly dripping due to a worn out washer (I believe).  While baking, I decided to take it apart and clean it.  There was quite a buildup of calcium, created due to me not recharging the water softener filter as often as I should.  While I cleaned that off, I saw that the washers were indeed worn out and needed replacing.   
You can see here: http://coffeetime.wikidot.com/e61-internal-diagram that there are lots of different pieces involved.  I found out I will need to replace quite a bit, especially since valve was so worn out, it snapped in half.
I'm tempted to upgrade, but I expect that I'll be able to repair it for under 100 dollars, even less if I don't have to replace all three valves (maybe 25 including shipping).  I pretty much need to save money due to needing other repairs done to a large number of things, including my car, which is 13 years old, and seems to have some invisible leaks for oil, steering fluid and antifreeze.  It's been said it's not worth repairing.

Of course, I also seem to keep purchasing beer supplies.  It's a nice hobby, but like any hobby, it can be expensive, but on the plus side, I learn a craft, new skills and an enjoyable outcome.

In any case, I'm working on repairing the machine now and will redo the cake at another time.  In the meantime, I'll see if I have the energy to make it a cake, or if I'll just snack on it with some leftover chocolate truffle when I have my french press brewed coffee.