Prepare the coffee mixture: Combine cooled brewed coffee with 1 tablespoon of matcha powder. Add coffee or matcha liqueur, if desired.
Lightly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture, ensuring they are moistened but not soggy. Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of a baking dish.
Prepare the cream: If using cream cheese substitute, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream with sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Gently fold whipped cream into the mascarpone or cream cheese mixture.
Incorporate matcha: Sift remaining 1 tablespoon of matcha powder into the cream mixture. Gently fold until evenly combined.
Spread half of the cream mixture evenly over the layer of ladyfingers.
Repeat layers: Arrange another layer of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, followed by the remaining cream mixture.
Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the tiramisu to set.
Before serving, dust the top generously with additional matcha powder.
Optional Tips: For a vegan option, use a cashew-based cream cheese and coconut cream. Adjust sweetness to taste. Sifting the matcha powder prevents clumps in the cream mixture. The soaking time for the ladyfingers depends on their dryness; adjust accordingly to avoid a soggy tiramisu.