Ladyfinger (biscuit) Ladyfinger (biscuit) Ladyfingers, sometimes known by their original Italian name savoiardi, or as sponge fingers in British English, are low density, dry, egg-based, sweet sponge biscuits roughly shaped like a large finger. They are a principal ingredient in many dessert recipes, such as trifles and charlottes, and are also used as fruit or chocolate gateau linings, and sometimes for the sponge element of tiramisu. They are typically soaked in a sugar syrup or liqueur, or in coffee or espresso for the dessert tiramisu. Plain ladyfingers are commonly given to infants, being soft enough for teething mouths, but easy to grasp
Shortcake desserts are made along similar lines. It is also common to see recipes where the shortcake itself is flavored; coconut is a common addition. Though today's shortcakes are usually of the biscuit or sponge-cake variety, earlier American recipes called for pie crust in rounds or broken-up pieces, which was a variety still being enjoyed in the 21st century, particularly in the South. The first strawberry shortcake recipe appeared in an English cookbook as early as 1588, according to Driscoll's berry growers. By 1850, strawberry shortcake was a well-known biscuit and fruit dessert served hot with butter and sweetened cream. In