There are many variations on Zuppa inglese, or English trifle, in Italy. This one is Neapolitan, and calls for pan di Spagna rather than Savoiardi, and for ricotta instead of pastry cream. Different, but just as tasty ...
Savoiardi are a Piemontese specialty similar to lady fingers, though they're about twice as thick. In addition to being eaten as is, they figure prominently in many desserts, including puddings and tiramisu. If you buy them in the store, be sure they're fresh because their shelf life is limited. They shouldn't be soft ...