These tiramisu cupcakes are a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert. With layers of coffee-soaked sponge, a creamy mascarpone frosting, and a dusting of cocoa powder, they deliver the beloved flavors of tiramisu in a convenient, portable form. Perfect for parties, special occasions, or simply indulging your dessert cravings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Combines the flavors of tiramisu with the convenience of cupcakes.
- Easy to serve and portion-controlled for any gathering.
- Moist, rich, and layered with the perfect balance of coffee, mascarpone, and cocoa.
- Can be made ahead, making them ideal for entertaining.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- All-purpose flour
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Unsalted butter
- Granulated sugar
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
- Milk
- Strong brewed coffee or espresso
- Mascarpone cheese
- Heavy cream
- Powdered sugar
- Cocoa powder
Directions
- Preheat your oven and line a cupcake pan with liners.
- Whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with milk, until just combined.
- Fill cupcake liners about two-thirds full and bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool completely.
- Brew a strong coffee or espresso and let it cool. Brush the coffee onto the tops of the cupcakes for that signature tiramisu flavor.
- Prepare the mascarpone frosting: whip mascarpone, heavy cream, and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Pipe or spread the frosting generously on each cupcake.
- Dust the cupcakes with cocoa powder and serve chilled.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12 cupcakes
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Variations
- Substitute the coffee with decaf for a caffeine-free version.
- Add a splash of coffee liqueur to the coffee soak for an adult twist.
- Use chocolate shavings instead of cocoa powder for garnish.
- Try layering the cupcakes with a coffee-flavored whipped cream for added richness.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: These cupcakes are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so no reheating is required.
FAQs
1. Can I make tiramisu cupcakes ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cupcakes a day in advance and frost them closer to serving time.
2. What type of coffee is best for tiramisu cupcakes?
Use strong brewed coffee or espresso for an authentic flavor.
3. Can I use cream cheese instead of mascarpone?
While mascarpone is traditional, cream cheese can be used as a substitute for a similar texture.
4. How do I prevent the cupcakes from being soggy?
Brush the coffee lightly on the cupcakes instead of soaking them to maintain the right texture.
5. Can I freeze tiramisu cupcakes?
Yes, but freeze them without frosting for best results. Add frosting and cocoa powder after thawing.
6. Are these cupcakes suitable for kids?
Yes, if you skip any added coffee liqueur, they are kid-friendly.
7. Can I use a different frosting?
Certainly, whipped cream frosting or buttercream can be used, though mascarpone frosting gives the most authentic taste.
8. How can I make the cupcakes gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour.
9. What’s the best way to dust cocoa powder without making a mess?
Use a fine-mesh sieve or sifter to evenly dust cocoa powder over the frosting.
10. How long do these cupcakes last at room temperature?
They should not be left out for more than 2 hours due to the mascarpone frosting.
Conclusion
Tiramisu cupcakes are a sophisticated yet simple dessert that brings the flavors of a classic tiramisu into an easy-to-serve cupcake form. Whether for a casual treat or a special occasion, these cupcakes are sure to impress with their rich coffee flavor, creamy frosting, and elegant appearance. Try them today and enjoy a little taste of Italy in every bite!
PrintTiramisu Cupcakes
Tiramisu cupcakes are a delightful fusion of classic Italian tiramisu and the beloved cupcake, offering a portable and individually portioned dessert. These moist vanilla cupcakes are infused with a coffee syrup, filled or topped with a creamy mascarpone frosting, and finished with a dusting of cocoa powder.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 cupcakes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Tiramisu cupcakes are a delightful fusion of classic Italian tiramisu and the beloved cupcake, offering a portable and individually portioned dessert. These moist vanilla cupcakes are infused with a coffee syrup, filled or topped with a creamy mascarpone frosting, and finished with a dusting of cocoa powder.
Instructions
- Prepare the Cupcakes:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Coffee Soak:
- In a small bowl, combine the cooled espresso or coffee, coffee liqueur (if using), and granulated sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
- Soak the Cupcakes:
- Once the cupcakes have cooled, use a toothpick or skewer to poke several holes in the top of each cupcake.
- Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the coffee soak over each cupcake, allowing it to absorb into the cake.
- Prepare the Mascarpone Frosting:
- In a large bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese, cold heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
- Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on low speed until it begins to thicken, then increase to medium-high speed and continue beating until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overbeat, as the mixture can curdle.
- Frost the Cupcakes:
- Transfer the mascarpone frosting to a piping bag fitted with your preferred tip. Pipe the frosting onto each cupcake.
- Garnish:
- Lightly dust the tops of the frosted cupcakes with unsweetened cocoa powder just before serving.
Notes
- For a non-alcoholic version, omit the coffee liqueur in the coffee soak.
- Store the cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.