Tiramisu Cupcakes

Let me introduce you to a dessert that combines the best of both worlds: the iconic tiramisu and the convenience of cupcakes. These Tiramisu Cupcakes are every bit as indulgent as their classic Italian counterpart, but in a portable, bite-sized form that’s perfect for any occasion. Picture fluffy, espresso-soaked sponge cake, a luscious mascarpone filling, and a dusting of cocoa powder—each bite is a little piece of heaven! These cupcakes are the perfect balance of sweet, rich, and just a hint of coffee, making them the ultimate treat for any dessert lover. Trust me, once you make these, you’ll be hooked.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, surprising someone special, or just treating yourself, these Tiramisu Cupcakes will have everyone asking for the recipe. They’re creamy, dreamy, and just the right amount of indulgent without being overwhelming. It’s like a mini tiramisu experience in every bite!

Why You’ll Love Tiramisu Cupcakes

Decadent Coffee Flavor

The espresso-soaked sponge cake is packed with deep, rich coffee flavor that blends perfectly with the creamy mascarpone filling, creating the ideal balance of sweetness and bitterness.

Easy to Make

Don’t let the fancy name fool you—these cupcakes are surprisingly simple to make. The steps are straightforward, and the result is an impressive dessert that looks (and tastes) like you spent hours making it.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These little cupcakes are ideal for parties, holidays, or as a sweet treat for any day of the week. They’re small enough for a snack but indulgent enough for a special celebration. You’ll impress your guests with these bite-sized delights.

Light Yet Rich

While rich and creamy, these cupcakes aren’t too heavy. The fluffy sponge and the airy mascarpone filling strike the perfect balance of texture and flavor, making them a delightful treat without overwhelming your taste buds.

Versatile

You can easily tweak the flavor to suit your preferences. Want a stronger coffee flavor? Add more espresso. Want it even more indulgent? Top them with a bit of whipped cream or extra cocoa powder.

Ingredients

For the Cupcake Base:

• All-Purpose Flour: The foundation for a light, fluffy sponge. It keeps the texture tender and soft.
• Baking Powder: Helps the cupcakes rise beautifully, giving them a light texture.
• Sugar: Adds the perfect amount of sweetness to balance the coffee flavor.
• Eggs: Gives the cupcakes structure and richness.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a subtle sweetness and enhances the flavor of the cupcakes.
• Milk: Adds moisture and makes the batter smooth and easy to mix.
• Butter: Rich, creamy butter that adds flavor and a soft crumb to the cake.
• Espresso Powder or Coffee: To infuse that signature coffee flavor into the cupcakes.

For the Filling:

• Mascarpone Cheese: The creamy, luxurious filling that’s the heart of tiramisu. It’s smooth, rich, and perfect for frosting.
• Heavy Cream: Whipped to soft peaks, it lightens the mascarpone and makes the filling fluffy and airy.
• Powdered Sugar: For sweetness and to help stabilize the filling.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor of the mascarpone filling.
• Rum or Coffee Liqueur (optional): A splash of rum or coffee liqueur adds an extra depth of flavor and authenticity to the filling.

For the Topping:

• Cocoa Powder: A light dusting of cocoa powder gives these cupcakes the signature tiramisu look and a touch of rich flavor.
• Chocolate Shavings (optional): For an extra indulgent topping, you can add chocolate shavings to complete the tiramisu vibe.

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card above.)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cupcake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. In a separate bowl, beat the sugar and eggs together until light and fluffy. Add the melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract, and mix until combined. Gradually add the flour mixture and stir until smooth. Finally, fold in the espresso powder or brewed coffee.

Step 2: Bake the Cupcakes

Spoon the batter into the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Mascarpone Filling

In a medium bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, whip the mixture until it becomes thick and creamy, forming soft peaks. If desired, add a splash of rum or coffee liqueur to enhance the flavor.

Step 4: Soak the Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, use a fork or toothpick to poke small holes in the tops of each cupcake. Brush the cupcakes generously with espresso or coffee syrup (you can make this by mixing hot brewed coffee with a little sugar, if desired). The coffee will soak into the cupcakes, infusing them with that signature tiramisu flavor.

Step 5: Fill the Cupcakes

Using a piping bag or a spoon, carefully pipe the mascarpone filling into the center of each cupcake. You can also top each cupcake with a generous swirl of the mascarpone mixture for a more decadent effect.

Step 6: Add the Finishing Touch

Dust the tops of the cupcakes with cocoa powder using a fine mesh strainer. For a fun touch, add a few chocolate shavings or chocolate curls on top for an extra indulgence.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Allow the cupcakes to set for a few minutes before serving so the filling firms up slightly. Then dig in and enjoy the best of tiramisu in cupcake form!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12
Calories per serving: 250-300
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour (including cooling)

How to Serve Tiramisu Cupcakes

As a Party Treat

These cupcakes are the perfect dessert for a dinner party, holiday gathering, or even a simple get-together. Serve them alongside coffee or after a delicious Italian meal for a true tiramisu experience.

With a Cup of Coffee

Tiramisu and coffee are a classic pairing, so why not enjoy your cupcakes with a hot cup of espresso or cappuccino? It’s the perfect way to elevate your dessert experience.

For a Sweet Snack

These cupcakes are also great for a sweet afternoon snack. Light yet indulgent, they hit the spot when you need something satisfying but not too heavy.

Make Them Ahead

Tiramisu cupcakes can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making them even more delicious the next day.

Additional Tips

Use Fresh Mascarpone

Make sure your mascarpone cheese is fresh and not too soft. If it’s too runny, your filling may not hold up as well.

Don’t Over-Soak the Cupcakes

While it’s tempting to soak the cupcakes in coffee, be careful not to make them too soggy. A light drizzle or brush of coffee is all you need to achieve the perfect flavor balance.

Add Extra Toppings

For an extra special touch, try adding whipped cream or chocolate ganache on top of the mascarpone filling.

Dairy-Free Option

To make this dessert dairy-free, swap the mascarpone for a dairy-free alternative and use a plant-based whipping cream for the filling.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use regular coffee instead of espresso powder?

A1: Yes! Brewed coffee works perfectly fine. Just make sure it’s strong enough to infuse the cupcakes with that rich coffee flavor.

Q2: Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?

A2: Absolutely! These cupcakes store well in the fridge for 1-2 days. The flavors only get better over time, and they’re a great make-ahead dessert.

Q3: Can I freeze the cupcakes?

A3: Yes, you can freeze the cupcakes before adding the filling. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, thaw them and add the filling.

Q4: Can I use a different filling?

A4: While mascarpone is traditional for tiramisu, you can use other creamy fillings like whipped cream cheese or ricotta if you prefer.

Q5: How can I make these cupcakes more indulgent?

A5: Add a drizzle of chocolate ganache on top of the mascarpone filling for a chocolatey twist, or add extra chocolate shavings on top for a rich finish.

Q6: Can I make these cupcakes without alcohol?

A6: Yes! The rum or coffee liqueur is optional. You can leave it out or substitute it with a splash of vanilla extract for added flavor.

Q7: How long will the mascarpone filling last in the fridge?

A7: The mascarpone filling can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Be sure to cover it tightly in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Q8: Can I make the coffee syrup in advance?

A8: Yes! You can make the coffee syrup ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just heat it up slightly before using it to soak the cupcakes.

Q9: Can I use a sugar substitute in this recipe?

A9: Yes, you can use a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol in both the cupcake batter and the mascarpone filling, but the texture and flavor may vary slightly.

Q10: Can I make mini tiramisu cupcakes?

A10: Absolutely! You can use a mini muffin tin to make bite-sized versions of these cupcakes. Just reduce the baking time slightly.

Conclusion

These Tiramisu Cupcakes are an irresistible twist on a classic dessert. With their delicate coffee flavor, creamy mascarpone filling, and light yet rich texture, they’ll quickly become your new favorite treat. Whether you’re serving them at a special occasion or simply enjoying them as a sweet indulgence, these cupcakes are sure to impress. So, go ahead—take a bite and let the flavors take you straight to dessert heaven!

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