There’s something magical about the combination of coffee and cream, especially when it’s infused into a dessert that feels both luxurious and familiar. Tiramisu Cupcakes are a modern twist on the beloved Italian classic, transforming the elegant layers of tiramisu into a handheld treat that’s perfect for celebrations, dinner parties, or just a quiet afternoon indulgence. If you’ve ever sat down with a slice of tiramisu in a cozy corner of a rustic trattoria, you know the feeling—a blend of warmth, sweetness, and a gentle buzz from the espresso that leaves you wanting just one more bite.
These cupcakes are all about that same comforting experience, distilled into a perfectly portioned dessert. The cake itself is soft and tender, infused with strong brewed espresso to echo the original’s coffee-soaked ladyfingers. The mascarpone frosting is light, fluffy, and not too sweet—just like the creamy layer in classic tiramisu. And the dusting of cocoa on top? It’s not just decoration; it’s the final flourish that ties all the flavors together, like a bow on a well-wrapped gift.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- All the flavors of tiramisu, no baking dish required. You get the creamy, coffee-soaked richness of tiramisu in a much more portable, party-friendly format.
- Easy to make, impressive to serve. These cupcakes are great for beginners and experienced bakers alike.
- Perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a baby shower, birthday brunch, holiday gathering, or just because—these cupcakes never fail to delight.
- Not overly sweet. Thanks to the mascarpone frosting and balanced espresso notes, they’re rich without being cloying.
Tiramisu Cupcakes
- Yield: 12 cupcakes
Description
There’s something magical about the combination of coffee and cream, especially when it’s infused into a dessert that feels both luxurious and familiar. Tiramisu Cupcakes are a modern twist on the beloved Italian classic, transforming the elegant layers of tiramisu into a handheld treat that’s perfect for celebrations, dinner parties, or just a quiet afternoon indulgence. If you’ve ever sat down with a slice of tiramisu in a cozy corner of a rustic trattoria, you know the feeling—a blend of warmth, sweetness, and a gentle buzz from the espresso that leaves you wanting just one more bite.
These cupcakes are all about that same comforting experience, distilled into a perfectly portioned dessert. The cake itself is soft and tender, infused with strong brewed espresso to echo the original’s coffee-soaked ladyfingers. The mascarpone frosting is light, fluffy, and not too sweet—just like the creamy layer in classic tiramisu. And the dusting of cocoa on top? It’s not just decoration; it’s the final flourish that ties all the flavors together, like a bow on a well-wrapped gift.
Ingredients
- For the Cupcakes:
-
1¼ cups all-purpose flour
-
½ teaspoon baking powder
-
¼ teaspoon baking soda
-
¼ teaspoon salt
-
¾ cup granulated sugar
-
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
-
2 large eggs
-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
-
½ cup sour cream
-
¼ cup strong brewed espresso, cooled
- For the Coffee Soak:
-
½ cup strong brewed espresso
-
2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)
- For the Mascarpone Frosting:
-
1 cup mascarpone cheese
-
½ cup powdered sugar
-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
-
1 cup heavy whipping cream
- For Garnish:
-
Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)
-
Chocolate shavings or curls (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a standard 12-cup muffin pan with paper liners. This recipe makes exactly one dozen cupcakes, so every slot will be filled with deliciousness.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution and helps prevent overmixing later.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with the sugar until light and fluffy—about 3 minutes. This step is key for a tender crumb. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Gently mix in the sour cream and cooled espresso until well combined. The espresso adds a deep, aromatic note that sets the tone for the rest of the recipe.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until no dry streaks remain. Be careful not to overmix, which can make the cupcakes dense.
Step 6: Bake the Cupcakes
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared liners, filling each about ¾ full. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Make the Coffee Soak
While the cupcakes cool, mix the espresso with coffee liqueur (if using). Once the cupcakes are cool, use a fork or skewer to poke several holes in the top of each. Brush the soak over each cupcake until lightly saturated. Let them absorb the coffee for 10 minutes.
Step 8: Prepare the Mascarpone Frosting
In a medium bowl, beat the mascarpone, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture. The result should be airy and creamy, with a texture similar to whipped frosting.
Step 9: Frost and Garnish
Pipe or spread the mascarpone frosting onto each cupcake. Finish with a dusting of cocoa powder and, if desired, a few chocolate curls for extra flair.
Notes
These cupcakes taste even better after chilling for a bit—the flavors meld beautifully after an hour or two in the fridge. For special occasions, serve on a white platter with a few chocolate-dipped espresso beans for added charm.
Nutrition
- Calories: 370
INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED
For the Cupcakes:
- 1¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup strong brewed espresso, cooled
For the Coffee Soak:
- ½ cup strong brewed espresso
- 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)
For the Mascarpone Frosting:
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
For Garnish:
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)
- Chocolate shavings or curls (optional)
HOW TO MAKE Tiramisu Cupcakes
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a standard 12-cup muffin pan with paper liners. This recipe makes exactly one dozen cupcakes, so every slot will be filled with deliciousness.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution and helps prevent overmixing later.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with the sugar until light and fluffy—about 3 minutes. This step is key for a tender crumb. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Gently mix in the sour cream and cooled espresso until well combined. The espresso adds a deep, aromatic note that sets the tone for the rest of the recipe.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until no dry streaks remain. Be careful not to overmix, which can make the cupcakes dense.
Step 6: Bake the Cupcakes
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared liners, filling each about ¾ full. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Make the Coffee Soak
While the cupcakes cool, mix the espresso with coffee liqueur (if using). Once the cupcakes are cool, use a fork or skewer to poke several holes in the top of each. Brush the soak over each cupcake until lightly saturated. Let them absorb the coffee for 10 minutes.
Step 8: Prepare the Mascarpone Frosting
In a medium bowl, beat the mascarpone, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture. The result should be airy and creamy, with a texture similar to whipped frosting.
Step 9: Frost and Garnish
Pipe or spread the mascarpone frosting onto each cupcake. Finish with a dusting of cocoa powder and, if desired, a few chocolate curls for extra flair.
HELPFUL TIPS
- Espresso alternatives: Don’t have an espresso machine? Use strong instant coffee or a stovetop moka pot.
- Chill the frosting if needed: If your frosting gets too soft while piping, pop it into the fridge for 10–15 minutes.
- Decorate just before serving: Cocoa powder looks best freshly dusted and won’t absorb into the frosting if you wait until the last moment.
DETAILS
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 cupcakes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
NOTES
These cupcakes taste even better after chilling for a bit—the flavors meld beautifully after an hour or two in the fridge. For special occasions, serve on a white platter with a few chocolate-dipped espresso beans for added charm.
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION (PER CUPCAKE)
- Calories: 370
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Sugar: 26g
- Protein: 5g
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I make these without mascarpone?
If mascarpone isn’t available, you can use cream cheese as a substitute, though the flavor will be slightly tangier.
Can I freeze these cupcakes?
Yes, but it’s best to freeze them unfrosted. Thaw and then frost fresh for the best texture.
Do they taste like real tiramisu?
Absolutely! The coffee-soaked cake and mascarpone topping are faithful to the original, just with a modern cupcake spin.
STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Best enjoyed within 2–3 days.
- Let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving for the best flavor.
Related Recipes
If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cheesy delights:
- Brown Sugar Pecan Pumpkin Muffins
- A Cozy Treat: No Bake Brownie Bites That Bring Comfort Home
- Cookies and Cream Cupcakes
CONCLUSION
Tiramisu Cupcakes are the kind of dessert that turns a simple moment into something memorable. They blend tradition with innovation, bringing the rich flavors of Italy to your kitchen with ease. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just treating yourself, each cupcake is a celebration of balance—light and rich, sweet and bold, delicate and deeply satisfying. Bake a batch today and taste how a classic dessert can become something fresh and delightful.