Tiramisu Cupcakes Recipe

There's something undeniably elegant about tiramisu, with its delicate layers of espresso-soaked sponge and velvety mascarpone cream. Now, imagine that classic Italian dessert transformed into a perfectly portioned cupcake. These tiramisu cupcakes bring all the rich, coffee-infused flavors of traditional tiramisu into a fluffy, handheld treat.

this Recipe

I first made these when I wanted to impress guests without the hassle of layering a full tiramisu. The result? A show-stopping dessert that disappears from the table in minutes. Soft vanilla cupcakes are infused with espresso, topped with a dreamy mascarpone frosting, and finished with a dusting of cocoa powder. They’re as beautiful as they are delicious.

Why You'll Love These Tiramisu Cupcakes

Get ready to fall in love with this delightful twist on a classic. These tiramisu cupcakes are a must-try for coffee lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike.

First, they capture the luxurious taste of traditional tiramisu in an easy-to-make cupcake format. No need for layering or waiting overnight—these cupcakes deliver instant satisfaction.

They’re also incredibly light yet packed with flavor. The delicate crumb of the vanilla cupcake absorbs just the right amount of espresso, making every bite rich and moist without being soggy.

Perfect for special occasions, these cupcakes add a touch of sophistication to any gathering. Whether it's a dinner party, a birthday, or simply a treat for yourself, they’re guaranteed to impress.

Best of all, they’re simple to make. Even if you've never worked with mascarpone before, this frosting comes together effortlessly, creating a smooth, creamy topping that pairs beautifully with the espresso-soaked cake.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of these tiramisu cupcakes lies in the combination of simple yet high-quality ingredients. Each one plays a key role in delivering the perfect balance of flavors.

Cake flour gives these cupcakes a light, tender texture. If you don’t have cake flour on hand, you can make your own by replacing two tablespoons of all-purpose flour with cornstarch for every cup used.

Espresso or strong brewed coffee is essential for achieving that signature tiramisu flavor. A high-quality espresso will enhance the depth of flavor, but strong coffee works just as well.

Mascarpone cheese is the heart of the frosting. It provides the signature creaminess that makes tiramisu so irresistible. Be sure to use fresh mascarpone and avoid overmixing, as it can become too soft.

Heavy cream helps create a fluffy, pipeable frosting. Whipping it to stiff peaks before folding it into the mascarpone ensures the perfect consistency.

Cocoa powder adds the final touch of elegance. A light dusting on top not only enhances the look but also deepens the chocolatey notes, making each bite even more indulgent.

How To Make These Tiramisu Cupcakes

Creating these cupcakes is surprisingly simple, yet the results feel gourmet. Follow these steps for the perfect tiramisu cupcake experience.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining a muffin tin with cupcake liners. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients, ensuring the flour, baking powder, and salt are evenly distributed.

In a separate bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving a soft, tender cupcake. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with milk. Be careful not to overmix—just blend until the batter is smooth. Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners and bake for about 18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Once the cupcakes have cooled, brush the tops generously with espresso. Allow the coffee to soak in slightly, enhancing the flavor without making the cakes too wet.

For the frosting, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks and set aside. In a separate bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Gently fold in the whipped cream, being careful not to deflate the mixture.

Pipe or spread the frosting onto the cooled, coffee-soaked cupcakes. Finish with a dusting of cocoa powder for the classic tiramisu look and flavor.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), these tiramisu cupcakes store beautifully. Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The mascarpone frosting holds up well, but it’s best to enjoy them fresh.

For longer storage, you can freeze the unfrosted cupcakes for up to a month. Simply thaw at room temperature and frost before serving.

To refresh refrigerated cupcakes, let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before eating. This brings out their full flavor and ensures the frosting is creamy and smooth.

Variations and Substitutions

The versatility of these cupcakes means you can easily customize them to suit your preferences.

For a boozy twist, add a splash of coffee liqueur, such as Kahlúa, to the espresso before brushing it onto the cupcakes. This enhances the traditional tiramisu flavor.

If you prefer a non-coffee version, substitute the espresso with hot chocolate or a mild caramel syrup. This creates a delicious alternative for those who don’t enjoy coffee.

For a chocolatey upgrade, mix finely grated dark chocolate into the frosting. This adds a hint of extra richness without overpowering the classic tiramisu flavors.

To make them gluten-free, use a high-quality gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it's one designed for baking to achieve the best texture.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and toppings. Whether you drizzle them with caramel, top them with chocolate shavings, or sprinkle a bit of cinnamon, these cupcakes are a delicious canvas for creativity.

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