If you’re craving a classic Italian treat but want a fun handheld twist, Tiramisu Cupcakes are the answer! Imagine all the luscious flavors of creamy mascarpone, bold espresso, and sweet vanilla cake in the form of an adorable cupcake—each bite delivers that unmistakable tiramisu magic, but with less fuss than the traditional layered dessert. These cupcakes bring a cozy coffeehouse aroma to your kitchen and transform any day or gathering into a celebration.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Tiramisu Cupcakes comes from a handful of simple yet essential ingredients—each one brings a crucial element of taste, texture, or that gorgeous finish. Grab your favorites from your pantry and fridge and let each flavor shine in its own way!
- All-purpose flour: Provides a tender base for the cupcakes and ensures a sturdy structure to hold all that coffee soak and creamy topping.
- Baking powder: Just the right amount gives the cupcakes that perfect, fluffy lift.
- Salt: Enhances and balances the sweetness in the cake and mascarpone frosting.
- Unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness and a melt-in-your-mouth texture to each bite—don’t forget to let it come to room temp!
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cupcakes and helps create that delicate crumb.
- Large eggs: Bind everything together and lend structure and moisture to the cake.
- Vanilla extract: A splash here perfumes both the cake and frosting with cozy warmth.
- Whole milk: Keeps the cupcakes moist and tender (don’t skimp with skim for this recipe).
- Strong brewed espresso or coffee (cooled): The heart and soul of tiramisu—soak your cupcakes for that signature flavor.
- Coffee liqueur (optional): A classic addition for adult gatherings (or simply more depth even without the booze).
- Sugar (for soak): Softens the sharpness of the espresso and helps everything meld beautifully.
- Mascarpone cheese (softened): The creamy, dreamy anchor of the frosting—you can’t have tiramisu without it!
- Heavy whipping cream: Lightens the mascarpone frosting for pillowy peaks.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting without heaviness (and blends smoothly).
- Cocoa powder: A classic finishing touch—dust just before serving to make your cupcakes look and taste like a true Italian café treat.
How to Make Tiramisu Cupcakes
Step 1: Prepare the Cupcake Base
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with 12 cupcake liners. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt—this helps evenly distribute the leavening and ensures a smooth batter. In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy; don’t rush this step, as it gives you that tender cupcake texture. Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition, before stirring in the vanilla extract. Gently mix in your flour mixture, alternating with the milk, until just combined. Take care not to overmix. Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners and bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let them cool completely before the magic begins!
Step 2: Make the Espresso Soak
While the cupcakes cool, whip up that classic tiramisu coffee soak. Combine the brewed espresso (or strong coffee), coffee liqueur if you’re feeling festive, and sugar in a small bowl, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved. This flavorful liquid is where Tiramisu Cupcakes get their unmistakable kick, and it’s a step you don’t want to skip—taste it, and you’ll see exactly why.
Step 3: Infuse the Cupcakes with Coffee
Take a toothpick or wooden skewer and gently poke holes into the tops of each cooled cupcake. Spoon the espresso soak slowly over each, allowing the coffee to seep into the delicate crumb. If you prefer your cupcakes extra moist and bold, give them an extra splash. Let them sit for a few minutes so that all the flavors can meld—it’s at this stage the cupcakes start smelling just like tiramisu from your favorite trattoria.
Step 4: Prepare the Mascarpone Frosting
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese, heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until the mixture is creamy, smooth, and thick enough to pipe or generously spoon onto your cupcakes—do not overbeat, as mascarpone can curdle if handled too much. This frosting is decadent, cool, and impossibly airy, just like the filling of a true tiramisu.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Generously frost each soaked cupcake with the mascarpone mixture, either with a piping bag for bakery-worthy swirls or simply using a spatula for rustic charm. Right before serving, dust each Tiramisu Cupcake with a feather-light layer of cocoa powder. The cocoa not only adds a beautiful visual but balances the sweetness and rounds out that familiar tiramisu flavor profile.
How to Serve Tiramisu Cupcakes
Garnishes
To really bring out the Italian cafe vibes, a dusting of unsweetened cocoa powder is a must—sprinkle it over each cupcake just before serving for drama and a bit of bitterness. For an extra special flourish, add a chocolate-covered espresso bean or a few dark chocolate shavings right on top. A sprig of fresh mint or some chocolate curls will make your Tiramisu Cupcakes truly unforgettable at any gathering.
Side Dishes
Tiramisu Cupcakes are an absolute showstopper on their own, but if you want the full experience, pair them with a demitasse of hot espresso or a velvety cappuccino. If you’re serving these at a party, a simple citrusy fruit salad or a platter of mixed berries will brighten the table and offer a refreshing contrast to the rich, coffee-kissed cupcakes. Guests won’t be able to resist coming back for seconds!
Creative Ways to Present
For a modern twist, set up a “decorate your own Tiramisu Cupcake” bar with bowls of extra cocoa, chocolate chips, or even a drizzle of coffee syrup. Arrange the cupcakes on a tiered stand for an elegant afternoon tea, or nestle each one in a parchment tulip wrapper for a rustic Italian bakery feel. If you’re hosting a mini dessert sampler, display the cupcakes alongside espresso panna cotta or individual cannoli for the ultimate Italian-inspired ensemble.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Tiramisu Cupcakes store wonderfully in the refrigerator. Place them in an airtight container and keep them chilled for up to 2 days for best texture and flavor. The mascarpone frosting stays creamy and the coffee soak keeps the cupcakes moist, making them just as delicious the next day.
Freezing
If you’d like to prepare in advance, you can freeze the unfrosted cupcakes for up to 2 months—simply wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag. Thaw the cupcakes at room temperature, then add the espresso soak and mascarpone frosting fresh for the best tiramisu experience.
Reheating
Since these treats are best enjoyed chilled, there’s no need for reheating. However, if you’ve frozen the cupcake bases, let them thaw at room temperature before assembling. The cool temperature not only holds the mascarpone frosting beautifully but also makes the espresso flavors pop!
FAQs
Can I make Tiramisu Cupcakes without coffee liqueur?
Absolutely! The coffee liqueur adds depth and an authentic tiramisu note, but you can simply leave it out for an alcohol-free version—just bump up the coffee a touch for extra flavor. Your Tiramisu Cupcakes will still taste incredible.
Can I use cream cheese instead of mascarpone?
Mascarpone is traditional for tiramisu, offering a sweeter and richer taste. However, if necessary, you can blend full-fat cream cheese with a touch of heavy cream to soften the tang—just know you’ll sacrifice some classic flavor and texture.
How do I avoid over-soaking the cupcakes?
The key is to spoon the espresso mixture slowly and give it a moment to absorb between spoonfuls. You want the cupcake to be moist but not soggy, so start with less and add more as you like. They should hold together when unwrapped.
Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?
Yes! Just use your favorite gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour, and make sure all other ingredients are GF-friendly. These cupcakes are quite forgiving and taste just as delicious with the swap.
How long can I keep Tiramisu Cupcakes out at room temperature?
Because of the mascarpone and cream, Tiramisu Cupcakes should only be left out for about 2 hours. After that, pop any leftovers in the fridge to keep them fresh and safe to eat.
Final Thoughts
There’s something undeniably joyful about biting into a Tiramisu Cupcake—each one delivers the comfort and extravagance of a classic Italian dessert without the need for a plate. Whether you’re making them for a special event or just to surprise the coffee lovers in your life, this recipe is bound to leave lasting smiles. Give these cupcakes a try, and let tiramisu magic fill your kitchen and your heart!
Print
Tiramisu Cupcakes Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 cupcakes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of traditional tiramisu in cupcake form with these moist and flavorful treats. Perfect for any occasion, these Tiramisu Cupcakes are sure to impress!
Ingredients
Cupcake Batter:
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ¼ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup whole milk
Espresso Soak:
- ½ cup strong brewed espresso or coffee (cooled)
- 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
Mascarpone Frosting:
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese (softened)
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Cocoa powder for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with 12 cupcake liners.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each, then add vanilla. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with the milk, until just combined.
- Bake Cupcakes: Divide batter evenly among liners and bake for 18–20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool cupcakes completely.
- Prepare Espresso Soak: In a small bowl, mix espresso, coffee liqueur (if using), and sugar until dissolved. Poke holes in the cupcakes and spoon the coffee mixture over each one to soak in.
- Make Mascarpone Frosting: Beat the mascarpone, heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and thick enough to frost the cupcakes.
- Frost Cupcakes: Frost the cupcakes and dust lightly with cocoa powder before serving.
Notes
- For an alcohol-free version, omit the coffee liqueur.
- Keep cupcakes refrigerated and enjoy within 2 days for best texture and flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cupcake
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
