If you adore the creamy richness of tiramisu but want to serve it in a fun, approachable way, then this Tiramisu Cupcakes Recipe is just what you’ve been waiting for. Imagine biting into a moist coffee-infused cupcake topped with luscious mascarpone frosting and a dusting of cocoa powder that perfectly captures that classic Italian dessert flavor. These cupcakes bring the best of tiramisu into a portable, individual treat that delights every sense—perfect for parties, special occasions, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth with something extraordinary.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in building the delightful layers of flavor, texture, and aroma that make these cupcakes unforgettable. From the lightly spiced cake base to the dreamy mascarpone frosting, each component blends seamlessly to create a true tiramisu experience.
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for a tender, fluffy cupcake crumb that holds all the lovely flavors.
- 1 1/4 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cupcakes rise beautifully to a light and airy texture.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture, creating a velvety crumb.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter to just the right degree without overpowering the coffee notes.
- 2 large eggs: Provide structure and contribute to the cupcake’s tender bite.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the flavor that pairs wonderfully with coffee.
- 1/2 cup whole milk: Keeps the batter moist and tender for the perfect consistency.
- 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled: Imparts that signature espresso punch essential to tiramisu’s character.
- 1/4 cup coffee liqueur (optional): Adds a sophisticated boozy note that elevates the taste, though it can be skipped for a non-alcoholic version.
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese, softened: The star ingredient in the frosting, delivering creamy, tangy luxury.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Whipped with mascarpone to give the frosting a light, fluffy texture.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Sweetness for the frosting that balances the tanginess of mascarpone.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the frosting’s flavor with a sweet, aromatic note.
- Cocoa powder for dusting: Adds a final touch of bitterness and elegance that completes the tiramisu profile.
How to Make Tiramisu Cupcakes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dry Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners—this makes cleanup easy and the cupcakes look adorable. In a medium bowl, whisk together your flour, baking powder, and salt to ensure they’re evenly distributed, which helps your cupcakes rise perfectly and taste balanced.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is essential because it incorporates air into the batter, resulting in that tender, melt-in-your-mouth crumb we all crave.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully combined before adding the next. This prevents any curdling and promotes structure. Then stir in the vanilla extract, which adds warmth and rounds out the flavors beautifully.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Now, add the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry mixture. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can make cupcakes tough instead of fluffy.
Step 5: Bake Your Cupcakes
Divide the batter evenly among your lined muffin cups. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cupcakes to cool completely on a wire rack so the texture sets perfectly before adding any frosting.
Step 6: Infuse with Coffee and Liqueur
Mix the cooled brewed coffee with coffee liqueur if using. Brush or spoon this mixture generously over the cooled cupcake tops, instantly soaking in that signature tiramisu coffee goodness to elevate the flavor with every bite.
Step 7: Make the Mascarpone Frosting
In a clean bowl, beat together mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the frosting is fluffy and spreadable. This luxurious frosting is what transforms the cupcakes into tiramisu-inspired masterpieces.
Step 8: Frost and Dust
Pipe or spread the mascarpone frosting over each coffee-soaked cupcake, then finish with a sifted dusting of cocoa powder for that classic tiramisu look and a hint of bittersweet chocolate flavor. Chill briefly to set the frosting before serving.
How to Serve Tiramisu Cupcakes Recipe
Garnishes
These cupcakes are stunning on their own, but a sprinkle of chocolate shavings, a few espresso beans, or a light drizzle of chocolate syrup can add an extra touch of elegance. Fresh mint leaves can also provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy richness.
Side Dishes
Serve your tiramisu cupcakes alongside a rich espresso or a creamy cappuccino to amplify the coffee notes. A small bowl of fresh berries can add a bright, tangy element that complements the sweetness beautifully. For a festive touch, pair them with a glass of dessert wine or coffee liqueur on the side.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, arrange your cupcakes on a tiered stand with delicate lace doilies for a charming presentation. You might also put each cupcake in a clear cellophane bag tied with a coffee-colored ribbon for a thoughtful party favor. Experimenting with different piping tips for the frosting adds another layer of personalized flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Because these cupcakes contain mascarpone and whipped cream, refrigeration is a must to keep them fresh and safe to eat. Store leftover cupcakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They taste even better when chilled, as the flavors have time to meld beautifully.
Freezing
You can freeze unfrosted cupcakes for up to 2 months by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge before adding the coffee soak and mascarpone frosting for the best texture and taste.
Reheating
Since these cupcakes are best served chilled, reheating is usually not recommended. However, if you prefer slightly warmed cake, gently warm just the cupcake base in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before soaking and frosting. Avoid heating after frosting to prevent melting.
FAQs
Can I make this Tiramisu Cupcakes Recipe without coffee liqueur?
Absolutely! The coffee liqueur is optional and adds a lovely depth, but replacing it with extra brewed coffee makes this recipe perfect for all ages or anyone avoiding alcohol.
How long do these cupcakes last in the refrigerator?
Stored properly in an airtight container, tiramisu cupcakes stay fresh and delicious for up to three days. After that, the texture and flavor may start to decline.
Can I substitute the mascarpone cheese with something else?
Mascarpone is key for authentic flavor and richness, but you can try cream cheese for a slightly tangier frosting. Keep in mind it does change the traditional taste somewhat.
Is it possible to make these cupcakes vegan or dairy-free?
Creating a vegan or dairy-free version would require alternative ingredients like vegan butter, plant-based milk, and non-dairy cream substitutes. While possible, it would alter the classic tiramisu flavor and texture quite a bit.
What is the best way to transport these cupcakes to a party?
Keep cupcakes chilled and stable by transporting them in a cupcake carrier or a sturdy container with compartments. Keep them refrigerated until just before serving to maintain the frosting’s integrity.
Final Thoughts
This Tiramisu Cupcakes Recipe is a delightful twist on the traditional dessert that makes sharing joy even easier. Each bite captures the rich coffee essence, creamy frosting, and tender cake we all love from classic tiramisu. I can’t wait for you to bake these for your next gathering or cozy night in—they’re sure to become a beloved favorite in your recipe collection!
Print
Tiramisu Cupcakes Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 cupcakes
- Category: Dessert, Cupcakes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired, American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these luscious Tiramisu Cupcakes, combining the classic Italian flavors of coffee-soaked cake and creamy mascarpone frosting. Perfectly moist and topped with a dusting of cocoa powder, these cupcakes offer a sophisticated twist on traditional tiramisu in an easy-to-serve individual portion.
Ingredients
Cake Batter
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
- 1/4 cup coffee liqueur (optional)
Frosting
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Finishing
- Cocoa powder, for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners to ensure easy cupcake removal after baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined. This step ensures your cupcakes will have an even texture and proper rise.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which will help create a tender crumb.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, fully incorporating each before adding the next, then stir in the vanilla extract for flavor depth.
- Combine Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients alternately with the whole milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined to avoid overmixing, which can toughen the cupcakes.
- Fill and Bake: Evenly divide the batter into the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Remove the cupcakes from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Prepare Coffee Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the cooled brewed coffee and coffee liqueur (or extra coffee if omitting liqueur) to create the soaking liquid.
- Soak Cupcakes: Using a pastry brush or spoon, gently brush or drizzle the coffee mixture over the tops of the cooled cupcakes to infuse them with rich coffee flavor.
- Make Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth, fluffy, and spreadable.
- Frost Cupcakes: Pipe or generously spread the mascarpone frosting onto each coffee-soaked cupcake.
- Finish with Cocoa: Lightly dust the frosted cupcakes with cocoa powder for a classic tiramisu finish before serving.
Notes
- For a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the coffee liqueur and replace it with an equal amount of brewed coffee to maintain flavor.
- Store the tiramisu cupcakes in the refrigerator and serve them chilled to enjoy the best flavor and texture.
- Ensure the mascarpone is softened to room temperature before whipping to achieve the smoothest frosting consistency.
- If desired, top with chocolate shavings or espresso beans for an added decorative touch.
