Tiramisu Cupcakes Recipe

Quick & Heavenly Tiramisu Cupcakes Recipe For Coffee Lovers

Decadent tiramisu cupcakes deliver an Italian dessert twist that’ll make your taste buds dance with delight.

Coffee-soaked sponge layers whisper sweet promises of creamy indulgence.

Mascarpone cheese blends seamlessly with delicate cake textures.

Rich espresso notes weave through each tender bite.

Cocoa powder dusts the top like a delicate chocolate snowfall.

Elegant yet approachable, these miniature treats capture the classic dessert’s soul in a single, irresistible package.

Best Pairings with Tiramisu Cupcakes

  • Pair Espresso Martini: Craft a smooth espresso martini that mirrors the cupcake's coffee essence, blending vodka, coffee liqueur, and fresh espresso for a complementary boozy experience.
  • Coffee Wine Connection: Select a rich, full-bodied dessert wine like port or a late harvest Riesling that echoes the deep coffee and chocolate notes in the tiramisu cupcake.
  • Flavor Balancing Cheese Plate: Arrange a small plate with mascarpone, dark chocolate pieces, and toasted almonds to enhance the cupcake's complex flavor profile and creamy texture.
  • Italian Digestif Finale: Serve a small glass of chilled Frangelico or amaretto alongside the cupcake, creating a traditional Italian dessert pairing that highlights the recipe's sweet and coffee undertones.

How to Store Tiramisu Cupcakes

  • Store covered in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent frosting from sticking.
  • Wrap individual cupcakes tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for maximum 1 month. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before serving.
  • Remove from refrigerator 30 minutes before serving to soften frosting and enhance flavor.
  • Use a kitchen torch to lightly warm cupcakes for 10-15 seconds, which helps restore moisture and brings out the coffee and mascarpone flavors.

FAQs on Tiramisu Cupcakes

  • What makes the coffee soak important in this recipe?

The coffee soak adds intense coffee flavor and moisture to the cupcakes, creating an authentic tiramisu experience by infusing each bite with rich espresso and coffee liqueur.

  • Can I use instant coffee instead of espresso?

Yes, you can substitute espresso with strong brewed instant coffee, but the flavor will be slightly less intense. Ensure the coffee is concentrated and cooled before using in the recipe.

  • How do I make perfect chocolate curls for garnish?

Use a vegetable peeler against a room temperature chocolate bar, moving slowly to create delicate curls. Chill the chocolate slightly if it’s too soft to curl properly.

What Makes Tiramisu Cupcakes So Special

  • Craft a Flavor Explosion: Dive into a decadent dessert that merges classic tiramisu magic with adorable cupcake charm, delivering an irresistible taste adventure.
  • Impress Without Stress: Create a sophisticated treat that looks professionally crafted but requires minimal baking skills, perfect for home cooks wanting to wow their guests.
  • Customize with Ease: Adapt the recipe by adjusting coffee intensity, adding different chocolate garnishes, or making mini versions for parties and gatherings.
  • Transform Ordinary Moments: Elevate everyday dessert experiences with these gourmet cupcakes that bring Italian-inspired elegance to your table, making any occasion feel special.

Ingredients Needed for Tiramisu Cupcakes

Cake Base:
  • All-Purpose Flour: A key ingredient that provides structure to the cupcake.
  • Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a tender crumb.
  • Butter: Contributes richness and helps create a soft texture.
  • Eggs: Bind the ingredients and provide moisture to the cupcakes.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor of the cupcake.
  • Sour Cream: Adds moisture and creates a tender, soft texture.
Liquid and Leavening Ingredients:
  • Espresso, Coffee Liqueur: Provides a deep coffee flavor to the cupcakes.
  • Baking Powder, Baking Soda: Helps the cupcakes rise and become light and fluffy.
  • Salt: Balances and enhances the other flavors in the recipe.
Frosting and Topping:
  • Mascarpone Cheese: Creates a rich and creamy frosting base.
  • Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and helps stabilize the frosting.
  • Heavy Cream: Adds lightness and volume to the mascarpone frosting.
  • Cocoa Powder: Used for dusting and adding a classic tiramisu touch.
  • Chocolate Curls: Provides a decorative and delicious garnish.

How to Prepare Tiramisu Cupcakes

Step 1: Whip Up the Cupcake Batter

Preheat the oven to a toasty 350F. Grab a muffin tin and line it with cupcake papers. In a bowl, blend together:
  • All-purpose flour
  • Baking powder
  • Baking soda
  • Salt

In another bowl, cream sugar and butter until they transform into a fluffy cloud. Add eggs one by one, then pour in vanilla. Mix in sour cream and a shot of espresso. Gently fold in the dry ingredients until just combined.

Step 2: Bake to Golden Perfection

Fill each cupcake liner about three-quarters full with the luscious batter. Slide the tin into the oven and bake for 18-20 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick – it should come out clean. Let the cupcakes cool completely.

Step 3: Create the Coffee Soak

Blend espresso with coffee liqueur. Using a fork, poke tiny holes across the top of each cupcake. Generously brush the coffee mixture over the cupcakes, letting them soak up the rich flavor.

Step 4: Whip Up the Dreamy Frosting

In one bowl, beat mascarpone cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla until silky smooth. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until it forms stiff, cloud-like peaks. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture.

Step 5: Decorate with Decadence

Pipe or spread the luxurious frosting onto each cupcake. Dust the tops with a light sprinkle of cocoa powder. For an extra touch of elegance, garnish with delicate chocolate curls.

Serve and watch everyone swoon over these coffee-infused delights!

Pro Tips for Tiramisu Cupcakes Success

  • Add strong espresso for an intense coffee flavor that elevates the cupcake's taste profile.
  • Ensure cupcakes are completely cool before soaking to prevent soggy texture and maintain structural integrity.
  • Use room temperature ingredients like eggs and butter for smoother, more even batter mixing.
  • Gently fold whipped cream into mascarpone to maintain light, airy frosting consistency without deflating.
  • Chill cupcakes for 30 minutes before serving to help frosting set and enhance flavor melding.

Variations to Elevate Tiramisu Cupcakes

  • Mocha Madness: Replace espresso with strong brewed mocha coffee and add chocolate chips to the cupcake batter for an intense chocolate-coffee flavor profile.
  • Nutella Nook: Swirl Nutella into the mascarpone frosting and sprinkle crushed hazelnuts on top for a rich, nutty variation.
  • Amaretto Allure: Substitute coffee liqueur with amaretto liqueur in the coffee soak and add almond extract to the cupcake batter for a sophisticated Italian-inspired version.
  • Salted Caramel Charm: Drizzle homemade salted caramel sauce over the frosted cupcakes and sprinkle sea salt flakes for a sweet and salty combination.
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Tiramisu Cupcakes Recipe

Tiramisu Cupcakes Recipe


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4.5 from 27 reviews

  • Total Time: 38-40 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Heavenly Tiramisu Cupcakes blend Italian dessert magic with classic cupcake charm, creating a luxurious treat that dances between espresso-soaked sponge and silky mascarpone cream. Coffee-infused delight awaits when you savor each delicate bite of this irresistible culinary masterpiece.


Ingredients

Scale

Cupcake Base:

  • 1 1/4 cups (157 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup (150 grams) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) sour cream

Leavening Agents:

  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Flavor Enhancers:

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) espresso or strong brewed coffee, cooled

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350F (175C) and prepare a muffin tin with cupcake liners, ensuring even spacing for uniform baking.
  2. Create the cupcake batter by whisking together dry ingredients in a separate bowl, ensuring no lumps remain.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, cream sugar and butter until the mixture becomes light and airy, creating a smooth base for the cupcakes.
  4. Incorporate eggs individually into the butter mixture, mixing thoroughly after each addition to maintain a consistent texture.
  5. Blend in vanilla extract, sour cream, and espresso, which will enhance the deep flavor profile of the cupcakes.
  6. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined to prevent overmixing.
  7. Distribute the batter evenly into cupcake liners, filling each approximately 3/4 full to allow room for rising during baking.
  8. Bake for 18-20 minutes, checking doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center – it should emerge clean when the cupcakes are fully cooked.
  9. Allow cupcakes to cool completely on a wire rack, which prevents soggy bottoms and prepares them for the coffee soak.
  10. Prepare the coffee soak by combining espresso and coffee liqueur, creating a rich, intense liquid for moistening the cupcakes.
  11. Using a fork, gently pierce the top of each cooled cupcake multiple times to create channels for the coffee soak.
  12. Carefully brush each cupcake with the coffee mixture, ensuring even distribution for maximum flavor absorption.
  13. Prepare the mascarpone frosting by beating mascarpone, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.
  14. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream to stiff peaks, creating a light and airy texture.
  15. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture, maintaining the delicate airiness of the frosting.
  16. Pipe or spread the frosting generously onto each cupcake, creating elegant peaks and swirls.
  17. Finish by dusting with cocoa powder and garnishing with delicate chocolate curls for a professional, appetizing presentation.

Notes

  • Espresso Intensity: Choose a high-quality, robust espresso to enhance the deep coffee flavor throughout the cupcakes.
  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better texture.
  • Gentle Mixing: Avoid overmixing the batter to prevent tough, dense cupcakes that lose their delicate crumb.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake cupcakes a day in advance and store in an airtight container to develop richer flavors.
  • Dietary Modifications: Swap regular flour with gluten-free flour blend for a celiac-friendly version, and use dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream and vegan butter.
  • Alcohol-Free Option: Replace coffee liqueur with additional espresso or coffee syrup for a non-alcoholic alternative that maintains the classic tiramisu taste.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 18-20 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 216
  • Sugar: 15 g
  • Sodium: 135 mg
  • Fat: 11 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 26 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 55 mg
Samantha Lee

Samantha Lee

Recipe Developer & Content Creator

Expertise

Plant-based and vegetarian recipes, Recipe testing and development, Food blogging and digital content creation, Culinary education and workshops​

Education

Oregon Culinary Institute (Portland, OR)

  • Program: Diploma in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Emphasized plant-based cooking, global cuisines, and recipe testing methodologies.​

Samantha sees cooking like painting, every fresh herb, every juicy tomato, a new splash of color on a canvas.
After graduating from Oregon Culinary Institute, she blended her love of global cuisines and plant-based cooking into recipes that feel fresh, fearless, and full of heart.
Samantha’s kitchen is a place where comfort food gets a modern remix and every meal feels like a little adventure. When she’s not cooking, she’s out exploring farmers’ markets, sketching new recipe ideas, or getting her hands dirty in a community garden.

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