Tiramisu Cupcakes Recipe

If you adore the classic Italian dessert but want it in perfectly portioned, hand-held form, these Tiramisu Cupcakes are about to become your new go-to treat. Imagine light, fluffy cupcakes soaking up fragrant coffee and a touch of liqueur, all crowned with a cloud of ultra-creamy mascarpone frosting and a delicate dusting of cocoa powder. Every bite delivers that iconic tiramisu experience—layered with flavor and just the right amount of decadence. Whether for a special gathering or a personal pick-me-up, Tiramisu Cupcakes offer all the sophistication of your favorite dessert in a fun, irresistible package.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Whipping up these cupcakes is pleasantly straightforward, and each ingredient plays an important role in creating that signature tiramisu flavor and luscious texture. Don’t skip or substitute these essentials—they’re what elevate the cupcakes and set them apart from your run-of-the-mill sweets!

• All-purpose flour: Provides the perfect, tender structure for the cupcakes so they’re sturdy yet soft.
• Baking powder: Ensures the cupcakes rise nicely and stay light and fluffy.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and amps up all the other flavors.
• Unsalted butter (softened): Gives richness and a subtle, buttery note to the cupcake base.
• Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps the butter cream perfectly for an airy texture.
• Large eggs: Bind everything together and make the crumb super tender.
• Vanilla extract: Lends warm depth and rounds out the flavors.
• Whole milk: Makes the cupcakes moist without being heavy—just right for soaking in the coffee mixture.
• Strong brewed coffee (cooled): The star of the soak, it infuses the cupcakes with authentic tiramisu flavor.
• Coffee liqueur or dark rum (optional): Adds a grown-up edge and depth—skip if you want an alcohol-free version.
• Mascarpone cheese (softened): The signature creamy, velvety element in the frosting, essential for that classic tiramisu taste.
• Heavy whipping cream: Whipped with mascarpone for a billowy, decadent frosting.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens and smooths out the frosting beautifully.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder: For a finishing dusting that ties everything together visually and flavor-wise.

How to Make Tiramisu Cupcakes

Step 1: Prepare the Cupcake Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners. In one bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt—this ensures even distribution and a fluffy crumb. In another bowl, cream your softened butter and sugar until pale and fluffy; this step makes for tender cupcakes. Beat in the eggs one at a time, add vanilla, then alternate mixing in flour and milk until just combined. Over-mixing can make cupcakes tough, so a gentle hand here pays off.

Step 2: Bake to Perfection

Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Pop them in the oven and bake for 18–20 minutes, just until a toothpick comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This cooling time ensures the cupcakes will easily handle their coffee soak later.

Step 3: Soak with Coffee Mixture

Once cooled, prepare your coffee soak by stirring together strong brewed coffee, sugar, and, if you like, a shot of coffee liqueur or dark rum. Using a skewer or toothpick, poke small holes in the tops of the cupcakes. Gently spoon the coffee mixture onto each one, letting it slowly seep in—this is what gives Tiramisu Cupcakes their unmistakable flair, marrying sponge and soak into one delicious bite.

Step 4: Make the Mascarpone Frosting

In a chilled bowl, beat the mascarpone, heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until thick and fluffy, forming stiff peaks. This frosting is key—it should be cloud-like and rich, not runny. If you have a piping bag, swirl it on for bakery-style glamour; otherwise, a generous swirl with a spoon still looks (and tastes) spectacular.

Step 5: Finish with Cocoa Dust

Right before serving, dust the tops with unsweetened cocoa powder using a fine-mesh sieve. This simple step adds drama and that unmistakable tiramisu signature—be generous for extra flair, or go for a delicate sprinkle if you prefer. Now they’re ready to dazzle!

How to Serve Tiramisu Cupcakes

Garnishes

The crowning touch for these Tiramisu Cupcakes is a snowy sprinkle of cocoa powder, but you can get even more creative. Try topping each cupcake with a chocolate-covered espresso bean, a few chocolate shavings, or even a swirl of caramel if you’re feeling decadent. Edible gold dust or little curls of dark chocolate also make these cupcakes look party-ready with almost no extra effort.

Side Dishes

While Tiramisu Cupcakes easily steal the show on their own, they also work beautifully alongside a scoop of vanilla gelato, a small shot of espresso, or a platter of fresh berries. Serving them with a fruit salad can cut through the richness, and even a crisp Prosecco or cappuccino makes an excellent companion on special occasions.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation is half the fun! Scatter the Tiramisu Cupcakes on a tiered cake stand for a celebration, or arrange them in a neat grid on a rustic wooden board if going for cozy vibes. For individual flair, serve each cupcake in a decorative teacup or wrap them with pretty ribbon. Mini flags or custom toppers can add a playful touch, especially for birthdays and showers.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Tiramisu Cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This keeps the mascarpone frosting and the delicate coffee-soaked sponge fresh for up to three days. The flavors actually get even better as they sit and mingle in the fridge, so don’t hesitate to bake a day in advance!

Freezing

If you want to freeze the cupcakes, it’s best to do so before they’re frosted. Let the cupcakes cool, skip the soak and frosting, and wrap them well in plastic and foil. They’ll keep beautifully for up to two months. Defrost at room temperature, then proceed with the coffee soak and mascarpone frosting just before serving so everything tastes perfectly fresh.

Reheating

Since Tiramisu Cupcakes are meant to be served chilled, reheating isn’t necessary. However, if you’ve stored them in the coldest part of your fridge or want to take off the chill, simply let the cupcakes rest at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving. This brings out the smoothest, creamiest mascarpone texture and lets the flavors shine.

FAQs

Can I make Tiramisu Cupcakes without alcohol?

Absolutely! Just leave out the coffee liqueur or rum in the soak and add a splash of vanilla extract instead. You’ll still get that classic tiramisu flavor with zero booze, making these cupcakes family friendly.

Can I use cream cheese instead of mascarpone?

You can swap in full-fat cream cheese if mascarpone is hard to find, though the flavor will be slightly tangier. For the most authentic Tiramisu Cupcakes, mascarpone is best, but cream cheese offers a delicious—and slightly sturdier—alternative.

How do I keep the cupcake from getting soggy?

Be careful not to over-soak! Use a spoon to drizzle the coffee mixture onto the cupcakes, allowing time for it to absorb, rather than pouring it all at once. Aim for moist, not mushy, and your cupcakes will have the perfect tiered effect.

What if I don’t have a piping bag for the frosting?

No worries at all! Simply use a spoon or spatula to swirl generous heaps of mascarpone frosting onto your cupcakes. These treats are just as delicious without fancy tools, and a rustic touch can be totally charming.

Can I make Tiramisu Cupcakes in advance for a party?

Yes! They’re fantastic make-ahead desserts. Complete the cupcakes a day before your event, keep them chilled, and dust with cocoa powder at the last minute for the freshest look and taste. They’ll wow your guests and make entertaining a breeze.

Final Thoughts

If you’re in the mood for a true showstopper dessert that’s every bit as fun to eat as it is to share, these Tiramisu Cupcakes deserve a spot at your next gathering. Give them a try—you’ll fall in love with their elegant looks, bold flavor, and unforgettable texture.

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