If you’re craving a little something sweet, these Tiramisu Cupcakes are about to steal the show! Imagine the soft, coffee-soaked layers of a traditional tiramisu, but now in the form of a cupcake. Yes, you read that right. It’s everything you love about the iconic Italian dessert but in a perfectly portable, bite-sized treat. Rich mascarpone frosting, a hint of espresso, and a little cocoa powder dusting – they’re as dreamy as they sound. Trust me, you’re going to want to try this one. Let’s dive into why you’ll fall head over heels for these cupcakes!

Why You’ll Love Tiramisu Cupcakes

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, surprising a friend with a sweet treat, or simply indulging yourself (because why not?), this cupcake version of tiramisu is sure to make an impression. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Perfect for any occasion. From casual family dinners to festive gatherings, these Tiramisu Cupcakes will always be a hit. You’ll find yourself bringing these to every event – they’re that good!
Decadent yet light: Tiramisu usually feels like a heavy dessert, but these cupcakes are the perfect balance. They’re indulgent, yet light enough to enjoy as an afternoon treat.
Quick and Easy: You don’t need to be a pastry chef to pull these off! With simple steps and easy-to-find ingredients, these cupcakes are beginner-friendly, so don’t be intimidated.
Crowd-Pleasing: Let’s be honest, who doesn’t love tiramisu? These cupcakes are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and they make the perfect handheld version of a classic dessert.
Customizable: Want to give them an extra twist? You can add a little more coffee flavor, or drizzle them with chocolate ganache for a little something special. The possibilities are endless!

Ingredients in Tiramisu Cupcakes

Let’s break down the ingredients that make these cupcakes an unforgettable treat. You’ll be surprised by how simple the components are:

All-Purpose Flour: The base for our cupcakes, creating the perfect, light texture.
Baking Powder: Helps give our cupcakes just the right rise without being too dense.
Eggs: These add moisture and richness to the cupcakes.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetness in every bite—because we’re making cupcakes, after all!
Butter: Adds a lovely richness to the batter for that melt-in-your-mouth feeling.
Vanilla Extract: A little boost of flavor that pairs beautifully with the coffee and mascarpone.
Espresso: The star of the show! A small amount of espresso or strong coffee gives these cupcakes that signature tiramisu flavor.
Mascarpone Cheese: We’re keeping it traditional here with the creamy, tangy flavor that makes tiramisu so irresistible.
Heavy Cream: Whipped into the mascarpone to create that luscious frosting.
Cocoa Powder: For dusting on top to give it that finishing touch of tiramisu magic.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s get started on these heavenly cupcakes!

Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the cupcakes bake evenly and come out perfect every time.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. This is your dry mixture.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a separate bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step is key for that soft, moist cupcake texture.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Mix until combined, making sure not to overbeat.

Add Dry Ingredients

Gradually add your dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the espresso or coffee. Mix until just combined.

Bake

Spoon the batter into lined cupcake tins, filling each about 2/3 full. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Frosting

In a bowl, beat together mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy. If you like a little extra coffee flavor, add a splash of coffee liqueur or espresso.

Assemble the Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes are cooled, frost them generously with the mascarpone mixture. Dust with cocoa powder and maybe even a little extra coffee or chocolate for that extra wow factor!

Serve and Enjoy

Serve these cupcakes with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or on their own. They’re perfect for sharing (or not!). Enjoy every delicious bite!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12
Calories per serving: 250

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve Tiramisu Cupcakes

These cupcakes are a treat on their own, but here are a few ways to elevate your dessert experience:

Coffee Pairing: Pair these cupcakes with a hot espresso or cappuccino for that full Italian café experience.
Fresh Berries: Fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries add a burst of color and flavor alongside the richness of the cupcakes.
Extra Cocoa: For a little extra flair, sprinkle a bit more cocoa powder on top just before serving.
Whipped Cream: If you want to go all-out indulgent, a little whipped cream on top would be amazing too!

Additional Tips

Prep Ahead: You can bake the cupcakes a day ahead of time. Just store them in an airtight container, and frost them when you’re ready to serve.
Coffee Flavor: If you like a stronger coffee flavor, you can drizzle some coffee syrup over the cupcakes before frosting.
Dietary Adjustments: You can swap out the mascarpone for a dairy-free version if you’re catering to dietary needs. Coconut cream works wonderfully as a replacement.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They taste even better the next day!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use regular coffee instead of espresso?
A1: Absolutely! If you don’t have espresso, regular strong coffee works just as well.

Q2: Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?
A2: Yes! You can bake the cupcakes a day in advance and frost them just before serving.

Q3: How do I store leftover cupcakes?
A3: Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They taste even better the next day!

Q4: Can I freeze these cupcakes?
A4: Yes, you can freeze the un-frosted cupcakes for up to 1 month. Just make sure they’re wrapped tightly to preserve freshness.

Q5: How do I make the frosting fluffier?
A5: To make the frosting fluffier, beat the mascarpone and heavy cream longer, or add a touch more heavy cream if needed.

Q6: Can I add more coffee flavor?
A6: Of course! You can add a splash of coffee liqueur or extra espresso to the frosting for a stronger flavor.

Q7: What’s the best way to serve these cupcakes?
A7: These cupcakes pair perfectly with a strong coffee or cappuccino. They’re also fantastic with a dollop of whipped cream on top!

Q8: Can I make these gluten-free?
A8: Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure to follow the instructions on the blend for best results.

Q9: Can I use whipped cream instead of mascarpone for the frosting?
A9: Whipped cream can work, but the mascarpone gives a richer flavor and texture. If you’re looking for a lighter frosting, whipped cream is a good option.

Q10: Can I double this recipe?
A10: Absolutely! Just double all the ingredients and you’ll be set to make even more delicious cupcakes for a crowd.

Conclusion

Tiramisu Cupcakes are the perfect fusion of two beloved desserts—tiramisu and cupcakes—into one decadent, bite-sized treat. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them on your own, they’re sure to be a hit every time. With their fluffy texture, rich coffee flavor, and creamy mascarpone frosting, these cupcakes are a delightful way to indulge. So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and get ready for a sweet moment of joy!