Tiramisu Cupcakes Recipe

The Most Heavenly Tiramisu Cupcakes Recipe You’ll Ever Taste

Coffee lovers always find magic in this delightful tiramisu cupcakes recipe that brings Italian elegance right to your kitchen.

Rich espresso notes dance through soft, delicate layers of creamy mascarpone and light cake.

Each bite promises a delectable journey through classic dessert traditions with a modern twist.

Sweet cream cheese frosting adds luxurious dimensions to these charming mini treats.

Serving these sophisticated cupcakes at your next gathering, where friends will marvel at your baking skills.

Delicate ladyfinger crumbs and a gentle espresso drizzle create an irresistible texture that melts perfectly on your tongue.

Bake these cupcakes and watch pure culinary joy unfold before your eyes.

Best Pairings For Tiramisu Cupcakes

  • Pair with Robust Espresso: Serve these tiramisu cupcakes alongside a freshly brewed, strong espresso that matches the coffee-soaked essence of the dessert, enhancing the deep, rich flavors.
  • Complement with Sweet Dessert Wine: A small glass of Vin Santo or Marsala wine provides a delightful sweet counterpoint, echoing the traditional Italian tiramisu ingredients and adding a luxurious touch.
  • Match with Creamy Cappuccino: A frothy cappuccino creates a harmonious flavor profile, with its smooth milk and espresso base perfectly balancing the cupcake's intense coffee and mascarpone notes.
  • Enjoy with Dark Chocolate: A few squares of high-quality dark chocolate on the side amplifies the cocoa undertones, creating a sophisticated and indulgent dessert experience.

Tasty Spins On Tiramisu Cupcakes

  • Espresso Blast Cupcakes: Replace coffee liqueur with strong espresso shots for an intense coffee flavor that awakens your senses. Sprinkle dark chocolate espresso beans on top for extra crunch and caffeine kick.
  • Amaretto Dream Cupcakes: Swap coffee liqueur with amaretto liqueur for a sweet almond twist. Garnish with toasted almond slivers and a light dusting of powdered sugar for elegant presentation.
  • Rum-Infused Classic Cupcakes: Use dark rum instead of coffee liqueur to create a deeper, more complex flavor profile. Top with chocolate-covered coffee beans and a light cocoa powder sprinkle for sophisticated finish.
  • Mocha Hazelnut Cupcakes: Mix hazelnut liqueur into the coffee soak and add ground hazelnuts to the frosting. Decorate with chocolate-hazelnut praline crumbles for rich, nutty complexity.

Tiramisu Cupcakes Frequently Asked Questions

  • What makes tiramisu cupcakes different from regular cupcakes?

These cupcakes capture the classic Italian tiramisu flavors by soaking vanilla cupcakes in coffee and coffee liqueur, then topping with a luxurious mascarpone frosting. The coffee soak and mascarpone give them a rich, sophisticated twist on traditional cupcakes.

  • Can I make these cupcakes without coffee liqueur?

Absolutely! You can skip the coffee liqueur and just use strong brewed coffee. The cupcakes will still have a delicious coffee flavor. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, simply use plain coffee or even a coffee extract.

  • How do I get the best mascarpone frosting texture?

The key is to beat the mascarpone until smooth first, then gently fold in the whipped cream. Avoid overmixing, which can make the frosting grainy. Whip the cream to stiff peaks for the lightest, most luxurious frosting possible.

  • Is this recipe suitable for coffee lovers?

Definitely! These cupcakes are a dream for coffee enthusiasts. The coffee-soaked base and cocoa powder dusting provide an intense coffee flavor that mimics the classic tiramisu dessert, making them perfect for true coffee fans.

What Makes Tiramisu Cupcakes So Special

  • Infuse Coffee Magic: These cupcakes transform classic tiramisu into a portable, bite-sized dessert that captures the rich, bold espresso flavors in every delightful bite.
  • Creamy Dreamy Texture: The mascarpone frosting creates an incredibly smooth, luxurious topping that perfectly complements the tender, moist cupcake base with its light and airy consistency.
  • Elegant Party Pleaser: Perfect for sophisticated gatherings, these cupcakes offer a gourmet twist on traditional desserts that will impress guests with their beautiful presentation and complex flavor profile.
  • Simple Baking Adventure: Despite looking like a professional bakery creation, these cupcakes are surprisingly easy to make, allowing even novice bakers to create a show-stopping dessert with minimal kitchen skills.

Tiramisu Cupcakes Ingredient List

Cake Base Ingredients:
  • All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure and texture for the cupcake base.
  • Baking Powder: Helps the cupcakes rise and become light and fluffy.
  • Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the cupcake.
  • Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and creates a tender crumb.
  • Granulated Sugar: Sweetens and helps with the cake's texture.
  • Large Eggs: Bind ingredients and provide moisture.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and classic bakery flavor.
  • Milk: Ensures a moist and soft cupcake texture.
Coffee Soak Ingredients:
  • Brewed Coffee, Coffee Liqueur: Creates a classic tiramisu-style moisture and flavor.
  • Granulated Sugar: Balances and sweetens the coffee soak.
Frosting Ingredients:
  • Mascarpone Cheese, Heavy Cream: Provides a rich, creamy, and authentic Italian-style frosting.
  • Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and helps stabilize the frosting.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds subtle depth to the frosting.
Garnish Ingredients:
  • Cocoa Powder: Traditional tiramisu topping with a rich chocolate flavor.
  • Chocolate Shavings, Coffee Beans: Optional decorative elements that enhance presentation.

How To Whip Up Tiramisu Cupcakes

Step 1: Create Delectable Cupcake Base

Warm up the oven to 350°F. Line a cupcake pan with paper liners. In a mixing bowl, blend:
  • All-purpose flour
  • Baking powder
  • Salt

In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla extract. Gradually mix dry ingredients and milk into the butter mixture. Pour batter evenly into cupcake liners. Bake for 18-20 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow cupcakes to cool completely.

Step 2: Brew Intense Coffee Soak

Combine in a small bowl:
  • Freshly brewed espresso or strong coffee
  • Coffee liqueur
  • Granulated sugar

Stir until sugar dissolves completely.

Step 3: Infuse Cupcakes with Coffee Goodness

Poke multiple holes into each cooled cupcake using a toothpick. Gently drizzle coffee mixture over cupcakes, allowing liquid to seep into the cake.

Step 4: Whip Up Luxurious Mascarpone Frosting

In a large bowl, smooth out mascarpone cheese. In a separate bowl, whip together:
  • Heavy cream
  • Powdered sugar
  • Vanilla extract

Fold whipped cream into mascarpone until silky and well-combined.

Step 5: Decorate with Creamy Elegance

Pipe or spread mascarpone frosting generously over coffee-soaked cupcakes.

Step 6: Add Final Elegant Touches

Dust cupcake tops with cocoa powder. Sprinkle chocolate shavings or place a coffee bean on each cupcake for a sophisticated finish. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Helpful Tips For Baking Tiramisu Cupcakes

  • Brew Bold Coffee: Use strong, freshly brewed espresso or dark roast coffee for an intense, authentic tiramisu flavor that elevates the cupcake's taste profile.
  • Prevent Soggy Bottoms: Poke holes carefully and soak cupcakes sparingly to ensure moisture without turning the cake too wet or dense.
  • Chill for Optimal Texture: Refrigerate cupcakes for at least 30 minutes before serving to help frosting set and flavors meld together perfectly.
  • Swap Liqueur Wisely: Replace coffee liqueur with additional coffee or vanilla extract for a non-alcoholic version that still maintains rich depth.
  • Smooth Frosting Technique: Ensure mascarpone and cream are at similar temperatures to create a silky, lump-free frosting that spreads beautifully.

How To Keep Tiramisu Cupcakes Soft And Fresh

  • Refrigerate: Store cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Place a paper towel loosely over the top to prevent frosting from sticking to the cover.
  • Freeze: Wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 weeks. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Reheat: Let chilled cupcakes sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before enjoying. This helps restore the soft texture and allows the flavors to develop.
  • Best Enjoyed: Consume within 2-3 days for optimal taste and texture. The coffee-soaked cupcakes tend to get slightly soggy if stored too long.
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Tiramisu Cupcakes Recipe

Tiramisu Cupcakes Recipe


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4.6 from 22 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Silky Italian tiramisu cupcakes blend classic dessert magic with modern bakery charm. Coffee-soaked sponge and mascarpone cream create a delectable bite you’ll savor with pure Mediterranean delight.


Ingredients

Scale

Cupcake Dry Ingredients:

  • 1 ½ cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Cupcake Wet Ingredients:

  • ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup (120 ml) whole milk

Coffee Soak:

  • ½ cup (120 ml) brewed coffee or espresso, cooled
  • 1 tablespoon coffee liqueur (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

Mascarpone Frosting:

  • 8 ounces (225 g) mascarpone cheese, chilled
  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream, cold
  • ½ cup (60 g) powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Garnish:

  • Cocoa powder (for dusting)
  • Chocolate shavings or coffee beans (optional)

Instructions

  1. Craft the cupcake foundation by whisking flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium mixing vessel. In a spacious bowl, cream butter and sugar until the mixture transforms into a light, airy texture, approximately 2-3 minutes.
  2. Incorporate eggs individually, then blend in vanilla extract. Gradually alternate adding dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, ensuring a smooth, well-integrated batter. Mix until ingredients are just combined.
  3. Distribute batter evenly across 12 cupcake liners positioned in a prepared pan. Transfer to a preheated oven set at 350F (175C) and bake for 18-20 minutes, monitoring for a clean toothpick test.
  4. Allow cupcakes to cool completely on a wire rack. While cooling, prepare the coffee infusion by dissolving sugar in brewed coffee and optional coffee liqueur.
  5. Using a toothpick or narrow skewer, puncture multiple holes across the cupcake surfaces. Delicately drizzle the coffee mixture, permitting each cake to absorb the aromatic liquid.
  6. Whip mascarpone cheese until silky smooth in a large mixing bowl. In a separate container, vigorously whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
  7. Gently fold whipped cream into mascarpone, creating a luxurious, light frosting. Carefully pipe or spread the creamy mixture atop the coffee-soaked cupcakes.
  8. Elegantly dust cocoa powder across the frosted surfaces. Optional: Embellish with delicate chocolate shavings or a single coffee bean for sophisticated presentation.
  9. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to indulge in these decadent tiramisu-inspired cupcakes.

Notes

  • Customize coffee intensity by adjusting the strength of brewed coffee or using espresso for a more robust flavor profile.
  • Ensure mascarpone and heavy cream are cold for optimal whipping and stable frosting consistency.
  • Replace coffee liqueur with additional brewed coffee or vanilla extract for non-alcoholic version.
  • Achieve perfectly moist cupcakes by not overbaking and allowing them to cool completely before soaking with coffee mixture.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 300
  • Sugar: 24 g
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 11 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg
James Mitchell

James Mitchell

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Recipe Creation and Testing​, Fusion Cuisine​, Food Styling and Photography​, Culinary Education​

Education

Kendall College, Chicago, IL

  • Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in classic and modern cooking techniques, with a specialization in international cuisines.​

The Culinary Institute of America, Hyde Park, NY

  • Program: Advanced Certificate in Gastronomy
  • Focus: In-depth studies of global food cultures, flavor profiling, and innovative recipe development.​

James Mitchell is the founder and fearless flavor explorer at Cooking Crusade. With a degree in Culinary Arts from Kendall College and advanced training in global gastronomy from The Culinary Institute of America, James has spent over a decade perfecting the art of recipe creation. 

His background includes fine dining, private cheffing, and food styling, but his true joy comes from turning big ideas into doable recipes for home cooks. Every dish he shares is a mix of creativity, culture, and a little kitchen magic, built to bring excitement back to everyday meals.

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