Dreamy Tiramisu Cupcakes Recipe: Sweet Italian Bliss in Bites

Baking these delectable tiramisu cupcakes will transport you to a cozy Italian café with just one bite.

Layers of espresso-soaked sponge and creamy mascarpone create a miniature dessert masterpiece.

Sweet coffee notes dance across your palate, promising an indulgent experience.

Rich and velvety, these cupcakes blend traditional tiramisu flavors into a handheld treat.

Delicate textures and bold espresso undertones make each small cake a celebration of Italian culinary artistry.

Whipping up this recipe lets you craft an elegant dessert that impresses without complicated techniques.

Grab your apron and let the magic of these miniature delights begin!

Tiramisu Cupcakes Decadent And Flavorful Dessert Treat

  • Craft a Dessert Masterpiece: Transform classic tiramisu into adorable cupcake form, creating a stunning treat that combines traditional Italian flavors with modern baking creativity.
  • Impress Without Stress: Perfect for bakers of all skill levels, this recipe breaks down complex tiramisu techniques into simple, manageable steps that guarantee delicious results every time.
  • Versatile Party Pleaser: These cupcakes shine at gatherings, from casual family dinners to elegant dinner parties, offering a sophisticated dessert that looks and tastes incredibly impressive.
  • Coffee Lover's Dream: Packed with rich espresso flavor and a coffee liqueur kick, these cupcakes deliver an intense coffee experience that will delight caffeine enthusiasts and dessert fans alike.

Ingredients Needed To Bake Tiramisu Cupcakes

Cake Base Ingredients:
  • All-Purpose Flour: A fundamental ingredient that provides structure to the cupcake.
  • Baking Powder: This leavening agent helps the cupcakes rise and become light and fluffy.
  • Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the cupcake batter.
  • Butter: Adds richness and creates a smooth, tender texture in the cupcakes.
  • Granulated Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps in creating a soft cake texture.
  • Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the cupcake's structure.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds a classic, sweet flavor to the cupcake base.
  • Milk: Helps to create a moist and tender crumb in the cupcakes.
  • Cooled Coffee: Infuses a subtle coffee flavor into the cupcake batter.
Coffee Soak Ingredients:
  • Espresso, Coffee Liqueur: Provides an intense coffee flavor and moisture to the cupcakes.
  • Granulated Sugar: Balances the coffee's bitterness and adds sweetness to the soak.
Frosting Ingredients:
  • Mascarpone Cheese: Creates a rich, creamy base for the frosting with a smooth texture.
  • Heavy Cream: Adds lightness and helps achieve the perfect frosting consistency.
  • Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the frosting and helps it hold its shape.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor of the mascarpone frosting.
Optional Garnish:
  • Cocoa Powder, Chocolate Shavings: Adds visual appeal and complementary chocolate flavor to the cupcakes.

Stepwise Guide To Prepare Tiramisu Cupcakes

Step 1: Create Cupcake Batter

Warm up your oven to 350F (175C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.

Gather your ingredients:
  • Flour
  • Baking powder
  • Salt
  • Butter
  • Sugar
  • Eggs
  • Vanilla extract
  • Milk
  • Cooled coffee

Whisk dry ingredients in one bowl. In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until fluffy.

Add eggs one by one, mixing thoroughly after each. Stir in vanilla.

Gradually combine dry ingredients and milk, alternating and starting/ending with dry ingredients. Gently fold in cooled coffee.

Step 2: Bake Cupcakes

Pour batter evenly into liners. Bake for 18-20 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 3: Create Coffee Soak

Mix espresso, coffee liqueur, and sugar in a small bowl.

Poke holes in cooled cupcakes. Drizzle coffee mixture over cupcakes, allowing it to absorb.

Step 4: Whip Mascarpone Frosting

Combine mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla. Whisk until stiff peaks form.

Avoid overbeating to maintain perfect consistency.

Step 5: Decorate Cupcakes

Pipe or spread mascarpone frosting generously.

Dust with cocoa powder. Sprinkle chocolate shavings for extra elegance.

Step 6: Chill and Enjoy

Refrigerate cupcakes for 30 minutes to blend flavors. Serve alongside a rich coffee or espresso for the ultimate dessert experience.

Tips To Perfect Tiramisu Cupcakes Every Time

  • Poke multiple tiny holes in cupcake tops using a skewer to help the coffee soak penetrate deeper, ensuring each bite is rich with espresso flavor.
  • Whip mascarpone mixture carefully to avoid overbeating, which can make the frosting grainy or too stiff, maintaining a smooth and creamy consistency.
  • Mix batter just until ingredients are combined to keep cupcakes tender and moist, avoiding overmixing that can lead to dense, tough results.
  • Use high-quality espresso and coffee liqueur to elevate the tiramisu cupcake's authentic taste, creating a more sophisticated dessert experience.

Variations To Change Up Tiramisu Cupcakes

  • Gluten-Free Tiramisu Cupcakes: Replace wheat flour with almond or gluten-free flour blend, ensuring the same tender texture while accommodating wheat sensitivities.
  • Vegan Tiramisu Cupcakes: Substitute butter with coconut oil, eggs with flax eggs, mascarpone with cashew cream, and dairy milk with almond milk for a plant-based version.
  • Low-Sugar Tiramisu Cupcakes: Use monk fruit sweetener instead of sugar, reduce coffee liqueur, and opt for unsweetened cocoa powder to create a lighter, less caloric dessert option.
  • Mocha Chocolate Tiramisu Cupcakes: Add dark chocolate chips to the batter, incorporate cocoa powder into the cake mix, and use chocolate-infused coffee for an intensified chocolate experience.

Pairings To Serve With Tiramisu Cupcakes

  • Classic Italian espresso highlights the coffee notes in the cupcakes, creating a harmonious flavor profile that complements the dessert's intense coffee and mascarpone elements.
  • Select a Moscato d'Asti or Vin Santo to balance the cupcake's robust coffee flavor, adding a delicate sweetness that echoes the dessert's creamy texture and light sugar notes.
  • A smooth chocolate liqueur like Godiva or Baileys amplifies the cocoa undertones, creating a decadent taste experience that elevates the cupcake's complex flavor layers.

Storage Suggestions To Preserve Tiramisu Cupcakes

  • Store cupcakes in a sealed container for up to 3 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent frosting from sticking. Keep in the coldest part of the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
  • Wrap individual cupcakes tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Bring refrigerated cupcakes to room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the frosting and cake soggy. Gently warm in a preheated oven at 300°F for 5 minutes if desired.

FAQs

  • What is the key difference between regular cupcakes and Tiramisu Cupcakes?

These cupcakes combine classic cupcake elements with traditional tiramisu flavors by incorporating coffee soak and mascarpone frosting, giving them a rich, Italian dessert-inspired taste.

  • Can I make these cupcakes without coffee liqueur?

Yes, you can easily omit the coffee liqueur. Simply replace it with additional espresso or coffee to maintain the moisture and flavor profile of the cupcakes.

  • How do I achieve the perfect mascarpone frosting texture?

Whisk the ingredients carefully and stop beating once stiff peaks form. Avoid overbeating, which can make the frosting too thick or potentially separate.

Print
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Tiramisu Cupcakes Recipe


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4.8 from 15 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Indulgent tiramisu cupcakes blend Italian dessert magic with classic American baking, creating a delightful fusion of espresso-soaked sponge and creamy mascarpone frosting. Coffee-lovers and dessert enthusiasts will savor each luxurious bite of this irresistible sweet treat.


Ingredients

Scale

Cake Base:

  • 1 1/4 cups (156 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup (150 grams) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) milk

Liquid Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) brewed coffee, cooled
  • 1/3 cup (80 milliliters) brewed espresso or strong coffee
  • 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Frosting and Topping:

  • 1 cup (227 grams) mascarpone cheese, chilled
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) heavy cream, chilled
  • 1/2 cup (60 grams) powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Cocoa powder, for dusting
  • Chocolate shavings (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare cupcake batter by mixing dry ingredients separately from wet ingredients. Combine butter and sugar until creamy, then incorporate eggs and vanilla. Gradually fold in flour mixture alternating with milk, ensuring smooth consistency. Gently mix in cooled coffee.
  2. Preheat oven to 350F and line muffin tin with cupcake liners. Distribute batter evenly across 12 cups. Bake for 18-20 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
  3. Allow cupcakes to cool completely on wire rack. Create coffee soak by whisking espresso, coffee liqueur, and sugar until fully dissolved.
  4. Use skewer to puncture multiple holes across cupcake tops. Slowly drizzle coffee soak over each cupcake, allowing liquid to penetrate deeply.
  5. Whip mascarpone cheese with heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until achieving stiff, smooth peaks. Avoid overbeating to maintain proper texture.
  6. Apply mascarpone frosting generously using piping bag or spatula. Dust with cocoa powder and garnish with chocolate shavings for elegant presentation.
  7. Refrigerate cupcakes for minimum 30 minutes to enhance flavor melding. Serve chilled alongside espresso or coffee for optimal enjoyment.

Notes

  • Choose high-quality espresso or strong coffee for an authentic tiramisu flavor that elevates the entire cupcake experience.
  • Ensure mascarpone cheese is at room temperature to create a smooth, lump-free frosting that spreads beautifully.
  • Allow cupcakes to cool completely before soaking to prevent soggy bottoms and maintain a delicate cake texture.
  • Use a squeeze bottle or small spoon for precise coffee soak distribution, preventing oversaturation of the delicate cupcake base.
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 292 kcal
  • Sugar: 19 g
  • Sodium: 92 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 26 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 83 mg
Clara Bennett

Clara Bennett

Contributing Recipe Developer & Food Writer

Expertise

Baking and Pastry Development, Gluten-Free and Allergy-Friendly Recipe Creation, Culinary Storytelling and Food Journalism, Recipe Testing and Standardization, Southern Comfort Foods and Modern Twists

Education

Sullivan University – National Center for Hospitality Studies
Associate Degree in Culinary Arts

Focus: Baking and Pastry Arts, Recipe Testing, and Culinary Journalism.

Clara specialized in crafting desserts that blend classic Southern comfort with modern techniques, while developing strong writing skills to tell the story behind every dish.

Lane Community College (Certificate Program)
Certificate in Food Writing and Photography

Focus: Culinary storytelling, recipe formatting, food styling, and visual presentation.


Clara’s love of baking started young, powered by homemade pies, biscuits, and stories passed around the family table.
After earning her degree at Sullivan University and a food writing certificate at Lane Community College, she turned her passion into a craft: sharing recipes that are simple, soulful, and always full of heart.
She’s big on bold flavors, flexible ideas, and creating sweets that fit any table (yes, even if you’re gluten-free). When she’s not baking, you’ll find her wandering farmers’ markets, styling food for the next photo shoot, or working on her ever-growing recipe journal.

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