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Tiramisu Cupcakes Recipe

4.9 from 123 reviews

Tiramisu Cupcakes are a luxurious twist on the classic Italian dessert, combining espresso-infused moist cupcakes with luscious mascarpone frosting. These portable treats are soaked in a coffee and optional liqueur mixture, then topped with creamy frosting and dusted with cocoa powder for an elegant presentation. Perfect for special occasions or a sweet indulgence anytime.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cupcakes:

  • 1 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup espresso or strong brewed coffee, cooled

For the Coffee Soak:

  • 1/2 cup espresso or strong brewed coffee
  • 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)

For the Mascarpone Frosting:

  • 1 cup mascarpone cheese
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream

Garnish:

  • Cocoa powder
  • Chocolate curls or grated chocolate

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cupcakes: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate large bowl, cream together the granulated sugar and softened butter until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract. Mix in the sour cream and cooled espresso. Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined to avoid overmixing.
  2. Bake: Fill the cupcake liners about three-quarters full with the batter. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and allow cupcakes to cool completely before proceeding.
  3. Make the Coffee Soak: Combine the espresso and coffee liqueur (if using) in a small bowl. Pierce the top of each cooled cupcake several times with a fork and brush the coffee soak evenly over the cupcakes to infuse them with flavor.
  4. Prepare the Frosting: In a medium bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until well incorporated and light.
  5. Decorate and Serve: Using a piping bag or a spatula, spread or pipe the mascarpone frosting generously over each coffee-soaked cupcake. Dust the tops with cocoa powder and garnish with chocolate curls or grated chocolate for an elegant finish. Serve chilled for the best flavor experience.

Notes

  • Dust with Cocoa Powder just before serving to enhance visual appeal and mimic traditional tiramisu.
  • Garnish with Chocolate Shavings for extra indulgence and elegance.
  • Serve chilled to allow flavors to meld and frosting to set; remove from fridge 15-20 minutes prior to serving for best texture.
  • Pair cupcakes with a fresh espresso or espresso liqueur for an authentic Italian experience.
  • Store cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator, away from direct heat or sunlight, for up to 3-4 days; best within 2 days.
  • Freeze for up to 1 month by wrapping tightly and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
  • If frosting softens after refrigeration, gently re-whip briefly to restore consistency without overmixing.
  • To make gluten-free, use a certified gluten-free flour blend and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free certified.
  • For alcohol-free version, omit coffee liqueur and add extra vanilla or almond extract for flavor.

Keywords: tiramisu cupcakes, Italian dessert, espresso cupcakes, mascarpone frosting, coffee soaked cupcakes, Italian dessert cupcakes