Tiramisu Cupcakes Recipe

If you love the classic flavors of Italian tiramisu but want a portable, bite-sized twist, this Tiramisu Cupcakes Recipe is about to become your new favorite dessert. Each cupcake captures that luscious coffee-soaked, mascarpone-infused magic in a neat, rich package that’s perfect for sharing at parties or indulging as a quietly decadent treat. Soft, fluffy cupcakes embrace a smooth mascarpone cream frosting dusted with cocoa powder, making every bite a celebration of creamy, coffee-kissed delight. Trust me, once you try this Tiramisu Cupcakes Recipe, you’ll keep coming back for just one more!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients might seem simple, but they are the heart and soul of this Tiramisu Cupcakes Recipe. Each one plays a crucial role—from creating that tender crumb to infusing the rich coffee flavor and providing the velvety frosting that dreams are made of. Having quality essentials will truly elevate the final cupcakes.

• All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups / 213g): The base for your cupcake’s tender yet sturdy structure.
• Baking powder (1 1/2 teaspoons): Helps your cupcakes rise perfectly fluffy.
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances and enhances the sweet flavors.
• Unsalted butter (8 tablespoons / 113g, room temperature): Adds richness and moisture for a soft crumb.
• Granulated sugar (3/4 cup + 2 tablespoons / 175g): Sweetens while helping the cupcakes achieve a lovely golden color.
• Eggs (1 large egg and 2 large yolks, room temperature): Bind ingredients together and contribute to moisture and richness.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Elevates the flavor with subtle warmth and depth.
• Milk (1/3 cup / 80ml, room temperature): Creates a tender batter and helps dissolve the coffee flavor.
• Buttermilk (1/3 cup / 80ml, room temperature): Adds tangy undertones and keeps cupcakes moist.
• Instant espresso powder (1 1/2 tablespoons): The key to that signature coffee kick in every bite.
• Mascarpone cheese (8 oz / 227g): The luscious base for the creamy frosting that embodies tiramisu’s richness.
• Powdered sugar (2/3 cup / 80g): Sweetens the mascarpone frosting to silky perfection.
• Heavy cream (1 cup / 235ml): Whipped into soft peaks to lighten and add a fluffy texture to the frosting.
• Cocoa powder (1 tablespoon): For dusting on top, creating that classic tiramisu finish.

How to Make Tiramisu Cupcakes Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dry Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a muffin tin with cupcake liners. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This dry mix ensures even distribution of leavening agents and seasoning in your cupcakes.

Step 2: Dissolve the Espresso

In a small bowl, stir the instant espresso powder into the milk until completely dissolved. This step is crucial because it integrates the coffee flavor smoothly into the batter, avoiding any gritty texture.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a mixer, beat the room-temperature butter with the granulated sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale. This aeration is key for a tender, airy cupcake texture that melts in your mouth.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

One at a time, beat in the large egg and then the two large egg yolks, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract to round out the flavor profile with its warming notes.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients Alternately

Begin to add the dry flour mixture and the espresso-infused milk alternately to the butter mixture, starting and finishing with the dry ingredients. Mixing just until combined prevents overworking the batter, which keeps cupcakes tender rather than dense.

Step 6: Add Buttermilk and Final Mix

Gently fold in the buttermilk. The acidity here reacts with the baking powder and enriches the flavor while keeping the cupcakes moist.

Step 7: Fill and Bake

Divide the batter evenly into the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full to leave room for rising. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Transfer to a wire rack and let them cool completely before frosting.

Step 8: Make the Mascarpone Frosting

Beat the mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream to soft peaks, then gently fold it into the mascarpone mixture. This step makes the frosting airy and light while retaining that luxurious tang.

Step 9: Frost and Dust

Frost each cooled cupcake generously with the mascarpone cream. Finish by dusting cocoa powder over the top for that signature tiramisu look and flavor. Chill before serving if you like your cupcakes with a slightly firmer frosting.

How to Serve Tiramisu Cupcakes Recipe

Garnishes

While the classic dusting of cocoa powder is absolutely perfect, you can also add a light sprinkle of finely grated dark chocolate or a small coffee bean on top to elevate the visual appeal. Fresh berries like raspberries also add a pop of color and a hint of tartness that pairs beautifully.

Side Dishes

Serve these cupcakes with a rich espresso or a creamy cappuccino to echo the coffee notes. A scoop of vanilla gelato or a drizzle of chocolate sauce also complements the creamy textures and layers of flavor in the cupcakes wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your Tiramisu Cupcakes Recipe on a tiered dessert stand for events or parties. You can also pack them individually in clear treat bags tied with twine for charming homemade gifts. Another delightful way is to layer deconstructed cupcake components in small jars for a trendy “cupcake-in-a-jar” presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Because of the mascarpone frosting, they are best enjoyed within 3 days to maintain freshness and texture.

Freezing

You can freeze the cupcakes without frosting for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before frosting and serving for the best taste and texture.

Reheating

Tiramisu cupcakes are best served chilled or at room temperature, so reheating is not recommended. If you prefer, take them out of the fridge about 30 minutes before serving to let the frosting soften slightly.

FAQs

Can I use regular coffee instead of espresso powder?

While you can substitute brewed strong coffee, espresso powder is concentrated and dissolves better, ensuring a more intense coffee flavor without adding extra liquid that could affect the cupcake texture.

Is mascarpone cheese necessary for this recipe?

Yes, mascarpone cheese has a unique creamy tanginess essential to the classic tiramisu flavor. Using a substitute may alter the frosting’s texture and taste significantly.

Can these cupcakes be made dairy-free?

This recipe relies heavily on dairy for flavor and texture, especially with mascarpone and heavy cream. While you could try substitutes, the outcome may not capture the authentic tiramisu experience.

How long do Tiramisu Cupcakes stay fresh?

Because of the mascarpone cream frosting, these cupcakes stay fresh for up to 3 days when refrigerated in an airtight container. Beyond that, texture and flavor may begin to degrade.

Can I make the frosting ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mascarpone frosting a day before and keep it refrigerated. Just give it a gentle stir before frosting your cupcakes to restore its creamy texture.

Final Thoughts

There is something incredibly satisfying about combining the treasured flavors of tiramisu into these charming cupcakes. This Tiramisu Cupcakes Recipe is not just a dessert; it’s an invitation to savor every handful of coffee-infused, creamy bliss. I cannot wait for you to try making these at home and watch them disappear at your next gathering. Enjoy the journey of baking and taste the love in every bite!

Print