Tiramisu Cupcakes Recipe
These elegant and indulgent Tiramisu Cupcakes combine the classic flavors of creamy mascarpone, espresso-soaked sponge, and cocoa powder into individual, easy-to-make servings. Perfect for any occasion, these cupcakes offer a rich, luscious experience with a simplified twist on traditional tiramisu in a convenient cupcake form.
- Author: Julia
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 cupcakes 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free (with substitution)
Cake Batter
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Espresso Soak
- 1/2 cup espresso or strong coffee
- 2 tablespoons Marsala wine or coffee liqueur (optional)
Mascarpone Frosting
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese, room temperature
- 3/4 cup heavy cream, chilled
- 1/4 cup sugar, or to taste
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Toppings
- Cocoa powder, for dusting
- Optional: shaved chocolate, chocolate curls, or cinnamon
- Prepare the Cupcake Batter: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with paper liners. Cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in vanilla extract. Sift in the flour and gently fold it into the batter just until combined to keep the cupcakes tender and airy.
- Bake and Cool the Cupcakes: Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and let cupcakes cool completely in the pan before removing.
- Brew the Espresso Soak: While the cupcakes cool, brew a strong espresso or coffee. Mix in Marsala wine or coffee liqueur if using. Set aside to cool slightly. This soak will be brushed over the cupcakes to infuse classic tiramisu flavor.
- Make the Mascarpone Frosting: Whip the chilled heavy cream until stiff peaks form. In a separate bowl, combine mascarpone cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until light and creamy, perfect for spreading or piping.
- Assemble Your Tiramisu Cupcakes: Using a brush, generously apply the espresso soak evenly over the top of each cooled cupcake. Then pipe or spread a thick layer of mascarpone frosting on top. Finish by dusting with cocoa powder or your choice of toppings such as shaved chocolate or cinnamon.
Notes
- Use fresh mascarpone cheese for the creamiest frosting; avoid substituting with cream cheese.
- Apply espresso soak gradually to prevent cupcakes from becoming soggy.
- Ensure butter, eggs, and mascarpone are at room temperature for smooth mixing.
- Chill frosting before piping to maintain neat designs.
- Choose quality espresso for the best flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cupcake
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: tiramisu cupcakes, mascarpone cupcakes, espresso cupcakes, Italian dessert, coffee cupcakes, easy tiramisu recipe