Name: Tiramisu Cupcakes Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups cake flour (or all-purpose flour); 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon espresso powder; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/2 cup light brown sugar; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs, room temperature; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup whole milk; 1/4 cup brewed espresso; 1/4 cup coffee liqueur (optional, substitute with more espresso if preferred); 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature; 8 ounces mascarpone cheese, room temperature; 4 cups powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (substitute with brewed espresso if desired); Cocoa powder, for dusting; Chocolate shavings (optional); Lady fingers (optional)

Jump to Recipe

If you adore the classic Italian dessert and want a fun, portable twist, these Tiramisu Cupcakes are an absolute must-try. Imagine fluffy, moist cupcakes infused with rich espresso, laced with coffee liqueur, and crowned with a luxuriously creamy mascarpone frosting. Every bite delivers the perfect harmony of coffee notes, subtle sweetness, and that delicate dusting of cocoa powder that makes tiramisu the beloved dessert it is. These cupcakes take the familiar flavors and textures of tiramisu and transform them into an elegant, individual treat that’s perfect for sharing with friends or indulging on your own. Trust me, once you try these Tiramisu Cupcakes, they’ll become a new favorite to make and savor again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting ready to make these Tiramisu Cupcakes is a breeze because the ingredients are straightforward yet essential. Each one plays a key role, from creating that tender cake base to the dreamy mascarpone frosting that defines the flavor.

Cake flour: Offers a light, delicate crumb—substitute with all-purpose flour if needed.
Baking powder: Helps the cupcakes rise perfectly and stay fluffy.
Espresso powder: Adds subtle coffee depth without overpowering the cake.
Kosher salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor complexity.
Unsalted butter (melted and room temperature): Provides richness and creaminess in both cake and frosting.
Light brown sugar: Gives a hint of molasses flavor and moistness to the cupcakes.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and frosting cleanly.
Large eggs: Add structure and moisture to the batter.
Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with warm, comforting notes.
Whole milk: Keeps the cake tender and moist.
Brewed espresso: Essential for that authentic coffee punch.
Coffee liqueur (optional): Infuses an adult twist and enhances coffee richness (can use extra espresso instead).
Mascarpone cheese: The star of the frosting, delivering that true tiramisu creaminess.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting smoothly.
Cocoa powder: For dusting, it adds that signature tiramisu finish.
Chocolate shavings (optional): Adds a touch of elegance and texture on top.
Lady fingers (optional): For garnish and extra tiramisu authenticity.

How to Make Tiramisu Cupcakes

Step 1: Prepare Your Batter

Begin by whisking together your dry ingredients: cake flour, baking powder, espresso powder, and kosher salt in a large bowl. This ensures your cupcake has the perfect rise and coffee-infused base flavor in every bite. Then, in another bowl, combine melted butter with both sugars, eggs, and vanilla extract until fully incorporated and smooth. This mixture sweetens and enriches the cupcakes beautifully.

Step 2: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add half of the dry ingredients to your wet batter, stirring gently just until partially combined. Pour in the whole milk, followed by the remaining flour mixture, and mix carefully until the batter is just smooth. Be mindful not to overmix; you want a thin yet tender batter that bakes into moist cupcakes.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a 12-cup cupcake pan with liners. Pour about a quarter cup of batter into each liner—this fills them halfway, allowing enough room for rising without spilling over. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, transfer the cupcakes to a wire rack to cool slightly.

Step 4: Espresso and Coffee Liqueur Soak

While the cupcakes are still warm, brush the tops generously with a mixture of brewed espresso and coffee liqueur. This soak is where your cupcakes get their signature tiramisu moistness and that irresistible coffee kick. Use about 1 to 2 teaspoons per cupcake, and be careful not to soak them too much—just enough to enhance flavor without sogginess.

Step 5: Prepare the Mascarpone Frosting

In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat softened unsalted butter and mascarpone cheese until completely smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix on low speed until combined. Finally, incorporate coffee liqueur for that perfect tiramisu essence, then whip on high speed for 2-3 minutes until the frosting is light, fluffy, and irresistibly silky.

Step 6: Frost and Garnish Your Cupcakes

Spread or pipe the mascarpone frosting generously over your cooled cupcakes. For the finishing touch, dust each one with cocoa powder and sprinkle with chocolate shavings. If wanted, add a lady finger on top for that classic tiramisu flair and a delightful crunch. These little artistic details truly elevate your Tiramisu Cupcakes into a show-stopping dessert.

How to Serve Tiramisu Cupcakes

Garnishes

For serving, simplicity is your friend. A light dusting of cocoa powder immediately signals tiramisu’s signature flavor, while delicate chocolate shavings add elegance and texture contrast. If you want to make things extra special, a small lady finger or a chocolate-covered espresso bean on top can turn each cupcake into a conversation starter.

Side Dishes

Pair your Tiramisu Cupcakes with a scoop of vanilla gelato or a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream to complement the rich coffee and creamy notes. A fresh fruit salad with citrus or berries works wonderfully to cut through the decadent sweetness and adds a refreshing balance to your dessert spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the cupcake liners! Present these delights in elegant glass jars or mini trifle dishes, layering crumbled cupcakes with mascarpone cream and espresso soak for a deconstructed tiramisu effect. You can also arrange them on a tiered dessert tray for parties, adding small espresso cups alongside to hint at the flavor inspiration behind these cupcakes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Tiramisu Cupcakes fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The mascarpone frosting is delicate and best chilled; plus, chilling helps the coffee flavors to deepen and mingle even more. They’ll stay delicious for up to 3 days when properly stored.

Freezing

You can freeze unfrosted cupcakes by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge before adding frosting. Avoid freezing frosted cupcakes, as the mascarpone frosting can separate and lose its lovely texture.

Reheating

Because these cupcakes are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, reheating isn’t usually necessary. If you prefer to warm them slightly, remove the frosting and gently warm the cupcake base in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds, then refrost once cooled to keep the frosting smooth and fresh.

FAQs

Can I use regular coffee instead of espresso powder?

Yes, brewed strong coffee can work as a substitute, although espresso powder provides a more concentrated coffee flavor. Adjust the amount so you don’t add too much liquid to the batter.

Is it necessary to use coffee liqueur?

Not at all! Coffee liqueur enhances the richness and provides a boozy kick, but you can substitute it with extra brewed espresso to keep the cupcakes non-alcoholic without sacrificing flavor.

How do I make sure the cupcakes don’t get soggy with the espresso soak?

Brush the espresso and liqueur mixture lightly, using about 1 to 2 teaspoons per cupcake, and do it while the cupcakes are still warm. This helps the liquid absorb evenly without turning the cake mushy.

Can I make the mascarpone frosting ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the frosting a day in advance and keep it refrigerated. Before frosting your cupcakes, let the frosting come to room temperature and give it a quick whip to restore its fluffy texture.

What can I use if I can’t find mascarpone cheese?

Mascarpone is essential for the authentic tiramisu taste and texture, but you can substitute with a mix of cream cheese and heavy cream or full-fat ricotta for a similar result, though the flavor will be slightly different.

Final Thoughts

There is something incredibly joyful about turning a classic dessert into cupcake form, and these Tiramisu Cupcakes truly capture all the magic of tiramisu in a charming little package. They’re rich yet airy, coffee-forward but balanced, and dressed up with creamy frosting and cocoa dust. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because you deserve a delicious treat, I promise these cupcakes will become one of your absolute favorite recipes. Give them a try and watch everyone’s eyes light up with delight!

Tiramisu Cupcakes Recipe

★★★★★

5.3 from 24 reviews

Author: lilan
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 12 cupcakes 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Tiramisu Cupcakes combine the rich flavors of classic tiramisu in a convenient cupcake form. Moist espresso-soaked cupcakes are topped with a smooth mascarpone frosting, dusted with cocoa powder, and optionally garnished with chocolate shavings and lady fingers for a delightful Italian-inspired dessert treat.

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup cupcake pan with cupcake liners to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together cake flour, baking powder, espresso powder, and kosher salt to combine all the dry components uniformly.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the melted butter with light brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Combine Batter: Stir about half of the dry flour mixture into the wet mixture, then incorporate the milk, followed by the remainder of the flour mixture. Mix until fully combined; expect the batter to be thin.
Fill Cupcake Liners: Pour approximately 1/4 cup of batter into each cupcake liner so they are about halfway full for proper rising.
Bake: Bake cupcakes in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes or until a cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Soak: Remove cupcakes from the oven, cool on a wire rack. Mix brewed espresso and coffee liqueur for soaking. While cupcakes are warm, brush the tops with 1-2 teaspoons of espresso mixture to enhance tiramisu flavor and moisture without making them soggy.
Prepare Mascarpone Frosting: Using a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, cream softened butter and mascarpone cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and beat on slow until incorporated. Add coffee liqueur then beat on high speed for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy.
Frost Cupcakes: Once cupcakes are completely cooled, frost generously with mascarpone frosting.
Garnish: Lightly dust the frosted cupcakes with cocoa powder, sprinkle chocolate shavings if desired, and garnish with lady fingers for an authentic tiramisu touch.

Notes

If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, substitute coffee liqueur with additional brewed espresso in both soaking mixture and frosting.
Ensure mascarpone and butter are at room temperature for smooth, lump-free frosting.
Brush the espresso mixture lightly to avoid soggy cupcakes while still infusing rich coffee flavor.
Use high-quality espresso powder and brewed coffee to deepen the authentic tiramisu taste.
Lady fingers garnish adds an elegant presentation but is optional.
For a gluten-free version, substitute cake flour with gluten-free flour blend designed for cakes.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian-inspired