Mini Tiramisu Cups bring a fun twist to the traditional Italian tiramisu. They are small and easy to eat, with layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone. On top, there’s a light dusting of cocoa powder. These cups let you enjoy all the flavors of traditional tiramisu without the fuss of cutting and serving. They are perfect for parties, special gatherings, or simply for treating yourself to something sweet at home.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect Portions: Just grab a cup and dig in—no need for cutting pieces.
- Quick and Simple: There is no need to bake; just assemble the ingredients.
- Classic Ingredients: Every cup is a delicious mix of mascarpone cheese, coffee-soaked ladyfingers, and cocoa powder.
- Make in Advance: These are easy to prepare ahead of time, allowing you to set them up whenever it’s convenient.
Ingredients Needed
| Ingredient | Measure |
|---|---|
| For the Coffee Mixture: | |
| Brewed espresso or strong coffee (cooled) | 1 cup |
| Coffee liqueur (optional) | 2 tablespoons |
| For the Cream Layer: | |
| Mascarpone cheese (softened) | 8 ounces |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Granulated sugar | 1/3 cup |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| For Assembly: | |
| Ladyfingers (halved) | 12 |
| Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting) | As needed |
| Dark chocolate shavings (optional) | As needed |
How to Make Mini Tiramisu Cups
- Prepare the Coffee Mix: Take a shallow bowl and mix brewed espresso with coffee liqueur if you want to use it. Let the mixture cool.
- Make the Mascarpone Cream: In one bowl, beat mascarpone cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture.
- Assemble the Cups:
- Quickly dip ladyfinger halves in the coffee mix for 1 to 2 seconds.
- Place one dipped ladyfinger at the bottom of each cup.
- Add a layer of mascarpone cream on top of the ladyfinger.
- Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfinger and cream.
- Finish & Chill: Sprinkle cocoa powder over the top and refrigerate the cups for at least 4 hours. For the best results, leave them in the fridge overnight.
- Serve & Enjoy: Before serving, you can add dark chocolate shavings on top if you like.
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Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: High-quality mascarpone and freshly brewed coffee enhance the flavor.
- Don’t Over-Soak Ladyfingers: A quick dip is enough to absorb flavor without becoming soggy.
- Chill for Best Results: Letting the tiramisu cups rest overnight intensifies the flavors.
- Layer Neatly: Use a piping bag for the mascarpone mixture to create clean, even layers.
Variations
- Chocolate Tiramisu Cups: Add a layer of melted chocolate between the cream layers.
- Berry Twist: Incorporate raspberries or strawberries for a fruity contrast.
- Nutty Delight: Sprinkle crushed pistachios or almonds for added texture.
- Alcohol-Free Version: Skip the coffee liqueur and use a coffee-flavored syrup instead.
- White Chocolate Version: Replace cocoa powder with grated white chocolate for a sweeter twist.
FAQs
How long do Mini Tiramisu Cups last in the fridge?
Mini Tiramisu Cups stay fresh for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Can I make Mini Tiramisu Cups without coffee?
Yes! Substitute the coffee with hot chocolate or a sweetened milk mixture for a caffeine-free version.
Can I use cream cheese instead of mascarpone?
Yes, but mascarpone provides the authentic creamy texture and rich flavor of traditional tiramisu.
Are Mini Tiramisu Cups freezer-friendly?
It’s best to enjoy them fresh, but you can freeze them for up to one month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Enjoy this easy, elegant dessert!
Tiramisu Cups
Mini Tiramisu Cups are a delicious, no-bake dessert featuring layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone, and cocoa powder. Perfectly portioned and ideal for entertaining, these bite-sized treats offer all the indulgence of traditional tiramisu in a convenient cup.
Ingredients
For the Coffee Mixture:
- 1 cup brewed espresso or strong coffee cooled
- 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur optional
For the Cream Layer:
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese softened
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Assembly:
- 12 ladyfingers halved
- Unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting
- Dark chocolate shavings optional
Instructions
- Prepare a coffee mixture with espresso and liqueur.
- Whip mascarpone with sugar and vanilla, then fold in whipped cream.
- Dip ladyfingers in coffee and layer with mascarpone cream in cups.
- Repeat layers, dust with cocoa, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
- Serve chilled, garnished with chocolate shavings if desired.