These Tiramisu Cupcakes are everything you love about the classic Italian dessert—espresso-soaked cake, creamy mascarpone frosting, and a dusting of cocoa—all in a convenient handheld form.
Perfect for any celebration or an elegant treat at home!
Why You’ll Love These Tiramisu Cupcakes
Authentic tiramisu flavor in cupcake form
Light yet rich texture with creamy frosting
Perfect for parties and gatherings
Easy to make ahead for convenience
Customizable – alcohol-free or gluten-free options available
Elegant presentation for any occasion
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
For the Cupcakes:
All-purpose flour – base for soft, fluffy cupcakes
Baking powder and soda – for lift
Unsalted butter – for richness
Granulated sugar – sweetens the batter
Eggs – add structure and moisture
Vanilla extract – enhances flavor
Sour cream – keeps the cupcakes moist
Espresso or strong brewed coffee – infuses bold flavor
For the Coffee Soak:
Espresso or coffee – deepens the tiramisu flavor
Coffee liqueur – optional, for a classic twist
For the Frosting:
Mascarpone cheese – creamy and rich
Powdered sugar – smooth sweetness
Heavy whipping cream – makes frosting light and fluffy
Vanilla extract – for depth
Garnish:
Cocoa powder – classic tiramisu topping
Chocolate curls – optional, for elegance
Pro Tips Before You Start
Use cooled espresso to prevent soggy cupcakes
Don’t overmix the batter to keep cupcakes tender
Chill frosting ingredients for best texture
Poke the cupcakes gently for an even coffee soak
Dust with cocoa powder just before serving for a fresh look
How to Make Tiramisu Cupcakes
Step 1: Prepare the cupcake batter
Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
Whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Step 2: Cream butter and sugar
In a large bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla.
Step 3: Combine wet and dry
Mix sour cream and espresso into the wet ingredients.
Gradually add the dry mixture, mixing until just combined.
Step 4: Bake
Fill cupcake liners about 3/4 full.
Bake for 18–20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cool completely.
Step 5: Make the coffee soak
Combine espresso and coffee liqueur.
Poke small holes in cooled cupcakes and brush with coffee soak.
Step 6: Make mascarpone frosting
Beat mascarpone, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
In another bowl, whip cream to stiff peaks.
Fold whipped cream gently into mascarpone mixture.
Step 7: Frost and garnish
Pipe or spread frosting over cupcakes.
Dust with cocoa powder and garnish with chocolate curls if desired.
What to Serve It With
Fresh brewed espresso or cappuccino
Affogato – vanilla gelato topped with espresso
Fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries
Light salad if serving after a meal
Sparkling water or Prosecco for a festive touch
Variations / Substitutions
Make alcohol-free: Skip the coffee liqueur and use extra espresso
Make gluten-free: Swap flour for a gluten-free blend
Add chocolate chips into the batter for extra indulgence
Flavor the frosting with a hint of coffee extract for more punch
Use decaf espresso for a caffeine-free version
Storage & Leftovers
Fridge: Store frosted cupcakes in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days
Freezer: Freeze unfrosted cupcakes for up to 1 month; thaw and frost before serving
Tip: Store cupcakes away from direct sunlight and moisture to keep frosting intact
Refresh frosting: If frosting softens after chilling, lightly whip it back to life without overmixing
FAQs
Can I make Tiramisu Cupcakes without coffee?
Yes, you can substitute coffee with vanilla syrup or simply use plain cupcakes.
What can I use instead of mascarpone cheese?
You can substitute with cream cheese for a slightly tangier taste.
Can I make them a day ahead?
Definitely! Bake the cupcakes and store separately; frost just before serving.
Is the alcohol necessary?
No. Skip the coffee liqueur for a kid-friendly version.
Can I use instant coffee instead of brewed espresso?
Yes! Dissolve instant coffee in hot water for a strong coffee flavor.
How do I prevent soggy cupcakes?
Brush the coffee soak lightly and let it absorb before adding more.
Can I frost with regular buttercream?
Sure, but mascarpone gives the traditional tiramisu flavor.
Final Thoughts
These Tiramisu Cupcakes bring together rich espresso flavor, creamy mascarpone frosting, and a delicate cocoa dusting into one incredible bite-sized dessert.
They’re the perfect treat for coffee lovers, party guests, or anyone who loves Italian sweets.
Easy to make, easy to love!
