Tiramisu Cupcakes Recipe

If you adore the rich and creamy flavors of classic Italian tiramisu but want a fun, handheld twist, this Tiramisu Cupcakes Recipe is just what you need. These delightful cupcakes capture the essence of tiramisu in every bite, combining a moist espresso-infused cake with luscious mascarpone frosting and a dusting of cocoa powder. Perfect for celebrations, casual get-togethers, or whenever you crave a taste of Italy with a modern, personal touch, these cupcakes are sure to impress and satisfy every sweet tooth.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward baking these heavenly tiramisu cupcakes. Each element plays a crucial role, contributing flavor, texture, and that classic tiramisu character that makes every bite irresistible.

• All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups): The base of the cupcake that keeps the crumb tender and perfect.
• Baking powder (1 1/2 teaspoons): Helps the cupcakes rise and stay light.
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances and enhances all the sweet flavors.
• Unsalted butter (8 tablespoons): Adds richness and moisture when creamed with sugar.
• Granulated sugar (3/4 cup + 2 tablespoons): Sweetens and helps achieve a fluffy texture.
• Large egg (1) and egg yolks (2): Provides structure, color, and a bit of extra richness.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): A subtle flavor enhancer that complements the espresso and mascarpone.
• Milk (1/3 cup): Keeps the batter moist and tender.
• Buttermilk (1/3 cup): Adds tanginess and helps create a soft crumb.
• Instant espresso powder (1 1/2 tablespoons): Infuses the cupcakes with that beloved coffee kick central to tiramisu’s character.
• Mascarpone cheese (8 oz): The creamy heart of the frosting, lending authentic Italian flavor.
• Powdered sugar (2/3 cup): Sweetens the mascarpone frosting to a silky smooth finish.
• Heavy cream (1 cup): Whipped to soft peaks, it lightens the frosting and adds luscious texture.
• Cocoa powder (1 tablespoon): The essential finishing touch for that classic tiramisu dusting.

How to Make Tiramisu Cupcakes Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. Measure out and have all your ingredients ready. This sets you up for smooth baking without rushing.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures your leavening agent and salt are evenly distributed, which helps the cupcakes bake evenly and develop a perfect crumb.

Step 3: Dissolve the Espresso

In a small bowl, dissolve the instant espresso powder in the milk. This step infuses your batter with that unmistakable coffee flavor without leaving gritty bits of powder behind.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

Beat the unsalted butter and sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process aerates the batter, ensuring your cupcakes are soft and tender.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the whole egg and egg yolks one at a time, incorporating them fully after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract to add a warm, aromatic touch that beautifully complements the espresso.

Step 6: Alternate Adding Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the flour mixture and the espresso-infused milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the flour. Mix just until combined each time—you want to keep the batter tender and avoid overmixing.

Step 7: Stir in Buttermilk

Gently mix in the buttermilk until the batter is smooth. The buttermilk adds a slight tang and tender crumb, perfectly balancing the sweet and coffee flavors.

Step 8: Bake the Cupcakes

Divide the batter evenly into your cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full to allow for rising. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.

Step 9: Prepare 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 fold it gently into the mascarpone mixture. This creates a light, silky frosting bursting with authentic tiramisu flavor.

Step 10: Frost and Finish

Frost the completely cooled cupcakes with the mascarpone cream, then dust the tops with cocoa powder for that signature tiramisu look and flavor. Serve chilled or at room temperature for maximum enjoyment!

How to Serve Tiramisu Cupcakes Recipe

Garnishes

For a show-stopping presentation, spritz a few coffee beans atop each cupcake or add a delicate chocolate shaving to accompany the cocoa dusting. A light drizzle of coffee syrup can also add extra moisture and flavor, making each bite even more delicious.

Side Dishes

Tiramisu cupcakes shine on their own but also pair beautifully with a simple espresso or cappuccino to intensify that coffee vibe. For a fresh contrast, serve alongside fresh berries or a crisp green salad with a zesty lemon vinaigrette.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn these cupcakes into an elegant dessert buffet by placing them on a tiered cake stand with little espresso cups or chocolate-dipped spoons. Alternatively, serve them in rustic wooden boxes lined with coffee-stained parchment paper for a charming, cozy feel.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover tiramisu cupcakes refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This ensures the mascarpone frosting stays fresh and the flavor develops even more, like a traditional tiramisu.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap each cupcake tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving for best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Because of the delicate mascarpone frosting, avoid microwaving these cupcakes. Instead, serve them chilled or at room temperature, allowing the flavors to shine without compromising texture.

FAQs

Can I use regular coffee instead of espresso powder?

Instant espresso powder is preferred for its intense, concentrated coffee flavor without extra liquid. If you only have brewed coffee, reduce other liquids slightly to maintain batter consistency, but the flavor won’t be quite as strong.

Is mascarpone cheese necessary for the frosting?

Mascarpone is key to authentic tiramisu flavor and texture because of its creamy, slightly tangy profile. Cream cheese is a possible substitute but will change the taste and consistency.

How do I prevent cupcakes from sinking in the middle?

Make sure not to overmix your batter and bake immediately after mixing. Also, ensure your baking powder is fresh and the oven is preheated properly to help cupcakes rise evenly.

Can I make these cupcakes dairy-free?

It’s challenging because mascarpone and heavy cream are essential to the frosting’s texture and flavor. You might experiment with coconut cream and dairy-free cream cheese, but the classic tiramisu experience will be different.

What’s the best way to get the cocoa powder to stick evenly?

Dust cocoa powder just before serving with a fine-mesh sieve for an even, delicate layer. Lightly chilling the frosted cupcakes first helps the powder adhere better and look more professional.

Final Thoughts

There’s truly something special about this Tiramisu Cupcakes Recipe that makes it feel like a warm hug with every bite. The balance of espresso, creamy mascarpone, and cocoa powder comes together so beautifully, you’ll find yourself reaching for one cupcake after another. So go on, give this delightful twist on tiramisu a try—you’ll be sharing a delicious new favorite with everyone you love in no time!

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