Tiramisu Cupcakes

If you love classic tiramisu, you’ll adore these Tiramisu Cupcakes — a modern, individual twist on the iconic Italian dessert. Each cupcake features a soft coffee-soaked vanilla sponge, layered with a light mascarpone cream, and finished with a dusting of cocoa powder. They’re elegant, indulgent, and perfect for parties or coffee lovers.

Tiramisu-flavored cupcakes with cream topping and cocoa dusting.
Clock symbol indicating preparation, baking, and chilling times

Prep – 25 minutes
Bake – 20 minutes

Cupcake with swirled frosting on top in a ridged cupcake liner.

12 cupcakes
Ingredients

For the Cupcakes:

  • 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
  • ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ cup (120ml) milk

For the Coffee Soak:

  • ½ cup (120ml) strong brewed coffee, cooled
  • 1 tbsp coffee liqueur (optional)

For the Mascarpone Frosting:

  • 8 oz (225g) mascarpone cheese
  • ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
  • ½ cup (60g) powdered sugar
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract
  • Cocoa powder, for dusting
Instructions
  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
  • Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
  • In a separate bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla. Mix in dry ingredients alternately with milk.
  • Spoon batter into liners, filling ¾ full. Bake 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.
  • Brush cooled cupcakes with coffee soak.
  • Whip mascarpone, cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and fluffy. Pipe onto cupcakes and dust with cocoa powder.
  • Refrigerate before serving for best flavor.

Tips & Tricks

  • Brush generously with espresso or strong coffee for the best flavor (don’t skip this step!).
  • Use room temperature mascarpone to ensure the cream topping blends smoothly.
  • Best served chilled or slightly cool to highlight the creamy mascarpone topping.
  • Garnish with a light dusting of unsweetened cocoa powder and a few chocolate shavings or coffee beans for an elegant finish.
  • Pair with espresso, cappuccino, or a dessert liqueur for the full tiramisu experience.
  • Perfect for brunches, celebrations, or as a dinner party finale.

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