Name: Tiramisu Cupcakes
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ¼ teaspoon salt; ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature; ¾ cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs, room temperature; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; ½ cup whole milk, room temperature; ½ cup brewed espresso or strong coffee, cooled; 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional); 8 oz mascarpone cheese, room temperature; ½ cup heavy whipping cream, cold; ⅓ cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting); Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting

Tiramisu Cupcakes are the ultimate showstopper for anyone who adores classic Italian desserts! Imagine light, coffee-infused vanilla cupcakes soaked in espresso, topped with dreamy, cloud-like mascarpone frosting and a dusting of cocoa. Each bite is rich, creamy, and bursting with tiramisu flavor-but in adorable, party-friendly cupcake form.

If you've ever craved tiramisu but wanted something more festive (and finger-friendly), these cupcakes are perfect. They're surprisingly easy to make, look absolutely stunning on a dessert table, and guarantee rave reviews at any gathering.

Inspired by my love for Italian cafés, these cupcakes always bring the wow factor at family celebrations or when I just want a little taste of indulgence at home.

Tiramisu Cupcakes topped with cocoa and mascarpone frosting

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Perfectly Portion Controlled: All the classic tiramisu flavors, made bite-sized for easy sharing and serving.
Irresistibly Moist Texture: Coffee soaking keeps the cupcakes ultra-tender and flavorful.
Dreamy Mascarpone Topping: The creamy mascarpone frosting is genuinely unforgettable.
Crowd-Pleaser: Gorgeous presentation and big flavors make these a hit at parties or as a special treat.

Key Ingredients for Tiramisu Cupcakes

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Mascarpone Cheese

Mascarpone is the creamy Italian cheese that gives tiramisu its unmistakable richness. It's essential for the authentic flavor and divine texture of the frosting. Use good-quality mascarpone for best results, and let it come to room temperature to blend smoothly. If you can't find mascarpone, you can substitute with full-fat cream cheese for a tangier twist, though the authentic flavor is best.

Espresso or Strong Coffee

Freshly brewed espresso or very strong coffee soaks into each cupcake, infusing it with deep, aromatic flavor. Cool it before brushing over the cupcakes for maximum absorption. If you don't want caffeine, decaf works great too. For extra indulgence, add a splash of Kahlúa or coffee liqueur.

Ladyfinger-Inspired Vanilla Cupcake Base

These cupcakes are soft and fluffy, just like the ladyfingers in classic tiramisu, thanks to eggs and a steady hand on the mixing. Choose real vanilla extract for the most flavorful, bakery-quality results. If you're short on time, high-quality vanilla cake mix can work in a pinch.

Cocoa Powder

A dusting of unsweetened cocoa powder ties the whole tiramisu experience together, adding a hint of chocolatey bitterness to balance out the sweetness. Sift before sprinkling for a pretty, professional finish. Dutch-process or natural cocoa both work here.

Heavy Whipping Cream

Whipped cream gets folded into the mascarpone for that light-as-air, pillowy frosting. Give it a good, firm whip and chill your bowl and beaters beforehand for best volume. If you prefer, stabilized whipped topping can be used for longer-lasting frosting, but fresh will always taste creamier.

Instructions for Tiramisu Cupcakes

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Prep the Cupcake Pan and Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin pan with cupcake liners for easy cleanup and perfect shapes.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution of rising agents and keeps your cupcakes fluffy.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until very light and fluffy-about 3 to 5 minutes. This step is key for an airy cupcake texture.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Scrape down the sides of your bowl to keep the batter perfectly mixed.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

With the mixer on low, add half the dry ingredients to the butter-sugar mixture, then the milk, then the remaining dry mix. Stir just until smooth-don't overmix, or your cupcakes can turn dense.

Fill and Bake

Divide the batter evenly among cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 17-20 minutes, or until a tester comes out clean. Cool completely on a wire rack before soaking and frosting.

Soak the Cupcakes

Mix cooled espresso with coffee liqueur, if using. Using a pastry brush or spoon, generously brush the tops of each cupcake with the coffee mixture until nicely moistened-but not soggy.

Make the Mascarpone Frosting

In a cold mixing bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. In another bowl, beat mascarpone with powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth. Fold in the whipped cream gently, keeping the frosting light and airy.

Frost and Finish

Pipe or spread the mascarpone frosting onto cooled, coffee-soaked cupcakes. Finish with a generous dusting of sifted cocoa powder for that classic tiramisu look.

Recipe Variations

Make It Alcohol-Free

Skip the coffee liqueur for a family-friendly or alcohol-free treat. You'll still get all that wonderful coffee flavor and creamy goodness.

Chocolate Lover's Twist

Add a handful of mini chocolate chips to the cupcake batter for an extra chocolatey bite. You can also drizzle melted chocolate over the frosted cupcakes for extra flair.

Gluten-Free Tiramisu Cupcakes

Substitute a measure-for-measure gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour. The cupcakes turn out just as moist and flavorful!

Vegan Version

Use plant-based butter, dairy-free milk, vegan cream cheese in place of mascarpone, and coconut cream whipped up for the frosting. Use your favorite egg replacer in the cake base for a fully vegan delight.

Citrus Zest Upgrade

Add the finely grated zest of one orange or lemon into the cupcake batter for a fresh and bright contrast to the rich coffee flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Tiramisu Cupcakes with a shot of espresso or a mug of strong coffee for the ultimate Italian dessert experience! Garnish with chocolate curls or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a special touch. They pair beautifully with fresh berries or a fruity dessert wine for company.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days-the mascarpone frosting needs to be kept cold. Let cupcakes come to room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving for optimal texture. Freezing is possible: freeze unfrosted cupcakes in a sealed bag for up to 1 month, and thaw before assembling and frosting.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tiramisu Cupcakes (FAQ)

Q: Can I make Tiramisu Cupcakes ahead of time?

A: Yes! You can bake the cupcakes a day ahead, then frost and add cocoa just before serving for the freshest taste and look.

Q: Is there a substitute for mascarpone in the frosting?

A: Full-fat cream cheese is the best substitute, though the flavor will be a bit tangier than classic tiramisu.

Q: How do I prevent soggy cupcakes when soaking with coffee?

A: Brush the coffee mixture on in layers, letting each soak in before adding more, to keep the cupcakes moist but not overly wet.

These Tiramisu Cupcakes are pure joy in every bite, combining everything you love about classic tiramisu in easy-to-eat cupcake form! I hope you give this recipe a try-leave a comment or a rating below and let me know how they turned out at your next party or family gathering!