Tiramisu Cupcakes combine the beloved flavors of the classic Italian dessert with the convenience and portability of a cupcake. These delectable treats feature a soft, coffee-infused cake base, topped with a creamy mascarpone frosting that mirrors the richness of traditional tiramisu. To elevate the flavor, they are soaked with a touch of coffee and rum syrup and finished off with a dusting of cocoa powder. Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a special occasion, or just craving a delicious twist on a classic dessert, Tiramisu Cupcakes are sure to impress. Here’s how to make them from scratch and enjoy this perfect fusion of flavors in every bite!
Ingredients
For the cupcakes:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
- 1 tablespoon rum (optional)
For the mascarpone frosting:
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon strong brewed coffee, cooled
For the coffee syrup:
- 1/2 cup brewed coffee, cooled
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon rum (optional)
For garnish:
- Cocoa powder, for dusting
- Chocolate shavings or grated chocolate (optional)
Prep Time & Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Yields: 12 cupcakes
- Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per cupcake
Instructions for Tiramisu Cupcakes
Step 1: Make the Coffee Syrup
In a small saucepan, combine the brewed coffee and sugar. Heat the mixture over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely. Once the sugar is dissolved, remove from heat and stir in the rum, if using. Set the syrup aside to cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Cupcake Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk and brewed coffee. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, ensuring not to overmix the batter.
Step 3: Bake the Cupcakes
Spoon the batter evenly into the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, remove the cupcakes from the oven and let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Soak the Cupcakes with Coffee Syrup
Once the cupcakes have cooled, use a toothpick or fork to poke small holes in the tops of each cupcake. Slowly spoon the coffee syrup over each cupcake, allowing the syrup to soak into the cake. Be generous with the syrup to infuse the cupcakes with that signature tiramisu flavor.
Step 5: Make the Mascarpone Frosting
In a medium bowl, whisk together the mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Add the cooled coffee and mix until fully incorporated. The frosting should be thick and fluffy, so add more powdered sugar if needed for a stiffer consistency.
Step 6: Frost the Cupcakes
Once the cupcakes are soaked and the frosting is ready, generously pipe or spread the mascarpone frosting onto each cupcake. Use a spatula to smooth the frosting if desired.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finish the cupcakes by dusting the tops with cocoa powder and optionally adding chocolate shavings or grated chocolate. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Why You’ll Love These Tiramisu Cupcakes
- Classic Tiramisu Flavors: These cupcakes offer the perfect balance of coffee, mascarpone, and cocoa, just like traditional tiramisu, but in a convenient, bite-sized form.
- Moist and Flavorful: The coffee syrup soak gives the cupcakes a deep, rich flavor that’s both moist and aromatic.
- Elegant Dessert: With their delicate frosting and cocoa dusting, these cupcakes make a stunning dessert for any special occasion.
- Quick and Easy: Unlike making traditional tiramisu, these cupcakes come together in a fraction of the time but deliver all the delicious flavors.
Tips for the Best Tiramisu Cupcakes
- Use Strong Coffee: Make sure to use a strong brewed coffee to give the cupcakes a robust coffee flavor. If you prefer, you can substitute espresso for a more intense taste.
- Don’t Skip the Coffee Syrup: The coffee syrup is what gives these cupcakes their signature moist texture and tiramisu-like flavor. Be sure to soak the cupcakes generously.
- Chill the Frosting: If you want a thicker, more stable frosting, refrigerate the mascarpone frosting for 10-15 minutes before frosting the cupcakes.
- Make Ahead: You can bake the cupcakes ahead of time and store them in an airtight container. Just frost them right before serving for the freshest taste.
The Science Behind Their Unique Texture
Tiramisu cupcakes achieve their perfect texture through a combination of ingredients and techniques. The flour and baking powder help the cupcakes rise while keeping them light and fluffy. The milk and brewed coffee make the batter moist, and the addition of coffee syrup after baking ensures that the cupcakes stay tender. The mascarpone frosting, made with heavy cream and mascarpone cheese, adds richness and creaminess, mimicking the flavor profile of traditional tiramisu. This combination of moisture, richness, and flavor makes these cupcakes a delightful treat.
Variations on Tiramisu Cupcakes
- Chocolate Tiramisu Cupcakes: Add cocoa powder to the cupcake batter for a chocolate twist on this classic dessert.
- No Alcohol Option: If you prefer to skip the rum, simply leave it out of both the coffee syrup and frosting. The cupcakes will still be delicious.
- Layered Tiramisu Cupcakes: Instead of a single layer of frosting, pipe a layer of mascarpone frosting in the middle of the cupcake, sandwiching it between two layers of cake for an extra creamy bite.
FAQ about Tiramisu Cupcakes
Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time? Yes! You can bake the cupcakes up to 2 days in advance and store them in an airtight container. Frost them just before serving for the best results.
Can I freeze these cupcakes? Yes, these cupcakes can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just make sure to freeze them without the frosting, then frost them after thawing.
Can I make these cupcakes without alcohol? Absolutely! You can omit the rum from both the syrup and the frosting. The cupcakes will still be rich and flavorful.
Conclusion
Tiramisu Cupcakes are a deliciously indulgent treat that perfectly combines the flavors of classic tiramisu with the convenience of a cupcake. These cupcakes offer a soft, coffee-infused base with a rich mascarpone frosting and a hint of cocoa, making them an ideal dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply treating yourself, these cupcakes are sure to impress and satisfy any tiramisu lover. The balance of flavors and textures makes them a standout dessert that will leave everyone asking for more!
