Mini Tiramisu Cups are a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert, offering rich, creamy layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and smooth mascarpone filling, all beautifully presented in single-serving cups. This recipe delivers all the indulgence of traditional tiramisu without the hassle of slicing and serving. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, a bridal shower, or just treating yourself to a special dessert, these mini tiramisu cups are sure to impress. Their elegant appearance, combined with their irresistible flavor, makes them a perfect addition to any occasion. Plus, they’re easy to prepare, requiring no baking—just simple layering and chilling.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfectly Portioned: Individual cups make serving effortless and prevent messes.
- Rich and Creamy: The mascarpone mixture is smooth, luscious, and perfectly balanced with the coffee-soaked biscuits.
- No-Bake & Easy to Assemble: No need to turn on the oven! Just layer and refrigerate.
- Customizable: Adjust the sweetness, coffee strength, or even add fun flavors like chocolate or fruit.
- Great for Any Occasion: These mini cups are ideal for parties, weddings, birthdays, and holiday gatherings.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Since they need time to chill, you can prepare them in advance for a stress-free dessert.
Preparation Time and Servings
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chilling Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 mini tiramisu cups
- Serving Size: 1 mini cup
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 18g
Ingredients
- For the Coffee Mixture:
- 1 cup strong brewed espresso (or strong coffee)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon coffee liqueur (optional, or substitute with extra coffee)
- For the Mascarpone Cream:
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For Assembly:
- 12–16 ladyfinger biscuits (savoiardi)
- Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
- Dark chocolate shavings or cocoa nibs (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Coffee Mixture
- Brew a cup of strong espresso or coffee and allow it to cool slightly.
- Stir in sugar (if using), vanilla extract, and coffee liqueur. Mix well and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Mascarpone Cream
- In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream using an electric mixer until soft peaks form.
- In a separate bowl, mix mascarpone cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture, combining until smooth and fluffy.
Step 3: Assemble the Mini Tiramisu Cups
- Break ladyfinger biscuits in half to fit into small serving cups or glasses.
- Quickly dip each piece of ladyfinger into the coffee mixture (do not soak too long, or they will become too soggy).
- Layer the dipped ladyfingers in the bottom of each cup.
- Spoon a generous amount of mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers, spreading evenly.
- Repeat with another layer of soaked ladyfingers, followed by another layer of mascarpone cream.
- Smooth the top and lightly dust with cocoa powder.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
- Cover the cups with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight).
- Before serving, add additional cocoa powder, chocolate shavings, or cocoa nibs for garnish.
Ingredient Background
- Mascarpone Cheese: This Italian cheese is known for its rich, creamy texture and slightly sweet flavor, making it the key ingredient in tiramisu.
- Ladyfinger Biscuits: Also called savoiardi, these light and airy biscuits quickly absorb liquid, making them ideal for layering in desserts.
- Espresso: Strong coffee provides the deep, bold flavor that contrasts beautifully with the sweet mascarpone cream.
- Heavy Whipping Cream: Used to add lightness and fluffiness to the mascarpone mixture.
- Cocoa Powder: A final dusting of cocoa powder enhances the chocolate-coffee flavor combination.
Freezing and Storage
- Refrigeration: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days, covered tightly to prevent drying out.
- Freezing: Tiramisu cups can be frozen for up to 1 month. To prevent freezer burn, wrap each cup with plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator for several hours before serving.
- Avoid Freezing for Too Long: Mascarpone can become slightly grainy when frozen, so it’s best to enjoy within a month for the best texture.
Healthier Twist Ideas
- Lower Sugar: Reduce powdered sugar or use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener.
- Lighter Version: Use Greek yogurt instead of mascarpone for a protein boost and a tangier flavor.
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream and dairy-free mascarpone alternatives to make it completely dairy-free.
- Whole-Grain Alternative: Use whole-grain ladyfingers or homemade spelt biscuits for a fiber-rich option.
- Less Fat: Swap heavy whipping cream with light whipped topping or a lower-fat dairy alternative.
Serving Suggestions for Events
- Dinner Parties: Serve with espresso or cappuccino for an authentic Italian experience.
- Weddings & Engagements: Elegant glass cups make for a sophisticated dessert table display.
- Holiday Gatherings: Add a festive touch with a sprinkle of cinnamon, nutmeg, or crushed peppermint.
- Birthday Celebrations: Top with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or caramel for extra indulgence.
- Summer Picnics: Serve in mason jars with fresh berries for a refreshing variation.
Special Equipment
- Electric Mixer: For whipping cream efficiently.
- Small Serving Cups: Glass or plastic cups work well, such as dessert shot glasses or ramekins.
- Fine-Mesh Sifter: For dusting cocoa powder evenly on top.
- Espresso Maker or French Press: If making fresh espresso for the coffee mixture.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make Mini Tiramisu Cups ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, they taste better after resting for at least 4 hours or overnight, allowing the flavors to meld.
2. Can I use cream cheese instead of mascarpone?
While possible, mascarpone provides a more authentic flavor and texture. Cream cheese has a tangier taste and firmer consistency.
3. How do I prevent my tiramisu from becoming too soggy?
Dip the ladyfingers quickly into the coffee mixture rather than soaking them. They should be moist but still hold their shape.
4. Can I make a kid-friendly version?
Yes! Simply skip the coffee liqueur and use decaf coffee or warm milk mixed with a little cocoa powder.
5. What can I use instead of ladyfingers?
Graham crackers, sponge cake, or vanilla wafers can be used as a substitute, though they may have a slightly different texture.
6. Can I make this recipe without coffee?
You can substitute hot chocolate or a flavored milk mixture for a coffee-free version while still keeping the dessert creamy and delicious.
7. What’s the best way to get smooth mascarpone cream?
Make sure mascarpone is at room temperature before mixing, and fold it gently to avoid overbeating, which can cause a grainy texture.
8. Can I add extra flavor to the mascarpone mixture?
Yes! A splash of flavored liqueur (such as amaretto or hazelnut liqueur), cinnamon, or cocoa powder can enhance the taste.
Conclusion
Mini Tiramisu Cups are an elegant, easy-to-make dessert that brings all the beloved flavors of classic tiramisu in a portable, single-serving format. Whether you’re serving them at a special event or enjoying them as a personal treat, they deliver an irresistible balance of creamy, coffee-infused deliciousness. Their rich, velvety texture and perfectly layered flavors make them an indulgent yet sophisticated treat for any occasion. Plus, their make-ahead convenience means you can prepare them in advance, making entertaining effortless. Try them today and impress your guests with this no-bake Italian favorite—every bite is a taste of pure decadence!
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Mini Tiramisu Cups
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 mini tiramisu cups 1x
Ingredients
- For the Coffee Mixture:
- 1 cup strong brewed espresso (or strong coffee)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon coffee liqueur (optional, or substitute with extra coffee)
- For the Mascarpone Cream:
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For Assembly:
- 12–16 ladyfinger biscuits (savoiardi)
- Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
- Dark chocolate shavings or cocoa nibs (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Coffee Mixture
- Brew a cup of strong espresso or coffee and allow it to cool slightly.
- Stir in sugar (if using), vanilla extract, and coffee liqueur. Mix well and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Mascarpone Cream
- In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream using an electric mixer until soft peaks form.
- In a separate bowl, mix mascarpone cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture, combining until smooth and fluffy.
Step 3: Assemble the Mini Tiramisu Cups
- Break ladyfinger biscuits in half to fit into small serving cups or glasses.
- Quickly dip each piece of ladyfinger into the coffee mixture (do not soak too long, or they will become too soggy).
- Layer the dipped ladyfingers in the bottom of each cup.
- Spoon a generous amount of mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers, spreading evenly.
- Repeat with another layer of soaked ladyfingers, followed by another layer of mascarpone cream.
- Smooth the top and lightly dust with cocoa powder.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
- Cover the cups with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight).
- Before serving, add additional cocoa powder, chocolate shavings, or cocoa nibs for garnish.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill time: 4 hours (or overnight)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mini cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 18g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g