These Tiramisu Cupcakes are everything you love about the classic Italian dessert, in a portable and adorable cupcake form! Light, fluffy vanilla cupcakes are infused with coffee syrup, topped with creamy mascarpone frosting, and dusted with cocoa powder for an irresistible treat.

Whether it’s a fancy dinner party or a casual get-together, these cupcakes are sure to impress. They’re rich yet airy, indulgent yet simple to make. Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love These Tiramisu Cupcakes

• Classic Flavors: All the flavors of traditional tiramisu – coffee, mascarpone, and cocoa – packed into a cupcake.
• Elegant Presentation: Perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to dinner parties.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: These cupcakes get better as they sit, letting the flavors meld together.
• Customizable: Adjust the coffee intensity or add a splash of liqueur for an adult twist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cupcakes:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base for light and fluffy cupcakes.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: Provides lift and structure.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cupcakes.

• 2 large eggs: Provides structure and a tender crumb.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and flavor.
• 1/2 cup whole milk: Keeps the cupcakes moist and tender.

For the Coffee Syrup:

• 1/2 cup brewed coffee (strong): The signature tiramisu flavor.
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Slightly sweetens the coffee.
• 1 tablespoon coffee liqueur (optional): Adds depth and a touch of luxury.

For the Mascarpone Frosting:

• 8 oz mascarpone cheese, chilled: The creamy, tangy base of the frosting.
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream: For light, airy frosting.
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting without making it gritty.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: For flavor.

For Garnish:

• Cocoa powder, for dusting
• Chocolate shavings (optional)

Tools You’ll Need

• Muffin tin and cupcake liners
• Mixing bowls
• Hand or stand mixer
• Whisk and spatula
• Piping bag or zip-top bag (for frosting)

How to Make Tiramisu Cupcakes

Step 1: Make the Cupcakes

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and the milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
6. Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
7. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Coffee Syrup

1. While the cupcakes bake, mix the brewed coffee, sugar, and coffee liqueur (if using) in a small bowl. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
2. Once the cupcakes are cool, use a toothpick or skewer to poke small holes in the tops of each cupcake. Brush or spoon the coffee syrup over the cupcakes, allowing it to soak in.

Step 3: Make the Mascarpone Frosting

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese until smooth.
2. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
3. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone until fully combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 4: Frost the Cupcakes

1. Transfer the frosting to a piping bag fitted with your favorite tip (or use a zip-top bag with the corner snipped).
2. Pipe the frosting onto the cooled, coffee-soaked cupcakes in generous swirls.

Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches

Dust the tops of the cupcakes with cocoa powder and garnish with chocolate shavings, if desired.

Tips for the Best Tiramisu Cupcakes

• Use Fresh Coffee: The flavor of the coffee syrup is key, so brew a strong, fresh batch.
• Chill the Frosting Ingredients: Mascarpone and heavy cream whip better when cold.
• Don’t Over-Soak the Cupcakes: Brush on just enough coffee syrup to add flavor without making them soggy.
• Make Ahead: These cupcakes taste even better the next day, as the flavors meld together.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let them come to room temperature before serving.
• Freeze: You can freeze unfrosted cupcakes for up to 2 months. Thaw and frost before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make these cupcakes alcohol-free?

Yes! Simply omit the coffee liqueur and stick to brewed coffee for the syrup.

Can I substitute cream cheese for mascarpone?

Mascarpone has a milder flavor and creamier texture, but you can use cream cheese if needed. Soften it and beat it well to ensure a smooth frosting.

Can I use decaf coffee?

Absolutely! Decaf works perfectly if you want to avoid caffeine.

Nutritional Information (per cupcake, based on 12 servings)

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Sugar: 22g

Final Thoughts

These Tiramisu Cupcakes combine the elegance of tiramisu with the simplicity of cupcakes for a dessert that’s both impressive and easy to make. Perfect for coffee lovers or anyone with a sweet tooth, they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering!

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Share your photos on Instagram or Pinterest, and let me know if you gave them a creative twist.

Happy baking! ☕🧁✨