Mini Tiramisu Mascarpone Cups Recipe
If you adore the delightful marriage of coffee and cream, these Mini Tiramisu Mascarpone Cups are about to win your heart! Imagine the iconic Italian tiramisu, but in perfectly portioned, elegant cups—no slicing required. Each spoonful delivers that signature combination of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, dreamy mascarpone cream, and a gentle hit of cocoa, all nestled in a cute, party-ready vessel. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, Mini Tiramisu Mascarpone Cups make indulgence delightfully easy and endlessly impressive.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What I love about this recipe is its simplicity—the ingredients are few, but each plays a vital role in building the decadent layers that define tiramisu. From the creamy mascarpone to the bold espresso and delicate ladyfingers, every element brings its own special magic to these Mini Tiramisu Mascarpone Cups.
- Mascarpone cheese: The creamy Italian cheese gives the filling its rich, silky texture and distinctive delicate flavor.
- Heavy cream: When whipped, this adds luxurious volume and lightness to the mascarpone mixture.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens both the creamy filling and the coffee, ensuring every bite is perfectly balanced.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a beautiful aroma and a warm undertone to the mascarpone cream.
- Strong brewed espresso or coffee: Provides the deep, robust coffee flavor that makes tiramisu irresistible.
- Coffee liqueur (optional): For a grown-up twist, a little liqueur lends warmth and complexity to the coffee soak.
- Ladyfinger cookies: These airy Italian biscuits absorb the coffee mixture beautifully without getting mushy.
How to Make Mini Tiramisu Mascarpone Cups
Step 1: Blend the Mascarpone and Sugar
Start by gently folding together the mascarpone cheese and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl. The goal here is to combine until smooth and creamy but without over-mixing, so the mascarpone keeps its silky texture. This becomes the luscious backbone of your Mini Tiramisu Mascarpone Cups.
Step 2: Whip the Cream with Vanilla
In another bowl, pour in your heavy cream and add the vanilla extract. Whip the cream until soft peaks form—this helps add airy volume and structure to your dessert. The vanilla infuses the cream with a subtle sweetness that perfectly complements the mascarpone.
Step 3: Combine the Two Creams
Now, gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture, working in batches. The trick is to take your time, folding until just combined to keep the mixture pillowy-light and fluffy. This harmonious blend is the essence of the cream layer in these Mini Tiramisu Mascarpone Cups.
Step 4: Make the Coffee Soak
Boil water and brew your espresso or very strong coffee, then stir in granulated sugar and coffee liqueur if using. Allow the coffee mixture to cool to room temperature. This coffee soak will infuse each ladyfinger with that classic tiramisu kick, elevating every bite.
Step 5: Soak the Ladyfingers
One by one, quickly dip each ladyfinger into the cooled coffee mixture. Don’t let them linger—just a quick dip is all that’s needed so they become moist but not soggy, ensuring your Mini Tiramisu Mascarpone Cups have lovely layers instead of a mushy base.
Step 6: Assembly Time!
Begin by arranging a layer of soaked ladyfingers at the bottom of each serving cup, breaking them to fit as needed. Next, spoon over a generous layer of the mascarpone cream. Repeat the process: another layer of dipped ladyfingers, followed by another dreamy cream layer, finishing with a thick and velvety crown of mascarpone mixture on top.
Step 7: Chill and Set
Let your assembled Mini Tiramisu Mascarpone Cups rest in the refrigerator for at least four hours. This gives the flavors time to meld, and the ladyfingers to softly meld with the cream—patience pays off, and your finished dessert will be irresistible!
How to Serve Mini Tiramisu Mascarpone Cups
Garnishes
A classic dusting of unsweetened cocoa powder is a must for true tiramisu flair, but you can also add chocolate shavings, a scatter of espresso beans, or even a few fresh berries for a pop of color. Each adds a special finishing touch to your Mini Tiramisu Mascarpone Cups, making them look even more inviting.
Side Dishes
These little cups are rich and satisfying all on their own, but they pair delightfully with an after-dinner espresso, a scoop of vanilla gelato, or some crisp biscotti. The combination highlights the Italian theme and turns dessert into a true occasion.
Creative Ways to Present
Part of the charm of Mini Tiramisu Mascarpone Cups is in the presentation—try assembling them in vintage teacups, mini mason jars, or elegant stemmed glasses for an extra wow factor. You could even layer them in a trifle dish for a more dramatic, shareable version that still delivers every bit of that cozy tiramisu magic.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any Mini Tiramisu Mascarpone Cups left (lucky you!), simply wrap each cup with plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors only seem to improve the next day, making them an amazing make-ahead dessert for gatherings.
Freezing
Freezing these cups is possible, but keep in mind the texture may change slightly. To freeze, cover tightly and store for up to 1 month. Thaw them slowly in the refrigerator overnight for the best results and a still-creamy bite.
Reheating
No reheating needed! These treats are meant to be enjoyed chilled. If you’ve frozen your Mini Tiramisu Mascarpone Cups, make sure they are fully thawed and cold before diving in for the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I make Mini Tiramisu Mascarpone Cups without coffee liqueur?
Absolutely! If you want to keep these cups alcohol-free, simply leave out the coffee liqueur. The espresso on its own provides plenty of rich, authentic flavor for a classic result.
What substitutes work if I can’t find ladyfingers?
Savoiardi are traditional, but in a pinch, you can use sponge cake cut into strips or even crisp vanilla biscotti. Just make sure the substitute soaks up the coffee mixture nicely.
How do I make these ahead for a party?
Assemble the cups the night before and let them chill in the fridge. Hold off on any garnishes until right before serving to keep everything looking fresh and irresistibly appetizing!
Are Mini Tiramisu Mascarpone Cups gluten-free?
They can be! Simply use gluten-free ladyfingers (available at many specialty stores) and double-check all other ingredient labels to be sure. The rest of the components are naturally gluten-free.
Can I use regular cream cheese instead of mascarpone?
Cream cheese can be used in a pinch, but the flavor and texture will be tangier and less delicate than with mascarpone. For true tiramisu lovers, mascarpone is worth seeking out because it really makes the dish shine!
Final Thoughts
If you love sharing little bites of joy with friends and family, these Mini Tiramisu Mascarpone Cups will become a cherished favorite. They’re simple yet spectacular, and every cup promises that classic Italian indulgence we all secretly crave. Give this recipe a try—you might find yourself returning to it again and again!
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Mini Tiramisu Mascarpone Cups Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 mini cups 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these delightful Mini Tiramisu Mascarpone Cups, a small but luxurious twist on the classic tiramisu dessert. Perfectly portioned and bursting with creamy mascarpone goodness, they are sure to impress your guests or satisfy your sweet cravings.
Ingredients
Mascarpone Cream:
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Coffee Mixture:
- 1 cup strong brewed espresso or very strong coffee
- 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Assembly:
- 12 ladyfinger cookies
Instructions
- Combine Mascarpone and Sugar – In a large mixing bowl, gently fold together mascarpone cheese and granulated sugar with a spatula until fully combined.
- Whip Cream with Vanilla – In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- Fold Cream into Mascarpone Mixture – Gradually fold whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture, mixing gently until smooth and creamy.
- Prepare Coffee Mixture – Boil 1 cup water and let cool briefly. Add strong brewed espresso and granulated sugar, stirring until sugar dissolves. Stir in coffee liqueur if using, then allow to cool to room temperature.
- Soak Ladyfingers – Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture, ensuring they are evenly moistened without becoming soggy.
- Layer Cups – Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers at the bottom of each serving cup.
- Add Mascarpone Cream Layer – Spoon a generous layer of mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers in each cup.
- Repeat Layers – Repeat the layering process with additional soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cream, finishing with a final layer of cream on top.
- Chill – Refrigerate the assembled cups for at least 4 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Chilling, Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mini cup
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Tiramisu, Mascarpone, Mini Dessert, Italian Dessert, Sweet Treat
