Dessert

Tiramisu Cupcakes Recipe

Name: Tiramisu Cupcakes Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup brewed espresso, cooled; 1 cup mascarpone cheese; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons cocoa powder

ByLila Prescott January 28, 2026January 28, 2026

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Introduction

Tiramisu Cupcakes capture the rich, creamy flavors of the classic Italian dessert in a delightful handheld treat. These cupcakes are moist, coffee-infused, and topped with a luscious mascarpone frosting dusted with cocoa powder. Perfect for parties or a special dessert craving.

The image shows several cupcakes on a white plate placed on a white marbled surface, each cupcake with two layers of light yellow sponge cake separated by a thin layer of brown filling. On top of the cupcakes, there is a thick swirl of white cream frosting dusted with a light layer of brown cocoa powder. One cupcake in the front is cut in half, revealing the layers clearly, while the others remain whole in the background with similar creamy swirls and cocoa dusting. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs

1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup brewed espresso, cooled
1 cup mascarpone cheese
1/2 cup heavy cream

2 tablespoons cocoa powder

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with liners.
Step 2: In a bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Step 3: Mix in the flour, milk, and vanilla extract until just combined. Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners.
Step 4: Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow to cool completely.
Step 5: Brush the tops of the cooled cupcakes with the brewed espresso.

Step 6: In a separate bowl, whip together the mascarpone cheese and heavy cream until smooth. Frost the cupcakes and dust with cocoa powder before serving.

Tips & Variations

For a stronger coffee flavor, soak the cupcakes with an extra brush of espresso before frosting.
Substitute mascarpone with cream cheese for a tangier frosting.

Add a splash of coffee liqueur like Kahlúa to the frosting for an adult twist.
Use chocolate shavings or espresso beans as decoration instead of cocoa powder for added texture.

Storage

Store the tiramisu cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture. Because of the mascarpone frosting, freezing is not recommended as it may change the texture upon thawing.

How to Serve

A close-up view of several cupcakes on a white plate, each with a generous swirl of white cream frosting on top, sprinkled with fine brown cocoa powder. One cupcake in the front is cut in half, revealing two light yellow cake layers separated by a thin layer of filling and topped with the same thick white frosting dusted with cocoa powder. The surface beneath the plate has a white marbled texture with some scattered cocoa powder around the plate edges. The overall scene is softly lit, focusing on the creamy texture and cocoa detail. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use instant coffee instead of brewed espresso?

Yes, dissolve a strong shot of instant coffee in hot water and let it cool before brushing it on the cupcakes. It won’t be exactly the same but will provide a similar coffee flavor.

Can I make the cupcakes ahead of time?

You can bake the cupcakes a day in advance and refrigerate them unfrosted. Brush with espresso and add the mascarpone frosting just before serving to keep them fresh and creamy.