Tiramisu Cupcakes Recipe
An easy and indulgent Tiramisu Cupcakes recipe that captures the classic tiramisu flavors of espresso, mascarpone, and cocoa in a moist, tender cupcake form topped with a creamy mascarpone frosting and dusted with cocoa powder. Perfect for parties, gifting, or any occasion where a handheld dessert is desired.
- Author: Lucas
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Yield: 12 cupcakes 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free (if gluten-free flour blend used)
Cake Batter Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free)
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons espresso powder
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder (for batter)
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup sour cream or yogurt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Mascarpone Frosting Ingredients
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese, chilled (or coconut cream for vegan)
- 1 cup heavy cream, chilled
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional for richness)
Finishing & Garnishes
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)
- Finely grated dark chocolate or crushed espresso beans (optional)
- Prepare the Cake Batter: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with liners. In a bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, granulated sugar, espresso powder, and cocoa powder. In another bowl, beat the eggs, softened butter, sour cream, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually combine the wet and dry ingredients, mixing just until smooth and slightly thick but pourable.
- Bake the Cupcakes: Spoon the batter evenly into the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and allow cupcakes to cool completely on a wire rack to ensure frosting will not melt later.
- Make the Mascarpone Frosting: Whip the heavy cream with a mixer until soft peaks form. In a separate bowl, beat mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and optional butter until smooth and creamy. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until light and airy.
- Assemble the Cupcakes: Once cupcakes are fully cooled, use a piping bag or spoon to generously frost each cupcake with the mascarpone frosting. Dust the tops with unsweetened cocoa powder and optionally sprinkle with finely grated dark chocolate or crushed espresso beans for added texture and aroma.
Notes
- Use freshly brewed espresso powder for the best coffee flavor.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep cupcakes tender.
- Keep mascarpone cheese chilled while making the frosting to avoid curdling.
- Ensure eggs and butter are at room temperature before mixing.
- Allow cupcakes to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cupcake
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 90 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
Keywords: Tiramisu, Cupcakes, Italian Dessert, Coffee, Mascarpone, Cocoa, Gluten-Free Option, Baking