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Tiramisu Cupcakes – Coffee-Soaked, Cream-Filled, Totally Dreamy!

These cupcakes take all the flavors of classic tiramisu — espresso, mascarpone, cocoa, and a hint of liqueur — and wrap them up in a soft, fluffy cupcake. They’re the perfect individual treat for coffee lovers and dessert fans alike!

Ingredients

Scale

For the cupcakes (vanilla sponge base):

  • 1 1/4 cups (160 g) all-purpose flour

  • 1 1/4 teaspoons baking powder

  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

  • 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened

  • 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar

  • 2 large eggs

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk

For the coffee soak:

  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) strong brewed espresso or coffee

  • 1 tablespoon sugar

  • 12 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional, like Kahlúa or Marsala)

For the mascarpone frosting:

  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream, cold

  • 1/2 cup (115 g) mascarpone cheese, cold

  • 1/4 cup (30 g) powdered sugar

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

To finish:

  • Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)

  • Optional: chocolate shavings or chocolate-covered espresso beans

Instructions

1. Make the cupcakes:

  • Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F). Line a muffin tin with 12 cupcake liners.

  • In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.

  • In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then vanilla.

  • Alternate adding flour mixture and milk, mixing until just combined.

  • Divide batter evenly and bake for 18–20 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool.


2. Prepare the coffee soak:

  • Mix the hot espresso with sugar and liqueur (if using). Stir until sugar dissolves.

  • Once cupcakes are cool, poke holes in the tops with a skewer or fork.

  • Spoon or brush the coffee soak generously over each cupcake.


3. Make the mascarpone frosting:

  • Beat heavy cream until soft peaks form.

  • In another bowl, whisk mascarpone, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.

  • Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone until thick and creamy.


4. Frost and finish:

  • Pipe or spoon frosting onto each soaked cupcake.

  • Dust with cocoa powder and garnish with chocolate shavings if desired.

Notes

✔️ Chill cupcakes 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor & texture.
✔️ Want to fill them? Core the center and add a dollop of mascarpone or chocolate ganache.
✔️ Make mini tiramisu cupcakes for party-size perfection!