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:

(Makes 12 cupcakes)

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
1–2 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.

💡 Tips & Variations:

✔️ 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!

Would you like a gluten-free or eggless variation of these tiramisu cupcakes next? ☕🧁