Tiramisu cupcake recipe​

Introduction: A Delightful Twist on a Classic Dessert

Tiramisu cupcakes bring together the rich, creamy flavors of the classic Italian dessert and the convenient, hand-held charm of cupcakes. Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or even just a cozy treat for yourself, these cupcakes deliver layers of espresso-soaked sponge, velvety mascarpone frosting, and a hint of cocoa in every bite. Whether you’re a tiramisu fan or a cupcake lover, this recipe is guaranteed to win over your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love These Tiramisu Cupcakes

There are so many reasons why tiramisu cupcakes deserve a spot on your dessert table:

• Simple Elegance: These cupcakes combine sophistication and fun, making them ideal for both casual and formal occasions.
• Rich and Creamy: The mascarpone frosting is smooth and luxurious, perfectly complementing the espresso-infused cake.
• Portion-Controlled: Unlike a full tiramisu, cupcakes are individually sized, so no slicing is needed.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare these cupcakes a day ahead, as the flavors intensify over time.

Key Ingredients

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor and texture in these tiramisu cupcakes. Let’s break them down:

• Flour: Provides the structure for the cupcakes. All-purpose flour works best for a tender crumb.
• Sugar: Sweetens the cupcakes and balances the bitterness of the coffee.
• Eggs: Essential for creating a light, fluffy texture and binding the batter.
• Butter: Adds richness and moisture to the cupcakes. You can substitute with oil for a softer texture.
• Espresso: Soaks into the cupcakes, mimicking the signature coffee layer of tiramisu. Instant coffee dissolved in water works well too.
• Mascarpone Cheese: The star of the frosting! This creamy Italian cheese adds authenticity and richness to the topping. If unavailable, cream cheese can be a substitute, though it alters the flavor slightly.
• Heavy Cream: Whipped into the frosting for lightness and stability.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile of the cupcakes and frosting.
• Cocoa Powder: A finishing dusting of cocoa ties everything together and adds a touch of elegance.

Additional Details:

• Serving Time: 30 minutes (including assembly).
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes.
• Calories Per Serving: Approximately 280 calories per cupcake.

Ingredients List for This Tiramisu cupcake

The Cupcakes:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup milk

For the Coffee Syrup:

• 1 cup brewed espresso (or strong coffee)
• 2 tbsp sugar

For the Mascarpone Frosting:

• 1 cup mascarpone cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Garnish:

• Unsweetened cocoa powder
• Optional: Chocolate shavings or coffee beans

Step-by-Step Instructions for This Tiramisu cupcake

Preheat and Prepare the Oven

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures an even baking temperature for your cupcakes. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners to prevent sticking.
   • Pro Tip: If you want crisp, defined cupcake edges, use foil liners instead of paper ones.

Make the Cupcake Batter

1. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures even distribution of the leavening agent, resulting in a uniform rise.
   • Tip: Sift the flour for an extra-light cupcake texture.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and sugar on medium-high speed until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes). This step incorporates air into the batter, which helps the cupcakes rise.
   • Tip: If your butter isn’t soft, microwave it for 10 seconds or leave it at room temperature for 30 minutes before starting.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Crack in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to prevent curdling. Stir in the vanilla extract for an added depth of flavor.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients to ensure the batter stays smooth. Use a spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl to incorporate everything evenly.
   • Tip: Avoid overmixing, as it can lead to dense cupcakes. Stop mixing as soon as the ingredients are just combined.
5. Fill the Cupcake Liners: Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about ⅔ full to allow space for rising.
   • Tip: Use an ice cream scoop for consistent portion sizes.
6. Bake the Cupcakes: Place the cupcake tin on the center rack of your oven and bake for 18-20 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of a cupcake; it should come out clean. Remove the cupcakes from the oven and let them cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Coffee Syrup

1. Brew Strong Espresso: Brew 1 cup of espresso or very strong coffee. If you don’t have an espresso machine, dissolve 1-2 teaspoons of instant coffee in 1 cup of boiling water.
   Tip: Use decaf coffee if you’re making these for kids or serving them in the evening.
2. Dissolve Sugar: While the coffee is still hot, stir in the sugar until completely dissolved. Let the syrup cool to room temperature before using, as hot syrup can make the cupcakes soggy.

Whip Up the Mascarpone Frosting

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Ensure the mascarpone and cream are cold to help the frosting whip up faster.
   Tip: Don’t skip the powdered sugar; it helps stabilize the frosting.
2. Whip the Frosting: Use an electric mixer on medium speed to beat the frosting until stiff peaks form. This takes about 3-4 minutes. Be careful not to overwhip, as the mascarpone can break and become grainy.
3. Transfer to a Piping Bag: Scoop the frosting into a piping bag fitted with a star or round tip. Refrigerate the frosting for 10-15 minutes if it seems too soft to pipe.

Assemble the Cupcakes

1. Soak the Cupcakes: Use a fork or toothpick to poke several small holes in the top of each cupcake. Spoon 1-2 teaspoons of the cooled coffee syrup over each cupcake, letting it soak in gradually. Repeat if needed to ensure the coffee flavor is noticeable but not overwhelming.
   Tip: Avoid drenching the cupcakes, as too much liquid can make them mushy.
2. Pipe the Frosting: Hold the piping bag vertically and pipe the mascarpone frosting onto the center of each cupcake in a spiral motion. Start at the outer edge and work your way up to create a swirl.
3. Dust with Cocoa Powder: Place a small amount of unsweetened cocoa powder in a fine-mesh sieve and lightly dust the frosting. This adds a touch of bitterness to balance the sweetness.
4. Optional Garnishes: Top each cupcake with chocolate shavings or a whole coffee bean for extra flair.

Variations

• Dietary Substitutions: Use gluten-free flour for a celiac-friendly version, or swap mascarpone for a plant-based cream cheese to make it dairy-free.
• Flavor Twists: Add a teaspoon of coffee liqueur (non-alcoholic coffee flavoring works too) to the coffee syrup for extra depth.
• Chocolate Lovers: Mix mini chocolate chips into the batter or drizzle melted chocolate over the frosting. You can try a similar idea with our Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe Without Brown Sugar.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve these cupcakes alongside a cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate pairing. Add fresh berries on the side for a pop of color and flavor contrast. These cupcakes also pair wonderfully with our Peaches and Cream Oatmeal for a brunch spread.
• Add fresh berries on the side for a pop of color and flavor contrast.
• These cupcakes also pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla or coffee ice cream for an indulgent dessert.

Tips for the Best Tiramisu Cupcakes

Perfecting the Cupcakes

1. Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method for measuring flour to avoid dense cupcakes. Too much flour can make the cupcakes dry.
2. Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring your eggs, butter, and milk to room temperature before starting. This ensures a smoother batter and a better rise.
3. Don’t Overbake: Set a timer and check the cupcakes a minute or two before the lower end of the suggested baking time. Overbaking can dry out the cupcakes.

Enhancing the Coffee Flavor

1. Go Bold with Espresso: For a stronger coffee flavor, use freshly brewed espresso instead of regular coffee.
2. Coffee Syrup Application: Use a pastry brush instead of a spoon to evenly distribute the syrup if you want a lighter coffee flavor.

Frosting Like a Pro

1. Chill the Bowl and Beaters: For the fluffiest frosting, chill your mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer for 10 minutes before whipping the cream.
2. Don’t Overwhip: Stop mixing as soon as stiff peaks form. Overwhipping can cause the cream to separate and the frosting to lose its smooth texture.
3. Make It Ahead: You can prepare the frosting a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and whip it briefly before piping.

Assembly Secrets

1. Cool Completely Before Assembling: Make sure the cupcakes are fully cooled before adding the coffee syrup and frosting, or the frosting may melt.
2. Refrigerate After Assembling: Once assembled, refrigerate the cupcakes for at least an hour to let the flavors meld together.

Storage and Freshness

1. Refrigeration: These cupcakes taste best chilled, so keep them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
2. Freezing: You can freeze unfrosted cupcakes for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and assemble them fresh.

Benefits of This Tiramisu Cupcake Recipe

• Beginner-Friendly: Even if you’re new to baking, this recipe is easy to follow with impressive results.
• Customizable: You can adjust the coffee intensity, sweetness, or garnish to suit your preferences.
• Crowd-Pleasing: These cupcakes are always a hit, whether for a birthday party, bridal shower, or casual coffee date.

FAQS

Why Is It Called Tiramisu Cake?

The name “tiramisu” originates from the Italian phrase “tirami su,” which translates to “pick me up” or “cheer me up.” This refers to both the uplifting combination of flavors in the dessert and its energy-boosting ingredients, including espresso and sugar. When adapted into a cake, the name reflects its inspiration from the traditional tiramisu dessert.

Key Points Behind the Name:

• Italian Roots: Tiramisu is an Italian dessert traditionally made with coffee-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cream, and cocoa powder.
• Energy-Boosting Ingredients: Coffee and sugar provide a “pick-me-up” effect.
• Cake Variation: Tiramisu cake is a modern adaptation of the dessert, incorporating similar flavors into a layered cake form.

How Many Calories Are in a Tiramisu Cupcake?

The calorie count of a tiramisu cupcake can vary depending on the ingredients and portion size. On average, a tiramisu cupcake contains around 200 to 350 calories.

Factors Affecting Calories:

1. Frosting: Mascarpone or cream cheese frosting increases calorie content.
2. Coffee Syrup: Sugar content in the coffee soaking syrup adds to the calorie count.
3. Size: Larger cupcakes or those with generous toppings will have more calories.
4. Additions: Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder are minimal in calories but can add a small amount.

Tip: To reduce calories, you can opt for low-fat mascarpone or use less sugar in the syrup.

Is Tiramisu Cake Taste Good?

Tiramisu cake is widely loved for its rich, creamy, and indulgent flavor. It blends the classic taste of tiramisu with the satisfying texture of a layered cake.

Why Tiramisu Cake Tastes Amazing:

• Flavor Layers: The combination of coffee, mascarpone cream, and cocoa creates a perfect balance of sweetness and bitterness.
• Moist Texture: Coffee-soaked layers ensure the cake remains moist and flavorful.
• Versatility: The cake can be tailored to personal preferences, with options to add vanilla, chocolate, or even caramel.

Verdict: If you enjoy desserts with a coffee flavor and creamy texture, tiramisu cake is an excellent choice.

What’s the Difference Between Tiramisu and Tiramisu Cake?

While both share similar flavors and ingredients, there are key differences between tiramisu and tiramisu cake.

Tiramisu (Traditional Dessert):

• Form: A no-bake dessert made with layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cream, and cocoa powder.
• Texture: Soft and creamy with a light, airy consistency.
• Assembly: Requires refrigeration to set but involves no baking.

Tiramisu Cake:

• Form: A baked, layered sponge cake inspired by tiramisu flavors.
• Texture: Denser than traditional tiramisu due to the cake layers.
• Preparation: Involves baking cake layers, which are then soaked in coffee syrup and layered with mascarpone frosting.

Summary: Tiramisu is a no-bake dessert, while tiramisu cake incorporates cake layers and baking for a more structured presentation. Both are delicious, but the cake offers a heartier twist on the classic.

Conclusion

Tiramisu cupcakes are a delightful fusion of classic Italian flavors and modern convenience. With their rich espresso-soaked cake, fluffy mascarpone frosting, and elegant cocoa dusting, they are sure to become your new favorite dessert. Perfect for any occasion, these cupcakes are easy to make and even easier to enjoy.

Give this recipe a try and let us know how they turn out! Share your creations with friends, on social media, or in the comments below. Happy baking!