Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Classic Tiramisu Flavor – A delicious combination of coffee, vanilla, and mascarpone.
- Light and Fluffy Texture – Moist cupcakes that melt in your mouth.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Elegant enough for celebrations yet simple enough for everyday treats.
- Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
- Customizable – Add a dusting of cocoa powder or chocolate shavings for an extra touch.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Cupcakes:
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup buttermilk
For the Coffee Soak:
- ½ cup strong brewed coffee or espresso, cooled
- 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)
For the Mascarpone Frosting:
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Garnish (Optional):
- Cocoa powder for dusting
- Chocolate shavings
Directions
Make the Cupcakes:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt; set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk, mixing until just combined.
- Fill the cupcake liners about ⅔ full with batter.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow cupcakes to cool completely before adding the coffee soak.
Prepare the Coffee Soak:
- Brew strong coffee or espresso and let it cool.
- Stir in the coffee liqueur (if using).
- Using a fork or skewer, poke small holes into the top of each cupcake.
- Brush the coffee mixture over each cupcake, allowing it to absorb.
Make the Mascarpone Frosting:
- In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- In a separate bowl, beat mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully combined.
Assemble the Cupcakes:
- Pipe or spread the mascarpone frosting onto each cupcake.
- Dust with cocoa powder and top with chocolate shavings, if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12 cupcakes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cooling & Assembly Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Variations
- Boozy Tiramisu Cupcakes: Increase the coffee liqueur for a stronger kick.
- Chocolate Twist: Add mini chocolate chips to the batter.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend.
- Dairy-Free Alternative: Substitute coconut milk and vegan butter.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze unfrosted cupcakes for up to 3 months. Thaw before adding the frosting.
- Reheating: Serve chilled or bring to room temperature before eating.
FAQs
Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?
Yes! Bake the cupcakes a day in advance and frost before serving.
What can I use instead of mascarpone?
Cream cheese is a good substitute, but it has a slightly tangier flavor.
Do I have to use coffee liqueur?
No, you can leave it out or replace it with extra coffee.
Can I make mini cupcakes instead?
Yes, adjust the baking time to about 10-12 minutes.
How do I make the frosting firmer?
Chill it for 10-15 minutes before piping.
Can I use store-bought whipped cream?
Freshly whipped heavy cream provides the best texture, but store-bought works in a pinch.
What type of cocoa powder should I use?
Unsweetened cocoa powder is best for a classic tiramisu look.
How do I make the coffee soak stronger?
Use espresso instead of regular coffee for a bolder flavor.
Can I skip the coffee soak?
Yes, but it adds the signature tiramisu flavor.
What can I serve with these cupcakes?
A cup of espresso or a glass of dessert wine pairs beautifully.
Conclusion
Tiramisu Cupcakes are a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert, featuring layers of coffee-infused cake and creamy mascarpone frosting. Perfect for any occasion, these cupcakes bring together elegance and indulgence in every bite. Try them today and enjoy a sweet taste of tiramisu in cupcake form!

Tiramisu Cupcakes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 10-12 Servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Tiramisu Cupcakes bring the classic flavors of tiramisu into a light, fluffy cupcake. Infused with espresso, topped with a creamy mascarpone frosting, and dusted with cocoa powder, they’re the perfect dessert for any occasion. Enjoy the rich taste of Italian tiramisu in a bite-sized treat!
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes:
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup buttermilk
For the Coffee Soak:
- ½ cup strong brewed coffee or espresso, cooled
- 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)
For the Mascarpone Frosting:
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Garnish:
- Cocoa powder for dusting
- Chocolate shavings (optional)
Instructions
Make the Cupcakes:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt; set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk, mixing until just combined.
- Fill cupcake liners ⅔ full with batter.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cupcakes cool completely before adding the coffee soak.
Prepare the Coffee Soak:
- Brew strong coffee or espresso and let it cool.
- Stir in coffee liqueur (if using).
- Using a fork or skewer, poke small holes in the top of each cupcake.
- Brush the coffee mixture over each cupcake and let it absorb.
Make the Mascarpone Frosting:
- Whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- In a separate bowl, beat mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully combined.
Assemble the Cupcakes:
- Pipe or spread mascarpone frosting onto each cupcake.
- Dust with cocoa powder and top with chocolate shavings if desired.
Notes
- For a stronger coffee flavor, use espresso for the soak.
- Chill frosting for 10-15 minutes before piping for a firmer consistency.
- Store in the fridge for up to 3 days; enjoy chilled or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian