Tiramisu Cupcakes: The Perfect Fusion of Cake and Classic Italian Dessert

Tiramisu is one of those desserts that feels both luxurious and nostalgic—a velvety mascarpone cream layered with espresso-soaked ladyfingers. Now imagine all of that dreamy indulgence in cupcake form. That’s exactly what these Tiramisu Cupcakes deliver.

With a soft vanilla cupcake base, a rich coffee soak, and a fluffy mascarpone whipped frosting, these are everything you love about the traditional Italian treat—just bite-sized and perfectly party-ready.

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Why I Love This Recipe

I’m a sucker for desserts that bridge the gap between comforting and fancy, and these cupcakes strike that balance beautifully. They look like they came from a bakery display, but the steps are totally doable in your home kitchen—no piping skills required.

The coffee soak adds depth, the mascarpone frosting brings that signature tiramisu creaminess, and the dusting of cocoa powder ties it all together with a hint of chocolatey finish. They’re perfect for special occasions, but let’s be honest—I’d make them for a Tuesday just because.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Cupcakes

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup milk

Coffee Soak

• 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
• 1 tablespoon coffee liqueur (optional)
• 1 tablespoon sugar

Mascarpone Frosting

• 8 oz mascarpone cheese, chilled
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting

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Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

• Coffee Liqueur: Optional but highly recommended for that classic tiramisu flavor. Kahlúa works great.
• Mascarpone Substitute: While nothing truly replicates mascarpone, a mix of cream cheese and whipped cream can work in a pinch.
• Cocoa Powder: Dutch-process gives a deeper flavor and color, but natural is fine too.

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How to Make Tiramisu Cupcakes

1. Preheat & Prep:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. Dry Ingredients:
   In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cream Butter & Sugar:
   In a separate large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla.
4. Alternate Mixing:
   Add the flour mixture in three parts, alternating with milk. Begin and end with flour. Mix until just combined.
5. Bake:
   Spoon the batter into the liners, filling each about 2/3 full. Bake for 18–20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely.
6. Make the Coffee Soak:
   Mix the brewed coffee, sugar, and liqueur (if using). Once cupcakes are cool, brush the tops generously with the coffee mixture.
7. Make the Frosting:
   In a chilled bowl, beat mascarpone, cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until thick, fluffy, and pipeable (about 2–3 minutes).
8. Frost & Finish:
   Pipe or spoon frosting onto each cupcake. Dust with cocoa powder right before serving.

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Tips for Success

• Use Cold Mascarpone: It whips better and holds structure for frosting.
• Don’t Over-Soak: A few brushes of coffee on top is plenty—too much can make the cupcakes soggy.
• Chill the Frosted Cupcakes: For 15–20 minutes if you want that perfect bite with creamy frosting and firm cake.
• Use a Sifter: To get that delicate dusting of cocoa powder on top.

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Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Tiramisu cupcakes are elegant enough for a dinner party but easy enough for a casual dessert table. Pair them with:

• A crisp glass of prosecco or creamy cappuccino.
• A refreshing drink like Blueberry Lemonade.
• A fancy appetizer like Baked Brie to start the evening on a high note.

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Storage & Leftover Tips

• Fridge: Store frosted cupcakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Serve Chilled or Room Temp: These are delicious cold, but even better if you let them sit out for 10 minutes before eating.
• Don’t Freeze Frosted Cupcakes: The mascarpone doesn’t freeze well. You can freeze unfrosted cupcakes and add the topping later.

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More Recipes You’ll Love

Craving more sweet indulgence? Check out these dreamy desserts from the blog:

• Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs
• Rainbow Sprinkle Cookies
• Old-School No-Bake Cookies
• Baked Brie Appetizer
• Blueberry Lemonade

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Final Thoughts

These Tiramisu Cupcakes are proof that classic desserts can shine in new forms. They bring together the elegance of Italian cuisine with the fun of handheld sweets—and they’re surprisingly easy to make.

Tried this recipe? I’d love to see your cupcakes! Share your pics or tag @chefmaniac and let us know how they turned out. Don’t forget to follow for more dessert inspiration and feel-good food!