15-Minute Mini Tiramisu Cups Recipe – Easy & Flavorful

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Why You’ll Love These Tiramisu Cups
• Ingredients for Mini Tiramisu Cups
• How to Make Mini Tiramisu Cups – Step by Step
• Pro Tips for Making the Best Tiramisu Cups
• Best Ways to Serve Mini Tiramisu Cups
• Nutritional Information
• Storage & Leftovers
• FAQs for Mini Tiramisu Cups
• Related Recipes
• Conclusion

Introduction {#introduction}

Are you looking for an elegant yet simple Italian dessert that will impress your guests? These mini tiramisu cups are the perfect solution! This iconic <a href=”https://www.academiabarilla.it/en/italian-recipes/step-by-step-recipes/tiramisu/” rel=”dofollow”>Italian dessert</a> typically requires hours of preparation and setting time, but our convenient single-serving tiramisu portions can be ready in just 30 minutes. The classic combination of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone, and cocoa creates an irresistible treat that’s perfect for dinner parties, special occasions, or whenever you’re craving something sweet and sophisticated.

Why You’ll Love These Tiramisu Cups

• Ready in just 30 minutes! Perfect for last-minute entertaining
• These individual tiramisu desserts are portion-controlled and elegant for individual serving
• No baking required – ideal for hot summer days
• Perfect make-ahead dessert – actually tastes better after chilling overnight
• Great for beginners – much easier than traditional tiramisu
• Impressive presentation with minimal effort
• Customizable with different flavors and toppings
• These personal tiramisu portions are the best way to enjoy the classic flavor without committing to a large dessert

Ingredients for Mini Tiramisu Cups

For the Coffee Mixture:

• 1 cup strong brewed espresso or very strong coffee, cooled (see <a href=”https://www.nationalgeographic.com/culture/article/how-to-make-the-perfect-espresso” rel=”dofollow”>how to brew perfect espresso</a>)
• 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa) or rum (optional)
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

For the Mascarpone Cream:

• 8 oz (1 cup) mascarpone cheese, room temperature
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 large egg yolks (pasteurized for food safety)

For Assembly:

• 12-15 ladyfinger cookies (savoiardi), broken to fit your cups
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder for dusting
• Dark chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)
• Fresh berries for garnish (optional)

For a dairy-free option, substitute mascarpone with dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream instead of heavy cream. See <a href=”https://www.thespruceeats.com/dairy-free-italian-desserts-1001623″ rel=”dofollow”>dairy-free Italian desserts</a> for more ideas.

For an alcohol-free version, simply omit the coffee liqueur or rum and add 1 teaspoon of vanilla to the coffee mixture instead.

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How to Make Mini Tiramisu Cups – Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Coffee Mixture

1. In a shallow bowl, combine the cooled espresso or strong coffee with the coffee liqueur (if using) and 1 tablespoon sugar.
2. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.
3. Set aside to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Mascarpone Cream

1. In a large bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese with 1/3 cup sugar until smooth and creamy.
2. In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
3. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture using a rubber spatula. Be careful not to deflate the cream.

Step 3: Assemble the Individual Tiramisu Desserts

1. Break the ladyfinger cookies into pieces that will fit your serving glasses or cups.
2. Quickly dip each ladyfinger piece into the coffee mixture (about 1-2 seconds on each side) – don’t soak them too long or they’ll fall apart!
3. Place a layer of soaked ladyfingers at the bottom of each serving cup.
4. Add a generous layer of the mascarpone cream mixture (about 2 tablespoons) over the ladyfingers.
5. Add another layer of coffee-dipped ladyfingers.
6. Top with another layer of mascarpone cream.
7. Dust the top with cocoa powder using a small sieve or strainer.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

1. Refrigerate these tiramisu dessert cups for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together.
2. Just before serving, dust with additional cocoa powder and garnish with chocolate shavings or fresh berries if desired.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Tiramisu Cups

• Don’t oversoak the ladyfingers! The secret to perfect tiramisu is to dip the ladyfingers quickly (1-2 seconds per side) in the coffee mixture. If they’re too soggy, your dessert will be wet and mushy. Learn more about <a href=”https://www.seriouseats.com/best-tiramisu-recipe” rel=”dofollow”>proper ladyfinger technique</a> from professional chefs.
• Use freshly brewed, strong espresso for the most authentic flavor.
• Make sure your mascarpone is at room temperature to prevent lumps in your cream. Check out this <a href=”https://www.finedininglovers.com/article/all-about-mascarpone-cheese” rel=”dofollow”>guide to working with mascarpone</a> for more tips.
• For a boozy kick, add 1-2 tablespoons of Marsala wine, dark rum, or coffee liqueur to your mascarpone mixture.
• For extra stability in your cream, whip 1 tablespoon of unflavored gelatin (bloomed in 2 tablespoons of water) into your mixture.
• Use clear glasses or cups to showcase the beautiful layers of your individual desserts.

Best Ways to Serve Mini Tiramisu Cups

The best way to serve these individual Italian desserts is chilled, straight from the refrigerator. These elegant single-serving treats create a wow factor with minimal effort. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Pair with a shot of espresso for an authentic Italian experience
• Serve with fresh berries on top for a colorful contrast
• Add a small piece of chocolate-covered espresso bean as a garnish
• For a dinner party, present on a serving tray with small dessert spoons
• Accompany with a glass of dessert wine like Vin Santo or Moscato d’Asti
• Serve as part of a dessert buffet alongside our [Chocolate Panna Cotta] or [Italian Cannoli]

Nutritional Information for Mini Tiramisu Cups

(Per serving, based on 6 servings)

• Calories: 380 kcal
• Total Fat: 29g
• Saturated Fat: 17g
• Cholesterol: 215mg
• Sodium: 95mg
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Sugar: 15g
• Protein: 6g

Note: These values are approximate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.

Storage & Leftovers

These personal tiramisu treats can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually improve after the first day, making this an excellent make-ahead dessert!

How long do tiramisu cups last in the fridge? When properly stored in airtight containers, these individual tiramisu desserts will last 2-3 days in the refrigerator. The texture is best within the first 48 hours.

Can I freeze tiramisu cups? While you can freeze these desserts for up to 2 months, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. If freezing, use freezer-safe containers and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

For best results when reheating (though tiramisu is typically served cold), let them stand at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to take the chill off and enhance the flavors.

FAQs for Mini Tiramisu Cups

Can I make these tiramisu desserts without alcohol?

Absolutely! The coffee liqueur or rum is completely optional. Simply omit it from the coffee mixture and add an extra teaspoon of vanilla extract for flavor depth. The tiramisu will still taste delicious!

What can I use instead of mascarpone cheese in mini tiramisu cups?

If you can’t find mascarpone, you can substitute with 8 oz cream cheese mixed with 2 tablespoons of heavy cream and 1 tablespoon of sour cream. The flavor won’t be exactly the same, but it makes a good alternative for these individual desserts.

Can I make tiramisu cups ahead of time?

Yes! These single-serving Italian desserts actually taste better when made 1 day ahead, as it gives the flavors time to meld together. They can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and kept refrigerated until serving.

Are raw eggs safe to use in tiramisu cups?

Traditional tiramisu uses raw egg yolks, which poses a food safety concern. For safer preparation, use pasteurized eggs, or gently cook the egg yolks with sugar to 160°F (71°C) over a double boiler before adding to the mascarpone mixture. The <a href=”https://www.fda.gov/food/buy-store-serve-safe-food/what-you-need-know-about-egg-safety” rel=”dofollow”>FDA provides guidelines</a> on egg safety that you should follow when preparing desserts with eggs.

Related Recipes

If you love these mini tiramisu cups, try our other delicious Italian-inspired desserts:

• [Classic Tiramisu Cake]
• [Espresso Panna Cotta]
• [Italian Cannoli]
• [Chocolate Affogato]
• [Amaretto Semifreddo]

Conclusion

Now you know how to make the best mini tiramisu cups at home! These elegant, individual portions of the classic Italian dessert are perfect for entertaining or treating yourself to something special. The combination of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone creates an irresistible dessert that looks impressive but is surprisingly simple to make. For more authentic Italian dessert inspiration, check out <a href=”https://www.italia.it/en/italy/food/recipes” rel=”dofollow”>Italy’s official tourism website</a> for traditional recipes. We’d love to hear how your tiramisu cups turned out! Share your experience in the comments below, and don’t forget to tag us on social media with your beautiful creations.

Happy cooking!

Did you try this recipe? Let us know what you think in the comments section below!

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