Mini Tiramisu Cups Recipe

The Dreamiest Mini Tiramisu Cups Recipe for Coffee Lovers

Crafting delightful mini tiramisu cups brings a touch of italian elegance to your dessert repertoire.

Sweet mascarpone cheese blends perfectly with delicate coffee-soaked ladyfingers.

Layers of creamy goodness create a miniature dessert that looks impressive yet remains simple to prepare.

Chocolate dusting adds a rich complexity to each small serving.

Portable and charming, these cups work wonderfully for dinner parties or intimate gatherings.

Guests will appreciate the sophisticated flavor profile packed into such a compact treat.

Whip up these irresistible mini delights and watch everyone’s eyes light up with pure culinary joy.

Why Mini Tiramisu Cups Are So Tempting

  • Craft Personal Delights: Create individual tiramisu cups that transform a classic dessert into personalized, elegant servings perfect for intimate gatherings or special moments.
  • Master Layered Complexity: Build multiple delicate tiers of soaked ladyfingers and rich mascarpone cream, allowing each spoonful to deliver a harmonious blend of coffee, cream, and wine-infused flavors.
  • Impress Without Stress: Prepare a sophisticated dessert that looks professionally crafted but requires minimal technical skills, making it accessible for home cooks of all experience levels.
  • Quick Crowd-Pleaser: Assemble these mini desserts in advance, giving you extra time to enjoy your guests while presenting a visually stunning and delectable treat that sparks conversation and delight.

What You’ll Need For Mini Tiramisu Cups

Coffee Base:
  • Brewed Coffee: A robust and aromatic coffee that provides the foundational flavor for the tiramisu.
  • Water: Essential liquid for brewing the coffee.
Alcohol Mixture:
  • Marsala Wine, Rum, Vanilla Extract: A flavorful liquid blend that adds depth and complexity to the soaked cookies.
Cookies:
  • Ladyfinger Cookies: Delicate sponge cookies that create the classic tiramisu base and absorb the alcohol mixture.
Cream Ingredients:
  • Egg Yolks, Granulated Sugar: The base for creating a smooth and creamy custard-like mixture.
  • Mascarpone Cheese: A rich, soft Italian cheese that provides a luxurious and creamy texture to the dessert.
  • Egg Whites: Whipped to stiff peaks to add lightness and airiness to the mascarpone mixture.
Topping Ingredients:
  • Heavy Cream, Powdered Sugar: Whipped together to create a soft and fluffy cream topping.
  • Cocoa Powder: Used for dusting and adding a classic tiramisu finish.
  • Dark Chocolate: Shaved and used as a decorative and flavorful garnish.

How To Put Together Mini Tiramisu Cups

Step 1: Brew Rich Coffee

Prepare a bold, full-bodied coffee and let it cool completely. The coffee will be the flavor foundation for your delightful dessert.

Step 2: Separate Egg Components

Carefully divide egg yolks and whites into separate mixing bowls, setting the stage for a creamy mascarpone mixture.

Step 3: Create Sweet Egg Base

Whisk egg yolks with sugar until the mixture becomes light and creamy, transforming into a smooth, pale consistency.

Step 4: Blend Mascarpone Cream

Gently fold mascarpone cheese into the egg yolk mixture, creating a silky, luxurious cream with perfect consistency.

Step 5: Whip Fluffy Egg Whites

Beat egg whites until they form stiff, glossy peaks. Carefully fold them into the mascarpone mixture to maintain a light, airy texture.

Step 6: Prepare Soaking Liquid

Combine in a shallow dish:
  • Marsala wine
  • Rum
  • Vanilla extract

This flavorful liquid will enhance the cookie layers.

Step 7: Soak Ladyfinger Cookies

Quickly dip ladyfinger cookies into the alcohol mixture. Ensure they’re moistened but not overly soggy.

Step 8: Create First Cookie Layer

Place the soaked cookies at the bottom of individual serving cups, forming a compact base.

Step 9: Add Mascarpone Layer

Spread a generous layer of mascarpone cream over the cookies, creating an even, creamy coating.

Step 10: Build Dessert Layers

Repeat the layering process with additional soaked cookies and mascarpone cream, creating multiple delicate tiers.

Step 11: Chill and Set

Refrigerate the tiramisu cups for at least 4 hours, allowing flavors to meld and texture to firm up.

Step 12: Prepare Whipped Cream

Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft, billowy peaks form.

Step 13: Dust with Cocoa

Sprinkle cocoa powder over the chilled desserts using a fine mesh sieve for an elegant touch.

Step 14: Add Final Garnishes

Top with dark chocolate shavings and a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Step 15: Serve and Enjoy

Present the chilled mini tiramisu cups, inviting everyone to savor these individual dessert treasures.

Tips For The Best Mini Tiramisu Cups

  • Select High-Quality Coffee: Choose a robust espresso or strong brewed coffee for authentic flavor depth and rich taste profile.
  • Control Cookie Soaking: Dip ladyfingers quickly to prevent soggy texture, ensuring they maintain slight firmness for perfect bite.
  • Stabilize Cream Consistency: Fold mascarpone gently to maintain airy texture, preventing deflation of delicate egg white mixture.
  • Chill for Flavor Fusion: Refrigerate mini cups minimum 4 hours, allowing ingredients to blend and develop intense, harmonious taste experience.
  • Balance Alcohol Ratio: Use marsala and rum sparingly to enhance flavor without overwhelming delicate dessert's nuanced profile.

New Ideas For Mini Tiramisu Cups Layers

  • Chocolate Coffee Cups: Replace ladyfingers with chocolate sponge cake, incorporate dark chocolate into mascarpone cream, and use mocha instead of traditional coffee for intense chocolate-coffee flavor.
  • Fruit Fusion Tiramisu: Swap alcohol mixture with fruit syrup, layer fresh berries between mascarpone cream, and garnish with mixed berry compote for a fruity summer version.
  • Nutty Caramel Edition: Add crushed caramelized pecans between layers, infuse caramel sauce into mascarpone cream, and sprinkle toasted almond slivers on top for extra crunch and richness.
  • Espresso Liqueur Blast: Enhance coffee with strong espresso shots, incorporate coffee liqueur into alcohol mixture, and use espresso-soaked biscotti instead of ladyfingers for a bold, sophisticated variation.

What To Pair With Mini Tiramisu Cups

  • Perfect Espresso Pairing: Choose a bold, freshly brewed espresso with robust notes that complement the tiramisu's rich, creamy texture and enhance its coffee-infused layers.
  • Wine Companion: Select a sweet Marsala wine or a smooth Vin Santo, which mirrors the dessert's alcohol-soaked essence and provides a harmonious flavor balance.
  • Digestif Delight: Enjoy a small glass of amaretto liqueur alongside the mini tiramisu cups, allowing its almond sweetness to highlight the dessert's delicate mascarpone cream and cocoa undertones.
  • Sparkling Contrast: Sip on a crisp, slightly dry prosecco that cuts through the dessert's richness, refreshing the palate with its effervescent and light character.

How To Store Mini Tiramisu Cups Just Right

  • Seal tiramisu cups tightly with plastic wrap or place in an airtight container to preserve freshness for 2-3 days.
  • Wrap each cup individually in plastic wrap, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month, preventing freezer burn.
  • Transfer frozen tiramisu cups to the refrigerator 4-6 hours before serving, allowing gentle and even defrosting.
  • Consume refrigerated tiramisu within 48 hours for optimal taste and texture, avoiding extended storage that might compromise quality.

Mini Tiramisu Cups FAQs

  • What type of coffee works best for this recipe?

Strong, freshly brewed espresso or dark roast coffee provides the most authentic flavor profile for tiramisu, creating a rich and intense base for the dessert.

  • Can I make this recipe without alcohol?

Yes, replace marsala wine and rum with additional coffee or coffee extract to maintain depth of flavor while keeping the recipe non-alcoholic.

  • How do I know when egg whites are perfectly whipped?

Egg whites are ready when they form stiff, glossy peaks that hold their shape and don’t collapse when the whisk is lifted, which typically takes about 3-4 minutes of continuous whisking.

  • Is mascarpone cheese essential or can I substitute it?

Mascarpone is crucial for authentic tiramisu texture and taste. While cream cheese can be used, it won’t provide the same smooth, rich consistency characteristic of traditional tiramisu.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Mini Tiramisu Cups Recipe

Mini Tiramisu Cups Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 33 reviews

  • Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Silky layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone define these Mini Tiramisu Cups, a luxurious Italian dessert that fits perfectly in petite glasses. Rich chocolate dusting and delicate espresso notes create an irresistible dessert experience you’ll savor with each delightful spoonful.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 250 g ladyfinger cookies
  • 250 ml strong coffee
  • 250 ml mascarpone cheese
  • 3 large eggs
  • 100 g granulated sugar

Liquids and Flavoring:

  • 60 ml marsala wine
  • 30 ml rum
  • 15 ml vanilla extract

Garnish and Dusting:

  • 30 g cocoa powder
  • 15 g dark chocolate shavings
  • 10 ml heavy cream (for whipping)
  • 5 g powdered sugar

Instructions

  1. Brew a robust, aromatic coffee and allow it to cool to room temperature, ensuring a strong flavor base for the tiramisu.
  2. Separate egg yolks and whites in two distinct mixing bowls, preparing for the delicate mascarpone cream preparation.
  3. Whisk egg yolks with granulated sugar until the mixture transforms into a pale, creamy consistency, creating a smooth foundation.
  4. Gently fold mascarpone cheese into the egg yolk mixture, blending until a silky, uniform texture emerges.
  5. Whip egg whites to stiff peaks, then carefully incorporate them into the mascarpone mixture, maintaining a light, airy structure.
  6. Combine marsala wine, rum, and vanilla extract in a shallow dish, creating a flavorful liquid for cookie soaking.
  7. Briefly dip ladyfinger cookies into the alcohol mixture, ensuring they are moistened but not overly saturated.
  8. Layer the soaked cookies at the bottom of individual serving cups, creating a compact base.
  9. Generously spread the mascarpone cream over the cookie layer, creating an even, luxurious coating.
  10. Repeat the layering process with additional soaked cookies and mascarpone cream, building multiple delicate tiers.
  11. Refrigerate the tiramisu cups for at least 4 hours, allowing flavors to meld and texture to set.
  12. Before serving, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form.
  13. Dust the chilled tiramisu cups with cocoa powder using a fine mesh sieve for an elegant finish.
  14. Garnish with dark chocolate shavings and a dollop of whipped cream, adding visual and textural complexity.
  15. Serve chilled, inviting guests to indulge in these individual dessert masterpieces.

Notes

  • Keep coffee strong and robust to maintain the traditional tiramisu flavor profile, ensuring it’s freshly brewed and cooled completely.
  • Use room temperature ingredients for smoother mascarpone cream and better ingredient integration, preventing lumpy textures.
  • Avoid over-soaking ladyfingers to prevent soggy desserts, quickly dipping cookies to maintain their delicate structure and prevent disintegration.
  • Experiment with alternative liqueurs like amaretto or coffee liqueur for unique flavor variations that complement the classic recipe.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Brewng
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 30 g
  • Sodium: 50 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 7 g
  • Cholesterol: 100 mg
Truc Tran (Kris)

Truc Tran (Kris)

Senior Food Editor

Expertise

Home Cooking, Meal Planning, Recipe Development, Baking and Pastry, Food Editor, Cooking-video Maker, Vietnamese Food Evaluation Expert

Education

  • Hospitality (Commercial Cookery) at TasTAFE
  • Culinary Arts at Kendall College (Australia Branch in Sydney)
  • Vietnamese Cuisine Head Chef at HNAAu School (Vietnam, International Joint Training Program)

Truc Tran (Kris), an experienced food writer and editor, is great at exploring and describing global cuisines, from simple street food to fancy dining. In her writing, she skillfully mixes different flavors, cooking methods, and culinary traditions, showing the unique character of various cultures through their food and drinks. On azcuisines.com, Kris highlights her knowledge, especially in Asian cuisine and worldwide traditional dishes.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star