Tiramisu Cupcakes – Espresso-Infused, Creamy Frosting

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that’s both fun to make and even more enjoyable to eat, these Tiramisu Cupcakes – Espresso-Infused, Creamy Frosting are the perfect choice! Imagine soft, espresso-kissed cupcakes topped with an airy mascarpone cream—everything you love about traditional tiramisu, but in a bite-sized treat. It’s a recipe that brings smiles at family gatherings, adds a touch of elegance to dinner parties, or simply brightens a busy weeknight. Trust me, once you share these cupcakes with friends or family, they’ll be asking for the recipe!

What makes this recipe truly special is its balance of flavors and textures. The rich espresso flavor paired with the creamy frosting will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, you’ll find these cupcakes are quick to whip up.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves chocolate and coffee! These treats are sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can bake the cupcakes in advance and frost them just before serving for a fresh delight.
• Deliciously customizable: Feel free to play around with flavors or toppings to make this dessert your own.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For these delicious Tiramisu Cupcakes – Espresso-Infused, Creamy Frosting, you’ll only need some simple and wholesome ingredients. Don’t worry if you’re not an expert baker; I promise this recipe is easy enough for anyone to follow!

For the Cupcakes

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (can swap part with cake flour for lighter crumb)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust if syrup is sweet)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup milk (or buttermilk)
• 1/4 cup espresso or strong coffee, cooled (can replace part of milk)

For the Brushing Syrup

• 1/2 cup espresso (for brushing warm cupcakes)
• 2–3 Tbsp granulated sugar (to taste)

For the Frosting

• 8 oz mascarpone cheese (cold, then softened slightly)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (kept cold for whipping)
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar (or to taste)
• 1 pinch fine salt (optional)

For the Finishing Touches

• 1–2 Tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)
• chocolate curls or coffee beans (optional garnish)

Variations

This Tiramisu Cupcakes recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are a few fun variations that can add your personal touch:

• Add a flavor twist: Consider mixing in some vanilla extract or a hint of almond extract into the batter for extra depth.
• Try different toppings: Instead of cocoa powder, top with crushed nuts or even sprinkles for added texture and color.
• Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to accommodate dietary needs.

How to Make Tiramisu Cupcakes – Espresso-Infused, Creamy Frosting

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

Cream together 1/2 cup softened butter and 3/4 cup sugar until fluffy, about 2–3 minutes. This step creates air in the mixture which helps your cupcakes rise beautifully! Beat in each of the two eggs one at a time until fully incorporated. In another bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients: 1 1/4 cups flour, 1 tsp baking powder, and 1/4 tsp salt.

Next, combine your wet ingredients by mixing together 1/2 cup milk and 1/4 cup cooled espresso. Gradually alternate adding the dry mixture and wet mixture into the butter mixture just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want tender cupcakes!

Step 2: Bake the Cupcakes

Line a 12-cup muffin tin with liners and fill them about two-thirds full with batter. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted into the center. Let them cool in the pan for about five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack—this helps keep them moist!

Step 3: Brush with Espresso Syrup

In a small saucepan over low heat, combine 1/2 cup espresso with 2–3 tablespoons sugar until dissolved. Brush this syrup lightly over warm cupcake tops so they soak up all that delicious flavor! It gives each bite that classic tiramisu taste.

Step 4: Make the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat 8 oz mascarpone cheese until smooth. Gradually drizzle in your cold heavy cream while whipping it all together until you reach soft peaks. Then gently fold in about 1/2 cup powdered sugar. If you like your frosting less sweet, feel free to adjust this amount. Remember not to overwhip; we want that light texture!

Step 5: Frost and Garnish

Once your cupcakes are completely cool, pipe or spread on that luscious frosting. Dust them lightly with unsweetened cocoa powder using a fine sieve for that classic finish. If you’re feeling fancy, add some chocolate curls or coffee beans on top as an optional garnish.

Enjoy these delightful Tiramisu Cupcakes – Espresso-Infused, Creamy Frosting as they bring joy and sweetness into any occasion!

Pro Tips for Making Tiramisu Cupcakes – Espresso-Infused, Creamy Frosting

Baking can be a delightful experience, and with these simple tips, you’ll create the perfect tiramisu cupcakes that will impress your friends and family!

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow your eggs and butter to reach room temperature before mixing. This helps them blend more smoothly, resulting in a lighter cupcake texture.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Once you combine the dry and wet ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes, so it’s best to keep it gentle.
• Taste Your Espresso Syrup: Adjust the sweetness of your espresso syrup according to your preference. This step is crucial as it enhances the flavor of the cupcakes without making them overly sweet.
• Chill Your Mascarpone Cheese: Starting with cold mascarpone makes whipping easier and results in a creamier frosting. Just let it soften slightly before use for optimal texture.
• Dust Just Before Serving: For that perfect cocoa dusting, wait until you’re ready to serve. This keeps the cocoa powder fresh and prevents it from absorbing moisture from the frosting.

How to Serve Tiramisu Cupcakes – Espresso-Infused, Creamy Frosting

Presenting your tiramisu cupcakes beautifully will make them even more inviting! Whether it’s for a dinner party or a cozy family gathering, you can elevate their charm with these serving suggestions.

Garnishes

• Chocolate Curls: Add an elegant touch by sprinkling chocolate curls on top of your cupcakes. They not only look fantastic but also enhance the chocolate flavor.
• Coffee Beans: A single coffee bean perched atop each cupcake adds a rustic yet chic appearance, hinting at the delightful espresso flavor within.
• Mint Leaves: Fresh mint leaves add a pop of color and a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the cupcakes.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream complements the rich flavors of tiramisu cupcakes beautifully, offering a delightful contrast in temperatures and textures.
• Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad provides a refreshing counterpoint to the sweetness of the cupcakes. Opt for seasonal fruits like berries or citrus for added brightness.
• Espresso or Coffee: Serve with a cup of freshly brewed espresso or coffee to enhance the overall coffee experience. The warmth will also balance out the sweetness of the dessert.
• Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites are another great pairing; their tanginess balances well with the sweetness of tiramisu cupcakes, making for an indulgent dessert spread.

With these tips and serving ideas, you’re all set to create an unforgettable treat that everyone will love! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Tiramisu Cupcakes are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time and store them for a delightful treat whenever you crave something sweet. Here’s how to store and preserve their deliciousness:

Storing Leftovers

• Keep cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• If the weather is warm or humid, refrigerate them to maintain frosting quality, consuming within 5 days.

Freezing

• Wrap individual cupcakes tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag.
• Store for up to 2 months. To enjoy, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating

• For a warm cupcake experience, microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
• Avoid overheating to prevent drying out; just enough to warm through.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about these delightful cupcakes!

Can I make Tiramisu Cupcakes – Espresso-Infused, Creamy Frosting without espresso?

Absolutely! You can substitute espresso with strong brewed coffee or even a caffeine-free alternative if preferred. Just ensure it’s cooled before mixing.

How do I store Tiramisu Cupcakes – Espresso-Infused, Creamy Frosting?

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them as described above!

Can I use different frosting on my tiramisu cupcakes?

Yes! While mascarpone frosting is classic, feel free to experiment with whipped cream or even a chocolate ganache for a unique twist.

What can I use instead of granulated sugar in this recipe?

You can substitute granulated sugar with coconut sugar, honey (adjust liquid ingredients), or a sugar substitute that measures like sugar if you’re looking for a lower-calorie option.

How do I prevent my frosting from deflating?

Make sure your heavy cream is cold before whipping, and avoid overwhipping after adding powdered sugar. This will help maintain that luscious stability!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in baking these Tiramisu Cupcakes! They perfectly capture the essence of traditional tiramisu but in a fun, handheld form. Whether you’re sharing them at a gathering or enjoying one as an afternoon treat, they’re sure to bring a smile. Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and sharing love through food—so have fun making these cupcakes and savor every bite!