These Mini Tiramisu Cups are a delightful no-bake Italian dessert that comes together in just 15 minutes. Featuring layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and a light mascarpone cream, each cup offers a perfect blend of rich espresso flavor and creamy sweetness. Ideal for individual servings, these cups are perfect for summer gatherings or any occasion that calls for a sweet treat.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Tiramisu Cups:

200 g (about 1 cup) ladyfingers (store-bought)
300 g (1⅓ cups) mascarpone cheese (41% fat), cold
240 g (1 cup) heavy cream (36% fat), very cold
70 g (½ cup) powdered sugar, sifted

For Assembling:

1 cup strong espresso coffee, lightly sweetened
Unsweetened Dutch-processed cocoa powder, for dusting
Additional ladyfingers, for decoration

Directions

Prepare the Mascarpone Cream:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cold mascarpone cheese, cold heavy cream, and sifted powdered sugar.
- Using an electric hand mixer, whip the mixture for 1-2 minutes until it becomes creamy and fluffy. Be careful not to overwhip.
Soak the Ladyfingers:
- Brew strong espresso coffee and allow it to cool slightly.
- Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee for a couple of seconds, ensuring they are soaked but not soggy.
Assemble the Cups:
- In individual serving cups or jars, place a layer of coffee-soaked ladyfingers at the bottom.
- Pipe or spoon a layer of the mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers.
- Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of mascarpone cream on top.
Chill and Serve:
- Smooth the top layer with an offset spatula or spoon.
- Refrigerate the assembled tiramisu cups for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.
- Before serving, dust the tops with unsweetened cocoa powder and garnish with additional ladyfingers if desired.

Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 5 servings)

Calories: 580 kcal
Carbohydrates: 40 g
Protein: 10 g
Fat: 48 g
- Saturated Fat: 29 g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1 g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 6 g
Cholesterol: 203 mg
Sodium: 106 mg
Potassium: 114 mg
Fiber: 0.4 g
Sugar: 1 g
Vitamin A: 1768 IU
Vitamin C: 0.3 mg
Calcium: 135 mg
Iron: 1 mg

The Origins of Tiramisu

Tiramisu, which means “pick me up” in Italian, is a classic dessert believed to have originated in the Veneto region of Italy during the 1960s. The dessert consists of layers of coffee-dipped ladyfingers, rich mascarpone cheese, whipped cream, and cocoa powder. Some accounts suggest that tiramisu was created in the city of Treviso, while others attribute its creation to various chefs around Italy. Regardless of its origins, it has become one of the most beloved desserts worldwide.

Tiramisu gained popularity for its luxurious flavor and light texture. The combination of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, smooth mascarpone cream, and a dusting of cocoa powder delivers a balanced experience that’s both rich and refreshing. Over time, many variations of the dish have emerged, from fruit-infused tiramisu to tiramisu with different types of alcohol or flavorings. The Mini Tiramisu Cups are one such variation, providing a fun and modern take on the traditional dessert.

Why Mini Tiramisu Cups?

Mini Tiramisu Cups offer several advantages over the traditional large dessert. For one, individual servings allow for easy portion control, which is especially helpful for serving guests at a party or event. No need to worry about cutting the perfect slice or making a mess—just grab a cup and enjoy. These small servings are also convenient for transportation, whether you’re bringing dessert to a potluck, picnic, or family gathering.

Additionally, Mini Tiramisu Cups are an excellent way to elevate any celebration. Their elegant presentation in small, clear cups or jars adds a touch of sophistication, making them perfect for upscale events such as weddings, anniversary parties, or formal dinners. The visually appealing layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cream, and cocoa powder make for an Instagram-worthy treat that will impress both the eyes and the taste buds.

The Key Ingredients in Tiramisu

Though the recipe for Mini Tiramisu Cups is simplified compared to the classic version, it still retains the essential components that define this Italian favorite. The key ingredients include ladyfingers, mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, espresso, and cocoa powder. Each ingredient serves a unique purpose to create the dessert’s characteristic flavor and texture.

Ladyfingers: These light, airy sponge cakes are the backbone of tiramisu. They absorb the espresso without becoming soggy, providing the perfect balance between soft and firm. If you can’t find traditional ladyfingers, sponge cake or biscuits can be used as alternatives, but ladyfingers are the best choice for achieving the traditional texture.
Mascarpone Cheese: This creamy cheese is the heart of the mascarpone filling. Mascarpone has a rich, velvety texture that provides the perfect base for the creamy layer of the tiramisu. It is subtly sweet and has a high fat content, contributing to the luxurious mouthfeel of the dessert.
Heavy Cream: When whipped, heavy cream adds lightness and volume to the mascarpone filling. The cream helps balance out the richness of the mascarpone, making the dessert feel airy and not overly heavy. The combination of mascarpone and whipped cream creates the signature creamy consistency.
Espresso: The coffee-soaked ladyfingers are what give tiramisu its name—“pick me up” refers to the energizing boost you get from the coffee. Espresso is the best choice for soaking the ladyfingers, as it provides a rich, concentrated flavor that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the mascarpone cream. Make sure to brew your espresso fresh for the best flavor.
Cocoa Powder: A light dusting of cocoa powder on top of the finished tiramisu adds a final touch of bitterness that balances out the sweetness of the mascarpone cream and the coffee. The cocoa powder enhances the dessert’s depth of flavor and gives it that classic tiramisu look.

The Versatility of Mini Tiramisu Cups

One of the great things about Mini Tiramisu Cups is their versatility. While the classic version is simple and delicious, you can easily customize these cups to suit your preferences or the occasion. Here are a few ways to personalize your mini tiramisu cups:

Flavors: While traditional tiramisu uses coffee and cocoa, you can experiment with different flavors. For example, you can use flavored syrups such as vanilla, hazelnut, or caramel to add extra sweetness and complexity. Fruit-flavored tiramisu cups are another fun variation—consider using fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries to layer in between the mascarpone cream for a refreshing twist.
Alcohol: Many traditional tiramisu recipes call for a splash of alcohol, such as rum, Marsala wine, or coffee liqueur. You can choose to add a small amount of alcohol to the mascarpone cream or mix it with the coffee for soaking the ladyfingers. For a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the alcohol, and the recipe will still be delicious.
Decorations: The topping of your Mini Tiramisu Cups can be as simple or elaborate as you like. You can keep it traditional with a light dusting of cocoa powder or get creative with shaved chocolate, a drizzle of caramel, or even whipped cream swirls. The possibilities are endless when it comes to decorating these cups, making them perfect for themed events or special occasions.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Mini Tiramisu Cups are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. They are the perfect dessert for a variety of occasions:

Casual Gatherings: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, a casual get-together with friends, or a family meal, these individual servings are convenient and satisfying. Their easy portability makes them a great choice for picnics, potlucks, or barbecues.
Holidays and Celebrations: Tiramisu is a luxurious dessert that fits beautifully into any holiday meal, from Christmas to Easter, Thanksgiving to New Year’s Eve. The small cups are also ideal for more formal occasions like weddings, anniversaries, and birthdays, where guests can enjoy a portion without the need for serving large slices.
Seasonal Variations: Mini Tiramisu Cups can be adapted for different seasons. For example, in the summer, you could use a berry-infused mascarpone filling for a fresh and fruity twist. During the holidays, you might try a spiced version with cinnamon and nutmeg, adding a festive flavor to your dessert.

Conclusion

Mini Tiramisu Cups offer a wonderful, elegant spin on a classic Italian dessert. Their convenience, versatility, and rich flavor make them perfect for any event, from casual family dinners to formal weddings. With a combination of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone, and a dusting of cocoa powder, these individual desserts are as satisfying as they are visually appealing.

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