Coffee Tiramisu Cups Recipe

Coffee Tiramisu Cups are the most delightful way to enjoy the classic Italian dessert with a playful, individual twist. These creamy, dreamy cups layer coffee-soaked ladyfingers and a billowy mascarpone filling, then finish with a dusting of cocoa — all in perfectly portioned glasses. With their gorgeous layers and bold coffee undertones, Coffee Tiramisu Cups are an irresistible treat for coffee lovers and dessert fans alike. Whether you’re serving them at dinner parties or treating yourself to a little luxury at home, this recipe brings pure joy in every decadent spoonful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Coffee Tiramisu Cups is in their simplicity: each ingredient plays a starring role in creating the luscious texture, rich flavor, and beautiful presentation. Don’t skip the details — every element brings something special to the finished dessert.

• Strong brewed coffee (or espresso): The heart of tiramisu, this gives each bite a bold and aromatic flavor. Cool your coffee so the ladyfingers don’t turn soggy.
• Coffee liqueur (optional, e.g. Kahlúa): A splash of liqueur adds depth and a grown-up twist, but you can leave it out if you prefer these alcohol-free.
• Ladyfinger biscuits (savoiardi): Their airy texture soaks up coffee beautifully without falling apart. Break to fit your cups!
• Mascarpone cheese (softened): Silky-smooth and creamy, mascarpone is classic tiramisu’s magic ingredient. Allow it to soften for easy blending.
• Heavy cream (cold): Whipped cream makes the filling cloud-like. Use chilled cream so it whips to perfect soft peaks.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream filling just enough without making it cloying.
• Vanilla extract: Just a dash enhances the mascarpone’s flavor and adds a lovely aroma.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder: The finishing touch, dusted on top for a chocolaty, slightly bitter accent.
• Chocolate shavings or coffee beans (optional): Add extra flair and texture if you want to get a little fancy.

How to Make Coffee Tiramisu Cups

Step 1: Prepare the Coffee Soak

Start by brewing your favorite strong coffee or pulling a few shots of espresso. Make sure the coffee has cooled completely — if it’s hot, it’ll make the ladyfingers too mushy. Stir in the coffee liqueur if using, then pour the mixture into a shallow dish to make dipping the ladyfingers easy. This is where your Coffee Tiramisu Cups begin their journey of bold, aromatic flavor!

Step 2: Make the Cream Filling

In a mixing bowl, beat the cold heavy cream until soft peaks form; you’re aiming for pillowy clouds, not stiff peaks. In a separate bowl, combine softened mascarpone, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture, being careful not to deflate your lovely whip. This filling will give your cups that classic, silky mouthfeel tiramisu lovers crave.

Step 3: Assemble the Coffee Tiramisu Cups

Now the fun layering begins! Quickly dip each ladyfinger piece into the coffee mixture — just a swift in-and-out, so they’re moist but not falling apart. Place a layer of soaked ladyfingers at the bottom of each cup. Spoon a generous layer of mascarpone cream over the top. Repeat the process, alternating coffee-soaked ladyfingers and cream until the cups are full, finishing with a luscious layer of cream at the very top.

Step 4: Chill to Perfection

The magic happens as these cups chill! Cover them and refrigerate for at least 2–4 hours, or overnight if you have the willpower to wait. This rest lets the flavors mingle and the mascarpone filling firm up, making every bite taste like perfection.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Just before serving, dust the tops generously with unsweetened cocoa powder. Add a sprinkle of chocolate shavings or place a single coffee bean on each cup for that instant wow factor. All that’s left is to grab a spoon and dig in!

How to Serve Coffee Tiramisu Cups

Garnishes

The final flourish sets these Coffee Tiramisu Cups apart. A classic dusting of cocoa powder brings a slight bitter edge that balances the creaminess, while chocolate shavings or a single glossy coffee bean give each cup a touch of elegance. Fresh berries or a mint leaf can add a pop of color if you’re feeling extra creative—personalize each cup to match your mood or the occasion!

Side Dishes

Coffee Tiramisu Cups are rich and decadent, so lighter side dishes work best as accompaniments. Try pairing them with a simple bowl of ripe, sliced strawberries, or a zesty citrus salad to cut through the dessert’s creaminess. For coffee lovers, an espresso shot or cappuccino alongside perfectly complements the tiramisu’s flavor profile and makes for a grown-up sweet treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation can be as fun as eating! Use small clear glasses or sturdy espresso cups for striking layers. For entertaining, try assembling Coffee Tiramisu Cups in miniature jars, which make for easy, portable servings at picnics or parties. You could also use martini glasses for a dramatic touch. Get playful by alternating layers of fruit or adding a swirl of caramel or chocolate sauce to the sides of the glass before building your tiramisu layers.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Coffee Tiramisu Cups actually taste even better after a day in the fridge, as the flavors have more time to meld. Cover each cup with plastic wrap or a tight fitting lid and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, add a fresh dusting of cocoa powder and you’re good to go!

Freezing

If you want to make Coffee Tiramisu Cups ahead for a special event, you can absolutely freeze them. Just cover each cup tightly with plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. Since they contain mascarpone and whipped cream, let them thaw gently in the fridge overnight before serving. This keeps their texture closest to fresh.

Reheating

No need to reheat — Coffee Tiramisu Cups are meant to be enjoyed chilled, straight from the fridge. If frozen, simply thaw in the refrigerator until they reach the ideal creamy consistency. Never microwave, as this could ruin the delicate layers and make the cream runny.

FAQs

Can I make Coffee Tiramisu Cups without coffee liqueur?

Absolutely! Coffee liqueur is optional and you can leave it out if you want an alcohol-free version. Just use strong brewed coffee or espresso for a delicious and authentic flavor.

What’s the best way to avoid soggy ladyfingers?

The secret is to dip the ladyfingers very briefly in the coffee mixture. Just a quick dip (about one second per piece) ensures they absorb flavor without becoming mushy and disintegrating in your Coffee Tiramisu Cups.

Can I substitute mascarpone with another cheese?

Mascarpone is traditional, but if you need a substitute, try blending softened cream cheese with a splash of heavy cream. The flavor will be slightly tangier, but still delightfully creamy.

How far ahead can I make these cups?

You can assemble Coffee Tiramisu Cups up to two days in advance. In fact, they get even better after some time in the fridge, allowing the flavors to mingle and the texture to set just right.

Can I use decaf coffee for this recipe?

Definitely! Decaf works just as well if you want to avoid caffeine, and the finished cups still taste absolutely wonderful. It’s perfect for serving late at night or to guests with caffeine sensitivity.

Final Thoughts

It’s impossible not to fall head over heels for Coffee Tiramisu Cups — each bite is a spoonful of pure comfort and elegance. Give this recipe a try and treat yourself (and your favorite people) to a little Italian-inspired magic, one creamy, coffee-kissed cup at a time!

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