Tiramisu Cupcakes combine the flavors of the classic Italian dessert with the convenience of a portable cupcake. These moist, coffee-flavored cupcakes are filled with a rich mascarpone cream filling, dusted with cocoa powder, and topped with whipped cream, mimicking the delicious layers of traditional tiramisu. Here’s how to make them:
Ingredients:
For the Cupcakes:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee (cooled)
For the Mascarpone Filling:
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (chilled)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder (for dusting)
- Optional: chocolate shavings
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cupcakes:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract.
- Slowly add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Gently fold in the cooled coffee until fully incorporated.
- Spoon the batter into the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool completely on a wire rack.
2. Prepare the Mascarpone Filling:
- In a medium bowl, beat together the mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- In a separate bowl, whip the chilled heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until well combined.
3. Prepare the Topping:
- Whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar in a chilled bowl until stiff peaks form. You can add a touch of vanilla if desired for extra flavor.
4. Assemble the Cupcakes:
- Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, use a small knife or cupcake corer to remove a small portion from the center of each cupcake, creating a well for the mascarpone filling.
- Fill each well with the mascarpone mixture using a spoon or piping bag.
- Top with a dollop of whipped cream and dust lightly with cocoa powder. Optionally, garnish with chocolate shavings.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Let the cupcakes sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.
These tiramisu cupcakes offer all the coffee and mascarpone goodness of the traditional dessert, but in a fun, individual-sized form!