Description
Delight in these elegant Tiramisu Cups, a classic Italian dessert transformed into individual servings. Layers of espresso-soaked savoiardi cookies alternate with a luscious mascarpone cream infused with espresso and sweet marsala wine, all topped with a dusting of rich cocoa powder. Perfect for entertaining or a special treat, these no-bake cups offer the authentic flavors of tiramisu in a convenient, easy-to-serve presentation.
Ingredients
Scale
Coffee Dip
- ¾ cup (180 mls) brewed espresso coffee, cooled (you may need a little more)
- 2 tablespoons (30 mls) sweet marsala wine
Espresso Mascarpone Cream
- 1 cup (240 mls) heavy cream (whipping cream)
- 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup (60 grams) powdered sugar (icing sugar)
- 1 cup (250 grams) mascarpone cheese
Assembly
- 12 savoiardi cookies (Italian ladyfingers)
- Cocoa powder, for dusting before serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Coffee Dip: Combine the cooled brewed espresso coffee with sweet marsala wine in a shallow dish. This mixture will be used to soak the savoiardi cookies, infusing them with rich coffee flavor.
- Make the Espresso Mascarpone Cream: Using an electric hand mixer or stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, whip the heavy cream together with powdered sugar and instant espresso powder in a medium bowl until very soft peaks form. In a separate small bowl, stir the mascarpone cheese and vanilla extract to combine smoothly. Gently fold the mascarpone mixture into the whipped cream and whisk just until firm peaks form, being careful not to overbeat to maintain a light texture.
- Assemble the Tiramisu Cups: Cut the savoiardi cookies in half and quickly dip each piece into the coffee mixture, ensuring they absorb flavor without becoming soggy. Layer two halves at the bottom of each serving glass, then top with approximately two heaped tablespoons of the mascarpone mixture. Repeat to create a second layer of savoiardi and mascarpone cream in each glass.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the assembled cups with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the cream to set. Before serving, dust the tops generously with sieved cocoa powder for that signature tiramisu finish.
Notes
- Use heavy cream or whipping cream for best results in the mascarpone cream to ensure it whips properly.
- Mascarpone cheese should be fresh and kept cold until use for optimal texture and flavor.
- Savoiardi cookies, also known as Italian ladyfingers, are essential for authentic texture and flavor—do not substitute with other cookies.
- Do not over-soak the savoiardi in coffee to avoid soggy layers; a quick dip is sufficient.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: Tiramisu, Italian dessert, mascarpone, espresso, no-bake dessert, individual servings, coffee dessert
