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When I first experimented with no-bake desserts, I discovered a world of indulgence that fits into even the busiest of schedules. It all started with a craving for something light yet decadently creamy, and that’s when I turned to these delightful Tiramisu Cups. The smooth, velvety mascarpone combined with the robust flavor of freshly brewed coffee creates a heavenly experience that dances on your palate. Plus, with their stunning presentation in individual cups, these treats are perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself after a long day.

What I adore about this recipe is its simplicity—there’s no fussing with egg yolks or complicated steps. It’s an eggless version of the classic tiramisu, making it suitable for everyone, and it can be prepared well in advance. Just imagine the delight on your friends’ faces as they dig into these layered cups of bliss! Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a festive gathering, these Tiramisu Cups are bound to become a staple in your dessert repertoire. So, let’s dive in and make this no-bake dream a reality!

Why are Tiramisu Cups the perfect dessert?

Simplicity: These Tiramisu Cups are incredibly easy to assemble, requiring no baking and minimal prep time.
Decadent Delight: Experience layers of rich mascarpone and bold coffee flavors, creating a truly indulgent treat.
Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare these cups in advance—simply chill them until you’re ready to serve, making entertaining a breeze!
Eggless Elegance: This eggless version ensures everyone can enjoy them, accommodating dietary preferences effortlessly.
Showstopper: With their stunning presentation, they’re sure to impress at any gathering, offering a touch of elegance to your dessert table.

Tiramisu Cups Ingredients

For the Coffee Dip
• Coffee – Use strong brewed coffee for a bold flavor; a moka pot or strong instant coffee works wonderfully.
• Marsala Wine – Adds traditional sweetness; sweet marsala enhances flavor, but non-alcoholic sweet wine is a fine substitute.

For the Mascarpone Cream
• Heavy Whipping Cream – Seek cream with around 36% fat for fluffiness; it should be fresh and very cold for best results.
• Mascarpone Cheese – This creamy delight is essential; if unavailable, smooth cream cheese or whipped ricotta can stand in.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the cream mixture and ensures stability; also known as icing sugar.
• Instant Espresso Powder – Elevates that rich coffee flavor in the mascarpone cream; an essential ingredient for these Tiramisu Cups.
• Vanilla Extract – Opt for pure for the best flavor depth; imitation varieties just don’t compare.

For the Assembly
• Savoiardi Cookies – These Italian sponge fingers soak up the coffee beautifully; you can make them at home or buy them pre-made.
• Cocoa Powder – Use unsweetened for a classic dusting on top; it adds that final touch of decadence.

How to Make Tiramisu Cups

Prepare Coffee Dip: In a shallow dish, combine cooled strong brewed coffee and marsala wine. Stir gently and set aside, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Make Mascarpone Cream: In a mixing bowl, whip very cold heavy cream with powdered sugar and instant espresso powder until soft peaks form. In another bowl, mix mascarpone cheese and vanilla extract. Gently fold the mascarpone into the whipped cream until firm peaks form, being careful not to overmix.
Construct Cups: Cut savoiardi cookies in half and dip them into the coffee mixture for a few seconds. Layer two soaked halves at the bottom of dessert glasses, followed by a spoonful of mascarpone cream. Repeat the process until the cups are filled to the top.
Chill: Cover each cup with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to blend and the textures to set.
Serve: Just before serving, dust the tops of your Tiramisu Cups with cocoa powder for that classic finish that adds a touch of elegance.

Optional: Garnish with chocolate shavings or fresh berries for a pop of color and flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for Tiramisu Cups

Fridge: Store your Tiramisu Cups in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure they are covered tightly to maintain freshness and prevent any absorption of odors.

Freezer: Tiramisu Cups can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap individual cups tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container for best results.

Thawing: To enjoy frozen Tiramisu Cups, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving, allowing them to regain their creamy texture.

Serving: After chilling, dust the tops with cocoa powder right before serving to ensure a beautiful presentation.

What to Serve with Tiramisu Cups?

Elevate your dessert game with delightful pairings that perfectly complement the rich layers of creamy mascarpone and coffee.

Espresso: A shot of strong espresso enhances the coffee notes in the Tiramisu Cups, bringing out their rich flavors without overwhelming sweetness.
Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds an airy contrast, enhancing the creamy texture and providing a luxurious finish to each bite.
Chocolate Shavings: Shavings of rich chocolate on top bring a delightful crunch and a touch of elegance that beautifully complements the creamy dessert.
Fresh Berries: Raspberries or strawberries add a pop of color and fruity freshness, balancing the richness of the Tiramisu Cups for a refreshing bite.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cold scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast in temperatures and textures against the cool Tiramisu Cups.
Fruit Compote: A vibrant berry or citrus compote can brighten the plate, adding tartness that cuts through the creaminess and elevates the entire dessert experience.

Indulging in these combinations transforms a simple dessert into a complete and unforgettable culinary delight!

Expert Tips for Tiramisu Cups

Cold Ingredients: Use cold heavy whipping cream and mascarpone cheese for the best whipping results, ensuring a light, fluffy texture in your Tiramisu Cups.
Perfect Soak: Dip savoiardi cookies in the coffee mixture just long enough to moisten them without turning them mushy; they should maintain their structure.
Gentle Folding: When combining the mascarpone and whipped cream, fold gently to keep the mixture airy and prevent overmixing, which could lead to curdling.
Advance Preparation: For the best flavor, it’s ideal to prepare these Tiramisu Cups 1-2 days ahead of serving; it lets the flavors infuse beautifully.
Dusting Elegance: Just before serving, dust your Tiramisu Cups with unsweetened cocoa powder to enhance the presentation and add a classic finish.

Make Ahead Options

These Tiramisu Cups are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time for entertaining or busy weeknights! You can prepare the mascarpone cream and coffee dip up to 24 hours in advance—just store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. The savoiardi cookies can be cut and ready to soak, so they’re just a quick dip away. When you’re ready to assemble, layer the dipped cookies with the mascarpone cream in your dessert glasses. Chill the completed cups for at least 2 hours before serving to let those flavors meld wonderfully. Just dust with cocoa powder right before serving for a delightful presentation!

Tiramisu Cups Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine with these delightful twists on classic Tiramisu Cups!

Coffee Liqueur: Swap marsala wine for coffee liqueur for a richer flavor experience that enhances the coffee essence.
Non-Alcoholic Substitute: For a family-friendly version, combine milk with vanilla extract instead of marsala, maintaining the dessert’s delightful creaminess.
Flavored Coffee Powders: Discover new tastes by experimenting with flavored instant coffee powders, such as mocha or hazelnut, adding a unique spin.
Nutty Bliss: Add a sprinkle of finely chopped nuts, like hazelnuts or almonds, between layers for an inviting crunch and additional flavor.
Dark Chocolate: Incorporate dark chocolate shavings into the mascarpone layers for a decadent chocolatey twist that complements the coffee beautifully.
Fruit Infusion: Layer fresh berries, like raspberries or strawberries, in between the mascarpone and cookie layers for a refreshing, fruity surprise.
Cocoa Variations: Try dusting with cinnamon or matcha powder instead of cocoa for an unexpected, aromatic finish that adds intrigue.
Plant-Based Alternative: Use coconut cream and dairy-free mascarpone to transform this delight into a vegan version that still tastes incredible!

Tiramisu Cups Recipe FAQs

What type of coffee is best for Tiramisu Cups?
Absolutely! For the most flavorful Tiramisu Cups, I recommend using strong brewed coffee. A moka pot or a high-quality instant coffee can give you that bold taste that truly elevates the dessert. If you love the flavor of espresso, using a concentrated brew will intensify the richness.

How should I store leftover Tiramisu Cups?
Very! To keep your Tiramisu Cups fresh, store them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to cover them tightly with plastic wrap or a lid to prevent them from absorbing any odors from the fridge. If they’re packed well, they’ll remain deliciously indulgent!

Can I freeze Tiramisu Cups?
Absolutely! You can freeze your Tiramisu Cups for up to 2 months. To do this, wrap each cup tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container. This prevents freezer burn and keeps them tasting lovely. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.

What if my whipped cream doesn’t reach soft peaks?
Don’t worry! If your heavy cream doesn’t reach soft peaks, it could be due to the cream being too warm or not having enough fat content. To troubleshoot, ensure you’re using very cold cream (36% fat or higher), and try whipping it with a chilled mixing bowl and beaters. If it fails to thicken, consider using a fresh batch of cream to achieve that airy texture.

Are there any dietary concerns with Tiramisu Cups?
Absolutely! This eggless version of Tiramisu Cups makes it suitable for those avoiding eggs. However, keep in mind that it contains dairy, specifically mascarpone cheese and heavy cream, which might pose a concern for lactose intolerant individuals or those with dairy allergies. You can substitute with dairy-free cream options for a suitable alternative.

Can I make Tiramisu Cups in advance?
Very! In fact, making Tiramisu Cups a day or two in advance is highly recommended. It allows the flavors to meld and deepen, resulting in an even more delicious dessert. Just remember to store them in the refrigerator, and dust with cocoa powder right before serving for that perfect finishing touch.