Tiramisu Cupcakes
Cupcake Ingredients
1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
1 tbsp espresso or strong coffee powder (or instant coffee)
1/4 cup (60ml) warm water (to dissolve the coffee)
For the Coffee Soak:
1/2 cup (120ml) brewed coffee or espresso (cooled)
2 tbsp coffee liqueur (optional, like Kahlúa)
2 tbsp sugar
For the Mascarpone Frosting:
8 oz (225g) mascarpone cheese, softened
1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
2 cups (250g) powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp heavy cream or milk (if needed)
1 tbsp cocoa powder (for dusting)
Instructions
1. Make the cupcakes:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
In a separate bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
Dissolve the coffee powder in the warm water, then add to the milk. Gradually add the flour mixture and coffee mixture to the butter-sugar mixture, alternating between the two, starting and ending with the flour mixture.
Mix until just combined.
Divide the batter evenly into the cupcake liners (about 2/3 full).
Bake for 18–20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool completely.
2. Make the coffee soak:
In a small bowl, combine the brewed coffee, coffee liqueur (optional), and sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved. Let cool.
3. Make the mascarpone frosting:
Beat together the softened mascarpone cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and mix until fluffy.
If the frosting is too thick, add heavy cream or milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach a smooth, pipeable consistency.
4. Assemble the cupcakes:
Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, poke a few small holes in each one with a toothpick or skewer.
Drizzle the coffee soak evenly over the cupcakes, allowing it to soak into the cupcakes.
Pipe or spread the mascarpone frosting generously on top of each cupcake.
Dust the tops with cocoa powder for that authentic tiramisu look.