Name: Chocolate Tiramisu Cupcakes Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 19 min
Total time: 1 h 40 min
Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Ingredients: 120 grams cake flour; 40 grams black cocoa powder; 1/4 tsp fine sea salt; 1/2 tbsp baking powder; 175 grams granulated sugar; 80 mL (1/3 cup) canola oil; 1 large egg; 75 grams sour cream or Greek yogurt; 120 mL hot coffee (Americano); 4 lady fingers, cut into thirds; 120 mL espresso (room temperature); 8 oz (about 225 grams) mascarpone cheese (cold); 120 grams powdered sugar; Tiny pinch of fine sea salt; 2 tsp vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract; 240 mL heavy whipping cream (cold); Cocoa powder (for dusting)

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 14 reviews

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If you have a passion for desserts that combine rich, bold flavors with a touch of elegance, then this Chocolate Tiramisu Cupcakes Recipe is about to become your new favorite indulgence. These cupcakes capture all the lusciousness of classic tiramisu, featuring moist, coffee-soaked chocolate cake layers crowned with a dreamy mascarpone frosting and a dusting of cocoa powder. Each bite is a harmonious dance of chocolate, espresso, and creamy sweetness that’s perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself to a gourmet moment at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up view of a white ceramic bowl with a rough brown rim, filled with dark black liquid mixture with thick patches of gray powder on the surface, creating a marbled look within the bowl. A metal whisk with a black handle is partially submerged in the mixture on the right side, coated with some of the gray powder. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface, giving contrast to the dark contents inside. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this Chocolate Tiramisu Cupcakes Recipe is carefully chosen to create the perfect texture, depth of flavor, and beautiful appearance. From the rich black cocoa powder enhancing the chocolate notes to the espresso that infuses the cupcakes with that signature tiramisu kick, each component plays a vital role in crafting a truly memorable bite.

120 grams cake flour: Gives structure while keeping the cupcake light and tender.
40 grams black cocoa powder: Adds intense chocolate flavor and a deep, dark color.
1/4 tsp fine sea salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies the chocolate taste.
1/2 tbsp baking powder: Helps the cupcakes rise beautifully and become fluffy.
175 grams granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter just right without overpowering.
80 mL (1/3 cup) canola oil: Keeps the cupcakes moist and tender without a heavy texture.
1 large egg: Binds ingredients and contributes to structure.
75 grams sour cream or Greek yogurt: Adds tang and moisture, enriching the crumb.
120 mL hot coffee (Americano recommended): Infuses the batter with a subtle espresso flavor that complements the cocoa.
4 lady fingers, cut into thirds: Used to replicate tiramisu’s classic soaked cookie layers within the cupcake.
120 mL espresso (room temperature): For dipping the lady fingers and soaking the baked cupcakes to boost coffee flavor.
8 oz mascarpone (cold): The star ingredient in the frosting, lending richness and a silky texture.
120 grams powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting with a smooth, fine texture.
Tiny pinch of fine sea salt: Enhances the mascarpone frosting’s flavor complexity.
2 tsp vanilla bean paste (or vanilla extract): Adds a lovely aromatic note to the frosting.
240 mL heavy whipping cream (cold): Whipped into the mascarpone for a light, fluffy frosting.
Cocoa powder (for dusting): Finishing touch that adds an elegant presentation and a subtle hint of bitterness.

How to Make Chocolate Tiramisu Cupcakes Recipe

Step 1: Preparing the Cupcake Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (convection preferred if your oven tends to have hot spots), and lining your cupcake tin with 12 liners. In one large bowl, whisk together the cake flour, black cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until everything is well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk the granulated sugar, canola oil, egg, and sour cream until smooth and glossy. Then, sift the dry ingredients over the wet mixture and gently whisk about halfway just enough to combine the two. Finally, add the hot coffee and whisk again until the batter is perfectly smooth and silky.

Step 2: Assembling and Baking the Cupcakes

Fill each cupcake liner about 2/3 to 3/4 full — around 50 grams per cupcake works great for even portions. Take the lady finger pieces and quickly dip each chunk into the room temperature espresso, then gently press them into the top of each cupcake batter-filled tin. This is what gives the cupcakes their authentic tiramisu texture and soaked richness. Bake for 16 to 19 minutes until the cupcakes feel springy to the touch and no longer look wet on top. Allow them to rest in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Infusing Coffee Flavor

Once cooled, use a fork to gently poke holes all over the tops of the cupcakes. Then drizzle or brush the remaining espresso over the cupcakes so they absorb that wonderful coffee essence that’s essential to tiramisu. This step makes the cupcakes irresistibly moist and flavorful.

Step 4: Preparing the Mascarpone Frosting

In a chilled bowl, beat the cold mascarpone with powdered sugar and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla bean paste and continue mixing on medium speed. Gradually stream in the cold heavy whipping cream in several batches, scraping the bowl sides between additions. When all the cream is incorporated, increase the mixer speed to high and whip until stiff peaks form—take care not to over-beat to prevent the mixture from curdling. The frosting should be luscious, light, and hold its shape beautifully.

Step 5: Decorating and Finishing Touches

Pipe or spread the mascarpone frosting generously over each cupcake, then finish with a delicate dusting of cocoa powder for that classic tiramisu look and a slight bitterness that balances the sweetness perfectly.

How to Serve Chocolate Tiramisu Cupcakes Recipe

The image shows a slice of layered chocolate dessert on a white scalloped plate placed on a white marbled surface. The dessert has three visible layers: the bottom layer is thick, dark, and crumbly chocolate cake; the middle layer is a thin, moist, golden sponge; and the top layer is a thick, smooth white cream dusted with cocoa powder. Next to the slice, there is a partial view of a whole dessert topped with cocoa powder, and another piece of the chocolate layer is visible on the plate, with some crumbs scattered around. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your cupcakes even further, consider adding a few chocolate shavings, a tiny espresso bean, or a fresh mint leaf on top of the cocoa powder dusting. These additions add texture, a pop of color, and enhance the aroma, inviting everyone to savor every bite.

Side Dishes

These cupcakes pair wonderfully with a simple scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a small serving of fresh berries. The cold creaminess of ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm espresso flavors, while berries add a bright, fresh counterpoint to the rich sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive gathering, serve your Chocolate Tiramisu Cupcakes Recipe on a tiered dessert stand with delicate espresso spoons on the side. You can also place cupcake wrappers with a vintage Italian motif to highlight the tiramisu inspiration or serve them in elegant glass cups layered with extra mascarpone and espresso-soaked lady fingers for a cupcake-trifle mashup that’s sure to wow guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These cupcakes keep exceptionally well when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually develop more deeply after resting, so if you can wait, they taste even better the next day. Just be sure to keep them chilled because of the mascarpone frosting.

Freezing

You can freeze unfrosted cupcakes by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container for up to one month. Thaw completely in the refrigerator before adding the frosting. Avoid freezing after frosting as mascarpone can change texture and separate upon thawing.

Reheating

Reheat unfrosted cupcakes gently by warming them at room temperature or in a low oven for a few minutes to bring back that fresh-baked feel. Do not heat cupcakes with frosting to preserve the creamy texture and prevent melting.

FAQs

Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of black cocoa powder?

Yes, but black cocoa powder has a richer, more intense chocolate flavor and darker color that really enhances the tiramisu vibe. Regular cocoa powder will work but expect a lighter color and slightly milder flavor.

Is there a non-dairy option for the mascarpone frosting?

You can substitute mascarpone with a vegan cream cheese or coconut cream blend, but the texture and taste will differ slightly from the traditional tiramisu experience.

Can I make these cupcakes without coffee or espresso?

The coffee and espresso are essential to achieve the authentic tiramisu flavor profile, but you could try a coffee-flavored syrup or leave it out altogether for a simple chocolate cupcake, though it won’t have the classic tiramisu taste.

How do I prevent the frosting from becoming runny?

Make sure your mascarpone and heavy cream are well chilled before whipping, and don’t overbeat the frosting once stiff peaks appear to maintain its perfect, pipeable texture.

Can I prepare these cupcakes for a party in advance?

Absolutely! Baking and even soaking the cupcakes a day ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Frost them just before serving for the freshest appearance and texture.

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Tiramisu Cupcakes Recipe is an absolute joy to make and even more delightful to eat. It wonderfully captures the essence of classic tiramisu in a fun, portable form that’s sure to impress anyone lucky enough to taste it. I truly encourage you to try this recipe soon and share the magic of these luscious, coffee-infused cupcakes with your loved ones—it’s the kind of dessert that turns any occasion into a celebration.

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