Tiramisu Cupcakes

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cupcakes:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
• In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes, using an electric mixer. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, and then stir in the vanilla extract.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
• Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full.
• Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean. Allow the cupcakes to cool in the tin for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Prepare the Soaking Liquid:

• In a small bowl, mix together the cooled brewed coffee and coffee liqueur (if using). Stir until combined.

3. Soak the Cupcakes:

• Once the cupcakes have cooled completely, use a spoon or small brush to gently soak each cupcake with the coffee mixture. Be sure not to oversaturate them—just a few spoonfuls of the coffee mixture per cupcake will give them the perfect tiramisu flavor.

4. Prepare the Mascarpone Frosting:

• In a mixing bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, and powdered sugar. Beat with an electric mixer until the mixture is smooth and thickened, about 3-5 minutes.
• Stir in the vanilla extract and coffee liqueur (if using). Continue to beat until soft peaks form and the frosting holds its shape.

5. Assemble the Cupcakes:

• Once your cupcakes are soaked and the frosting is ready, it’s time to assemble. Using a piping bag or a spatula, pipe or spread the mascarpone frosting onto each cupcake, creating a generous swirl on top.
• Dust the tops of each cupcake with a light sprinkle of unsweetened cocoa powder for that signature tiramisu look.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

• These cupcakes are best served immediately, but they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors continue to develop and improve as they sit, making them even better the next day!
• For an extra special touch, garnish with chocolate shavings, a cherry, or a coffee bean on top of each cupcake before serving.

Why You’ll Love Tiramisu Cupcakes:

• All the Flavor of Tiramisu in a Cupcake Form: These cupcakes bring the rich flavors of tiramisu into a convenient, bite-sized treat. You’ll enjoy the familiar layers of coffee-soaked cake, smooth mascarpone frosting, and a dusting of cocoa powder, all in a single serving.
• Moist and Flavorful: The coffee-soaked cake is incredibly moist and flavorful, while the mascarpone frosting is light, creamy, and just the right amount of sweet.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These cupcakes are a great dessert for everything from holiday parties to casual get-togethers, birthdays, or just a fun treat for yourself. Their elegant presentation and delicious flavors make them the perfect choice for special occasions.
• Easily Customizable: Feel free to experiment with the soaking liquid or frosting. You can add a bit more coffee liqueur for extra flavor or even top the cupcakes with chocolate curls or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Tips for the Best Tiramisu Cupcakes:

• Don’t Over-soak the Cupcakes: When soaking the cupcakes, be careful not to oversaturate them with coffee. A little bit goes a long way—just a light soaking will infuse the cupcakes with the delicious coffee flavor without making them soggy.
• Make Ahead: You can bake the cupcakes a day ahead and soak them, then refrigerate until ready to frost and serve. This makes them perfect for prepping ahead of a party or gathering.
• Frosting Consistency: If the mascarpone frosting is too soft and difficult to pipe, you can chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before piping to make it firmer.
• Coffee Liqueur Optional: While coffee liqueur adds a lovely depth of flavor, it’s completely optional. You can stick with just brewed coffee if you prefer to avoid alcohol.

Conclusion:

These Tiramisu Cupcakes are the perfect blend of classic Italian dessert flavors and the fun, portable nature of a cupcake. With their coffee-soaked cake, creamy mascarpone frosting, and dusting of cocoa powder, these cupcakes deliver all the indulgence of tiramisu in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply treating yourself, these cupcakes will be a hit every time.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and treat yourself and your guests to these indulgent and elegant Tiramisu Cupcakes!