Introduction

These Easy Tiramisu Cups are a delightful no-bake dessert perfect for parties or casual gatherings. Creamy mascarpone, rich coffee-soaked ladyfingers, and a dusting of cocoa come together in individual servings that are as elegant as they are simple to make.

Three small glass cups of layered dessert sit on a white marbled surface, each with a white flower softly blurred in the background. Each clear glass shows four layers: a bottom layer of light brown cake crumbs, topped by a creamy white layer, followed by a thicker medium brown coffee-flavored cream layer, and finished with a swirl of darker brown cream dusted with cocoa powder and topped with one dark roasted coffee bean. A few loose coffee beans and a light dusting of cocoa powder decorate the white rectangular tray holding the cups. The lighting is soft and bright, making the colors and textures clear and inviting. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

250 g Mascarpone cheese
1 cup Heavy cream
¼ cup Sugar
1 tsp Vanilla extract
1 cup Espresso or strong coffee, cooled
Ladyfinger cookies, quantity as needed for layering
Cocoa powder, for dusting

Instructions

Step 1: In a mixing bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract together until the mixture becomes thick and smooth, forming stiff peaks. Stop beating once the cream holds its shape to avoid over-whipping.
Step 2: Briefly dip the ladyfinger cookies into the cooled espresso or coffee. Avoid soaking them to prevent soggy layers; a quick dip is enough.
Step 3: Begin layering by placing dipped ladyfingers at the bottom of small cups or glasses. Spoon a layer of the mascarpone cream over the cookies. Repeat layering once to create two layers each of cookies and cream. Smooth the top gently with a spoon or spatula.
Step 4: Refrigerate the assembled tiramisu cups for 2 to 4 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the cream to set.
Step 5: Just before serving, dust the tops with cocoa powder. Serve cold for the best flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

Use brewed coffee or espresso at room temperature to avoid melting the cream.
For an adult twist, add a splash of coffee liqueur or Marsala wine to the espresso before dipping.
Try garnishing with chocolate shavings or fresh berries for added color and flavor.
If mascarpone isn’t available, blend cream cheese with a little heavy cream as a substitute, though the texture will be slightly different.

Storage

Store the tiramisu cups covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. They are best enjoyed within this time for optimal freshness and texture. Reheat is not recommended; serve chilled straight from the fridge.

How to Serve

The image shows three small clear glass cups filled with layered dessert. Each cup has five layers starting from the bottom with a light cream layer, followed by a light brown crumbly layer, then a white creamy layer, a darker brown smooth layer, and topped with a swirl of creamy light brown mousse dusted with cocoa powder and a single coffee bean. The cups are arranged on a white rectangular plate with some cocoa powder sprinkled around and a few coffee beans placed beside the cups. The background is a white marbled texture with white flowers softly blurred in the distance. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these tiramisu cups in advance?

Yes, these cups can be assembled and refrigerated for up to 2 days ahead, making them perfect for preparing before a party or event.

What can I use instead of ladyfingers?

If ladyfingers aren’t available, you can substitute with sponge cake or pound cake slices, but make sure to dip them briefly in coffee to keep the layers moist.