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These chocolate tiramisu cupcakes are a perfect treat for anyone craving a rich, coffee-kissed dessert with minimal fuss. They combine a moist chocolate base with a luscious mascarpone filling infused with espresso for a little café flair right in your own kitchen.
I whipped these up one afternoon when I needed a pick-me-up dessert and they quickly became a family favorite for weekend treats.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: for a tender crumb choose a fresh bag to avoid any stale flour flavor
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: provides that deep chocolate taste natural cocoa works best for rich color and flavor
- Baking powder: allows the cupcakes to rise nicely giving them a lovely texture
- Granulated sugar: sweetens perfectly without overpowering use regular white sugar for best results
- Eggs: bring structure and richness so opt for large eggs fresh from the fridge
- Whole milk: adds moisture and tenderness avoid skim milk as it makes the batter dry
- Vegetable oil: keeps the cupcakes moist longer compared to butter plus it blends in seamlessly
- Mascarpone cheese: lends the creamy tangy signature of tiramisu buy full fat for best texture and flavor
- Espresso or strong coffee: makes this an adult take on cupcakes adding a bold mocha essence
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep:
- Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line a muffin tin with paper liners this helps with even baking and easy cleanup
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a mixing bowl whisk together the flour cocoa powder baking powder and sugar to blend evenly these dry ingredients build the cupcake's structure and chocolate base
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl beat the eggs then add milk and vegetable oil whisk together until smooth this mixture keeps the cupcakes soft and tender
- Bring Batter Together:
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry bowl gently fold them together taking care not to overmix to keep the cupcakes from turning tough a few lumps are fine here
- Fill and Bake:
- Spoon the batter into the liners filling each about two thirds full this ensures enough room for rise bake for 18 to 20 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean to guarantee they are cooked through
- Cool Completely:
- Once baked remove the cupcakes from the oven and cool them fully to set their crumb and make filling easier the cupcakes must be cool or the mascarpone filling will melt
- Prepare and Fill:
- Whip mascarpone cheese with espresso until fluffy then cut or poke a small hole in each cupcake and pipe or spoon the filling inside this adds that creamy tiramisu vibe
- Dust and Serve:
- Lightly dust the tops with cocoa powder to finish them off this is the classic touch that ties the dessert together
This recipe reminds me of a cozy evening where my friends and I gathered to share stories and laughs over these very cupcakes
Storage tips
These cupcakes keep well covered in the refrigerator for up to four days because of the mascarpone filling always keep them chilled to maintain freshness and avoid spoilage they can also be brought to room temperature before serving to bring out the flavors
Ingredient swaps
If you do not have mascarpone you can substitute cream cheese mixed with a little heavy cream to mimic the texture and flavor I would not recommend skipping the espresso as it really transforms the filling and delivers the tiramisu character For a non-dairy version try coconut cream and a shot of decaffeinated coffee
Serving ideas
Serve these cupcakes with a dusting of powdered sugar along with an espresso or your favorite latte for a classic coffeehouse vibe They also pair beautifully with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream to add a bright contrast to the rich chocolate and coffee flavors
These cupcakes are a delightful mix of rich chocolate and smooth coffee flavors guaranteed to impress your guests and warm your heart.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → What type of cocoa powder works best?
Using unsweetened cocoa powder with a deep chocolate flavor enhances the richness and balances the sweetness of the filling.
- → Can I substitute espresso with coffee?
Yes, strong brewed coffee can be used but espresso provides a more intense, concentrated flavor that complements the mascarpone.
- → How do I prevent the cupcakes from drying out?
Mix wet and dry ingredients gently to avoid overmixing and bake only until a toothpick comes out clean for moist cupcakes.
- → What’s the best way to fill the cupcakes evenly?
Use a piping bag or a small spoon to fill each cooled cupcake with mascarpone cream for a consistent amount and neat presentation.
- → Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes, cupcakes can be baked and filled a day in advance, stored in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness.