Creamy Dreamy Tiramisu Cups

These creamy dreamy individual tiramisu cups are the perfect dessert for when you want something sophisticated yet easy to make at home. They come together quickly using simple ingredients and create a rich treat that feels fancy enough for guests but cozy enough for a weeknight indulgence.

I first made these after craving tiramisu but lacking the time for a full pan. The single servings brightened up a quiet evening and quickly became a favorite for sharing at family gatherings.

Ingredients

• Mascarpone cheese: provides that signature creamy richness. Look for a fresh tub with a smooth texture and no lumps
• Ladyfingers: are light and absorb the coffee perfectly. Pick the crispest package you can find to avoid sogginess
• Strong espresso or coffee: gives the dessert its bold coffee flavor. Use freshly brewed for the best aroma or a good quality espresso powder dissolved in hot water
• Granulated sugar: balances the creaminess with a hint of sweetness. You can adjust the amount to taste but avoid substituting with liquid sweeteners to keep the texture right
• Unsweetened cocoa powder: adds the final dust of chocolate bitterness. Choose a high quality, fresh container for the best color and flavor

Instructions

Build The Coffee Base:

Brew one cup of strong espresso or coffee and let it cool completely. This step is key so the ladyfingers soak up flavor without turning mushy

Whip The Creamy Mixture:

In a mixing bowl combine the mascarpone cheese and sugar. Use a whisk or electric hand mixer to whip until smooth and creamy, about 2 to 3 minutes. This ensures a light texture that will balance the soaked ladyfingers

Layer The Cups:

Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the cooled espresso just enough to lightly soak them without making them soggy. Place a layer of soaked ladyfingers into the bottom of your individual cups

Add The Mascarpone:

Spoon a dollop of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers, spreading gently to cover. Repeat layering with more soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone mixture until the cups are filled to the top

Chill To Set:

Cover the cups with plastic wrap or lids and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This step allows flavors to meld and the texture to set perfectly

Finish With Cocoa:

Before serving dust the tops generously with unsweetened cocoa powder. For an extra touch add chocolate shavings or a light sprinkle of finely grated dark chocolate

Mascarpone is my favorite ingredient here because it gives the dessert that unmistakable silky smooth mouthfeel. One family memory that sticks with me is sharing these cups during holiday dinners when everyone gathers around the table to scoop into their own little treat

Storage tips

Store leftover tiramisu cups in the refrigerator covered tightly. They keep well for up to three days but are best eaten within the first two for freshness and texture

Ingredient swaps

If mascarpone is hard to find you can substitute with a blend of cream cheese and heavy cream for similar creaminess. For a caffeine-free option, use strong decaf coffee or even chicory coffee

Serving ideas

These cups pair wonderfully with a small glass of sweet dessert wine or amaretto on the side. Add a few fresh berries or a mint leaf on top for a pretty touch when serving guests

Enjoy these elegant tiramisu cups as a simple yet impressive dessert to share with loved ones anytime.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ How do I prevent ladyfingers from getting soggy?

Dip ladyfingers quickly into cooled espresso, ensuring they absorb some liquid while retaining structure for layering.

→ Can I substitute espresso with regular coffee?

Yes, strong brewed coffee works well but espresso provides a deeper, more concentrated flavor.

→ What’s the best way to achieve a smooth mascarpone mixture?

Whip mascarpone cheese with granulated sugar for 2-3 minutes until fluffy and smooth, without overmixing.

→ How long should the dessert chill before serving?

Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, though overnight resting enhances flavor and texture.

→ Are there topping options besides cocoa powder?

Optional toppings include chocolate shavings or a light dusting of cinnamon for extra aroma.