Vanilla Tiramisu Cupcakes Recipe

If you’re craving the flavors of classic tiramisu but want the fun and ease of handheld treats, these Vanilla Tiramisu Cupcakes are calling your name. Imagine a fluffy vanilla cupcake, delicately soaked with espresso, filled with an airy mascarpone cream center, and crowned with the dreamiest whipped mascarpone frosting, all finished with a dramatic dusting of cocoa. Every bite is a blend of lush, creamy filling, tender cake, and a kiss of coffee that’s guaranteed to delight both tiramisu and cupcake lovers alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of everyday ingredients, you’ll transform simple pantry staples into an impressive dessert. Each one has an important role to play, whether it’s building the cupcake’s fluffy structure, adding subtle vanilla warmth, or bringing the essential tiramisu coffee zing. Here’s how each ingredient makes these Vanilla Tiramisu Cupcakes sing:

• All-purpose flour: Provides the perfect tender crumb, keeping your cupcakes soft and light.
• Baking powder: Gives rise to fluffy, cloudlike cupcakes that hold up to the rich filling.
• Salt: Brightens and balances the sweet flavors throughout the cupcakes and filling.
• Unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture, creating a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens everything just right without overwhelming the delicate flavors.
• Large eggs: Help bind the batter and make the cupcakes wonderfully rich.
• Vanilla extract: Infuses a fragrant, classic base that complements the mascarpone and espresso.
• Whole milk: Keeps the cupcakes moist and tender with a luscious crumb.
• Strong brewed espresso or coffee: Delivers that signature tiramisu flavor by soaking into the cake.
• Coffee liqueur (optional): Gives a grown-up twist and deepens the coffee notes beautifully.
• Powdered sugar: Dissolves easily and sweetens both the filling and the frosting for a silky finish.
• Mascarpone cheese: The essence of tiramisu—ultra creamy, mild, and decadent in both the filling and frosting.
• Heavy cream: Whips into a plush, airy texture, essential for that classic tiramisu creaminess.
• Cocoa powder: A finishing touch for drama and a bittersweet contrast—don’t skip it!
• Chocolate-covered espresso beans (optional): Channel the café experience by adding crunch and a bold coffee pop.

How to Make Vanilla Tiramisu Cupcakes

Step 1: Bake the Cupcakes

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a muffin pan with your favorite cupcake liners. In a medium bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, and salt together to distribute the leavening evenly. In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture turns pale and fluffy—this breathes air into the batter for lift. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Gently mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with the whole milk, until just combined. Divide the batter among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool completely so the filling and soak can shine.

Step 2: Make the Espresso Soak

While the cupcakes are cooling, stir together the robust brewed espresso (or strong coffee), sugar, and coffee liqueur if you want an extra depth of flavor. Let this coffee mixture cool to room temperature—if it’s hot, it may dissolve your cupcakes instead of soaking gently. This little step is what gives these Vanilla Tiramisu Cupcakes their unmistakable tiramisu backbone.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

For the creamy heart of these cupcakes, beat together mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, heavy cream, and a dash more vanilla extract. You’re looking for a smooth, slightly thick mixture—taste it and try not to eat it all with a spoon! Using a paring knife or cupcake corer, remove a small plug from the center of each cupcake. Spoon or pipe in the mascarpone filling (go generous—it’s the best part!), then gently replace a bit of cake on top if you’d like to seal it in.

Step 4: Brush & Frost

Brush the tops of each cupcake with the cooled espresso soak—it should seep in but not saturate. For the frosting, whip heavy cream to soft peaks, then fold in the mascarpone, powdered sugar, and vanilla until thick and fluffy. Using a piping bag or a spatula, swirl the frosting lavishly atop each cupcake. Finish with a dramatic dusting of cocoa powder, and for café vibes, drop a chocolate-covered espresso bean right on top.

How to Serve Vanilla Tiramisu Cupcakes

Garnishes

A simple dusting of high-quality cocoa powder is the traditional touch, but these Vanilla Tiramisu Cupcakes also love a little flair. Try extra chocolate shavings, chocolate-covered espresso beans, or even a decorative swirl of chocolate sauce for a decadent finish. This not only gives them that unmistakable tiramisu look but also adds intrigue with every bite.

Side Dishes

Pairing these cupcakes is all about complementary flavors. Serve alongside a fresh fruit salad bursting with strawberries or raspberries for a pop of tartness. For a truly Italian-inspired treat, accompany your cupcakes with a cup of strong coffee, a hot latte, or even a scoop of vanilla gelato for an indulgent dessert plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, display the Vanilla Tiramisu Cupcakes on a tiered dessert stand. Dress them up with mini flag toppers or edible gold leaf for an elegant party spread. If you’re packing them for a picnic, use individual cupcake cloches. You can also assemble them in mason jars for adorable, portable tiramisu parfaits that capture all the same layers and drama.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any cupcakes left, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Thanks to the mascarpone and cream, these treats stay moist and luscious for up to three days. Let them rest at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving so the frosting softens and the flavors shine.

Freezing

The unfrosted cupcakes freeze beautifully—just wrap them tightly and freeze for up to two months. For best results, freeze the frosting separately in a sealed container. Thaw both overnight in the refrigerator, then proceed with filling and frosting when you’re ready to serve.

Reheating

The Vanilla Tiramisu Cupcakes are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. There’s no need to reheat, but if they’re straight from the fridge, let them sit out for a few minutes to lose their chill. This keeps the mascarpone frosting smooth and creamy, just like a classic tiramisu.

FAQs

Can I make Vanilla Tiramisu Cupcakes without coffee liqueur?

Absolutely! The coffee liqueur is entirely optional and only adds an extra layer of depth. If you prefer to keep these cupcakes alcohol-free, simply skip the liqueur or swap it for extra brewed espresso in the soak.

How do I prevent the cupcakes from getting soggy with the espresso soak?

Brush the espresso soak lightly onto the tops of the cooled cupcakes rather than pouring it on. The cake will absorb just enough without getting soggy, giving you that lovely tiramisu flavor with a tender crumb.

Can I substitute cream cheese for mascarpone?

Mascarpone is classic for tiramisu, but you can use full-fat cream cheese in a pinch. Just know the filling and frosting will have a tangier flavor and a slightly heavier texture. Try to use mascarpone for the most authentic, silky-rich result.

How far in advance can I make these cupcakes?

You can bake the cupcakes and whip up the filling and frosting a day ahead. Store the components separately, and assemble on the day you serve for best texture. Fully assembled, they keep beautifully for up to three days in the fridge.

Do I need any special tools to fill the cupcakes?

No special equipment needed! A small paring knife works great to cut out the center, and you can use a spoon or a piping bag to add the filling. If you have a cupcake corer, it will make the task even quicker and neater.

Final Thoughts

There’s something unforgettable about sharing these Vanilla Tiramisu Cupcakes with friends and family. Every element, from the espresso-soaked cake to the luscious whipped frosting, promises a little moment of joy. Give them a try—your dessert table will never be the same!

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