Description
Delight in these luscious Tiramisu Cupcakes that combine the rich flavors of coffee-soaked cake with a creamy mascarpone frosting. Inspired by the classic Italian dessert, these cupcakes are perfect for any occasion where a sophisticated yet indulgent treat is desired.
Ingredients
Scale
Cupcake Batter
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk
Moistening Syrup
- 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
- 1/4 cup coffee liqueur (optional)
Mascarpone Frosting
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Garnish
- Cocoa powder, for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners to prevent sticking and facilitate easy removal of the cupcakes.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to combine and aerate the mixture, ensuring even distribution of the leavening agent.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and pale in color, which creates a tender crumb in the finished cupcakes.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the butter and sugar mixture, beating well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract for aroma and flavor depth.
- Combine Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture alternately with the whole milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the batter.
- Fill and Bake: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool Cupcakes: Remove the cupcakes from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan before removing them to ensure they hold their shape and prevent sogginess when moistened.
- Prepare Coffee Syrup: In a small bowl, mix together the strong brewed coffee and coffee liqueur (if using). Using a pastry brush or spoon, gently brush or spoon this mixture onto the cooled cupcakes to infuse them with authentic tiramisu flavor.
- Make Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until the mixture becomes fluffy, smooth, and spreadable, perfect for topping the cupcakes.
- Frost Cupcakes: Using a piping bag or a spatula, spread or pipe the mascarpone frosting evenly over the moistened cupcakes, creating a generous layer of creamy goodness.
- Dust and Serve: Lightly dust the frosted cupcakes with cocoa powder to mimic the classic tiramisu finish and serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the coffee liqueur and replace it with additional brewed coffee.
- Store the cupcakes in the refrigerator to keep the mascarpone frosting fresh and serve them chilled to fully enjoy the tiramisu-inspired flavors.
- If desired, you can pipe the frosting using a star tip for an elegant presentation.
- The cupcakes can be made a day ahead; just keep them covered and refrigerated.
