Tiramisu Cupcakes – Espresso-Infused, Creamy Frosting 

Tiramisu’s signature elements—espresso-soaked ladyfingers, velvety mascarpone cream, and a dusting of cocoa—are lovingly reimagined in a portable, playful cupcake format. These Tiramisu Cupcakes marry a light, airy base (often enriched with coffee flavor) with luscious mascarpone frosting and optional espresso syrup drizzle. Finished with a classic cocoa dusting, they deliver all the indulgence of tiramisu in a handheld treat that's perfect for parties, coffee breaks, or everyday luxury. 

Ingredients (for ~12 cupcakes) 

• Cupcakes:
  
  

  • 1¼ cups all-purpose flour
    
    

  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
    
    

  • ½ cup (1 stick) softened butter
    
    

  • 2 large eggs
    
    

  • 1 tsp baking powder
    
    

  • ¼ tsp salt
    
    

  • ½ cup milk (or buttermilk)
    
    

  • ¼ cup cooled espresso or strong coffee
    
    

• Mascarpone Frosting:
  
  

  • ~8 oz mascarpone cheese
    
    

  • ½ cup heavy cream
    
    

  • ½ cup powdered sugar
    
    

• Optional:
  
  

  • Coffee syrup (½ cup espresso + 2–3 tbsp sugar) for soaking
    
    

  • Cocoa powder (1–2 tbsp) for dusting
    
    

Directions 

1. Prepare the Batter:
   
   

   • Cream together butter and sugar until fluffy (2–3 min).
     
     

   • Beat in eggs one at a time.
     
     

   • Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt separately.
     
     

   • Combine milk and espresso. Alternate adding dry mix and milk-espresso blend to the batter until just combined.
     
     

2. Bake:
   
   

   • Line a 12-cup muffin tin.
     
     

   • Fill each liner about ⅔ full.
     
     

   • Bake at 350 °F (175 °C) for 15–20 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool slightly, then transfer to a rack.
     
     

3. Optional Espresso Soak:
   
   

   • Stir sugar into warm espresso to dissolve. While cupcakes are warm, lightly brush each with the syrup for extra moisture and flavor.
     
     

4. Make the Frosting:
   
   

   • Whip mascarpone until soft. Add heavy cream in increments, then mix in powdered sugar. Beat until the frosting holds soft peaks.
     
     

5. Assemble & Garnish:
   
   

   • Pipe or spread frosting onto cooled cupcakes. Dust with cocoa powder. Optionally, add shaved chocolate or coffee bean garnish. Serve immediately or store as directed.
     
     

Nutrients (Estimated per cupcake; makes 12)

• Calories: ~420 kcal
  
  

• Carbohydrates: ~45 g
  
  

• Protein: ~5 g
  
  

• Fat: ~22 g
  
  

• Saturated Fat: ~13 g
  
  

• Cholesterol: ~55 mg
  
  

• Sodium: ~150 mg
  
  

• Fiber: ~1 g
  
  

• Sugar: ~28 g