Ingredients
Mascarpone Mixture
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese, chilled (8 ounces)
- ¼ cup powdered sugar (icing sugar, confectioner’s sugar)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Whipped Cream
- 1 cup cold heavy whipping cream (30-35%)
Assembly
- 8-10 ladyfinger biscuits (Savoiardi biscuits)
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee or espresso, cooled (can use store-bought or instant coffee; decaf is fine)
- Optional: 1 tablespoon or more Kahlua (coffee liqueur), Marsala wine, dark rum, or Amaretto
Garnish
- 1-2 teaspoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- Optional: crushed toasted nuts, chocolate curls, grated chocolate, or a sprinkle of cinnamon
Instructions
- Make Mascarpone Mixture: In a medium-large bowl, stir together mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and combined. Taste and adjust sweetness by adding more powdered sugar if desired.
- Whip Cream: In a separate bowl, use an electric mixer to whip the cold heavy cream until soft peaks form. The peaks should hold their shape when lifted but not be too stiff. Be careful not to overwhip to avoid a dense texture.
- Fold: Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until just combined, taking care not to overmix to keep the mixture light and airy.
- Assemble Cups: Break ladyfingers into pieces to fit your serving cups. Quickly dip each piece (1-2 seconds) into the cooled coffee mixture—if using, add Kahlua or other liqueur to the coffee before dipping—to moisten without becoming soggy. Layer dipped ladyfingers at the bottom of each cup, then spoon a layer of the mascarpone-cream mixture on top. Repeat with another layer of soaked ladyfingers and then a final layer of cream mixture.
- Cover and Chill: Cover each cup with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, remove the plastic wrap. Using a mini mesh sieve, tap 1-2 teaspoons of unsweetened cocoa powder over the top of each cup for a classic tiramisu finish. Optionally, add crushed toasted nuts, chocolate curls, grated chocolate, or a sprinkle of cinnamon as desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Note 1: Ensure mascarpone cheese is well chilled for easier blending and better texture.
- Note 2: Ladyfinger biscuits, known as Savoiardi, can vary in size, so break them to fit your serving cups.
- Note 3: For variations, try different garnishes like nuts or chocolate for added texture and flavor.
- Storing: Keep tiramisu cups covered in the fridge and consume within 2-3 days for best freshness.
- Optional Alcohol: Adding coffee liqueur or other spirits is optional; omit for a non-alcoholic version suitable for all ages.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
