Tiramisu Cupcakes

### **How to Make Tiramisu Cupcakes**

#### **Step 1: Prepare the Cupcakes**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
6. Divide the batter evenly between the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean. Allow the cupcakes to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

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#### **Step 2: Make the Coffee Syrup**
1. While the cupcakes are cooling, combine the brewed espresso (or strong coffee), coffee liqueur (if using), and sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat.
2. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the syrup is slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.

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#### **Step 3: Make the Mascarpone Frosting**
1. In a large bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the heavy cream, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and coffee or espresso (if using). Beat on high until stiff peaks form, about 3-5 minutes.
3. If the frosting is too thick, add a little more heavy cream to reach your desired consistency.

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#### **Step 4: Assemble the Cupcakes**
1. Once the cupcakes have cooled completely, use a skewer or small knife to poke a few holes in the center of each cupcake.
2. Drizzle the coffee syrup over the cupcakes, allowing it to soak in. You can use a spoon or a pastry brush for this step.
3. Pipe or spread the mascarpone frosting onto each cupcake, creating a generous swirl or dollop on top.
4. Dust each cupcake with unsweetened cocoa powder using a fine mesh strainer. Garnish with chocolate shavings or cocoa nibs if desired.

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### **Why You’ll Love Tiramisu Cupcakes**

– **Portable Version of Tiramisu:** All the flavors you love in tiramisu, now in an easy-to-serve cupcake form.
– **Rich and Decadent:** The combination of coffee-soaked cake and creamy mascarpone frosting is the ultimate indulgence.
– **Great for Any Occasion:** These cupcakes are perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any gathering where you want to serve something unique and delicious.
– **No-Bake Elements:** The coffee syrup and mascarpone frosting are simple to prepare and don’t require any baking, making the process easier than a full tiramisu.

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### **Tips for Perfect Tiramisu Cupcakes**

1. **Let the Cupcakes Cool Completely:** Make sure the cupcakes are fully cooled before soaking them with the coffee syrup to prevent them from becoming soggy.
2. **Use Fresh Espresso or Coffee:** Freshly brewed espresso or strong coffee adds the best flavor to both the cupcakes and the syrup.
3. **Frosting Consistency:** If you prefer a smoother frosting, you can use a stand mixer or hand mixer to ensure that the mascarpone is perfectly blended with the whipped cream.
4. **Customize the Garnish:** For a more traditional tiramisu look, you can add a layer of chocolate shavings or even drizzle some melted chocolate on top of the frosting.
5. **Make-Ahead Option:** You can make the cupcakes and coffee syrup a day ahead and store them in an airtight container. Frost them on the day you plan to serve them for the best texture.

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### **Serving Suggestions**

– Serve these cupcakes with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or espresso for the perfect pairing.
– Add a dollop of whipped cream or a dusting of cinnamon for extra flavor.
– For a festive touch, serve them as part of a dessert platter at a dinner party or holiday gathering.

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### **Conclusion**

**Tiramisu Cupcakes** bring all the rich, indulgent flavors of traditional tiramisu into a convenient and fun-to-eat form. With coffee-soaked cake, creamy mascarpone frosting, and a dusting of cocoa powder, these cupcakes are the perfect balance of sweet, creamy, and slightly bitter—just like the beloved Italian dessert. Whether you’re treating yourself or entertaining guests, these cupcakes are sure to be a hit.

Try them today and enjoy a little taste of Italy in every bite!