Easy Tiramisu Cups Recipe

Indulge in the deliciousness of homemade Easy Tiramisu Cups with this simple recipe. Perfect for coffee lovers craving a sweet treat!

By Matt Simmons

If you’re a fan of coffee-flavored sweets but prefer quick assembly over complex baking, this easy tiramisu cups recipe is right up your alley. These single-serving treats capture all the classic flavors of tiramisu—rich espresso, velvety mascarpone, and a subtle hint of cocoa—in a fuss-free format. You can whip them up whenever you feel like a sweet indulgence and still impress friends and family with a dessert that looks café-worthy.

Ingredients

1 cup strong espresso or coffee (cooled)
2 tablespoons sugar (divided)
8 ounces mascarpone cheese (softened)
1 cup heavy cream (chilled)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
12 ladyfingers (approximately)
Unsweetened cocoa powder or shaved chocolate (for garnish)

Directions

Mix the coffee base. In a shallow bowl, stir 1 tablespoon of sugar into the cooled espresso or coffee. Set aside.
Prepare the cream. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk the heavy cream, the remaining tablespoon of sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Gently fold in the softened mascarpone cheese to create a smooth, airy mixture.
Dip the ladyfingers. Break ladyfingers into pieces that fit into your serving cups. Dip each piece into the sweetened coffee for a few seconds. Be careful not to soak them too long, or they’ll become too mushy.
Layer your cups. Place a layer of coffee-dipped ladyfingers at the bottom of each cup. Spoon a layer of the mascarpone cream on top. Continue layering until you reach the top, finishing with a layer of cream.
Garnish. Dust unsweetened cocoa powder or sprinkle shaved chocolate over the final layer of cream.
Chill and serve. Refrigerate your cups for at least two hours to let the flavors blend. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Tips & variations

Use decaf coffee. If you prefer less caffeine, feel free to use decaf espresso or coffee for the same rich flavor.
Swap in liqueur. Add a splash of coffee liqueur or marsala wine to your coffee mixture for a boozy twist. Adjust the sugar if needed.
Try different cookies. While ladyfingers are traditional, shortbread biscuits can also work in a pinch. Just be mindful that some cookies absorb liquid faster than others.
Experiment with toppings. Switch up your garnish by using grated dark chocolate, chocolate curls, or even a dusting of cinnamon for extra warmth.

Nutrition facts

Below is a rough estimate per serving (based on six servings):

Calories: ~300
Protein: ~4 g
Carbohydrates: ~25 g
Fat: ~20 g

Your final values may differ depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Final thoughts

Tiramisu cups let you satisfy a coffee and dessert craving without fussing over a large baking dish. Each cup comes together quickly, yet still delivers the comforting, creamy goodness that’s made this Italian classic so beloved. Feel free to make these ahead of time and store them in the fridge. By the time you’re ready to dig in, the flavors will have melded into a luscious treat you won’t want to share—though friends and family may insist otherwise.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Can I make tiramisu cups without mascarpone?
Yes. You can substitute cream cheese (softened) or a mix of cream cheese and ricotta, but the flavor and texture will differ slightly from the classic version.

How long can I keep them in the fridge?
You can store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep each cup covered or wrapped to maintain freshness and prevent any fridge odors from seeping in.

Is it safe to use raw eggs like in traditional tiramisu?
This particular recipe does not use raw eggs, so you can enjoy it without worrying about egg safety. The creamy texture comes from whipped heavy cream and mascarpone cheese.

Do I have to let them chill for two hours?
Chilling for at least two hours helps the flavors mingle and creates a firmer texture in the cups. If you’re short on time, 30–60 minutes can work, but the result may not be as rich and set.