How to Make the Perfect No Bake Tiramisu Cups
Italian · Medium · 260 min · 6 servings
These individual tiramisu cups deliver all the classic flavors of the Italian favorite with espresso-soaked ladyfingers and a silky mascarpone cream in a no bake format. They are elegant make-ahead desserts that always get rave reviews.
Why this recipe works
This No Bake Tiramisu Cups recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 260 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 420 calories with 7g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 16 ounces mascarpone cheese softened
- 0.5 cup powdered sugar
- 1.5 cups heavy whipping cream cold
- 1 cup strong brewed espresso cooled
- 18 cookies ladyfinger cookies savoiardi
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Prepare the mascarpone cream
Beat mascarpone and powdered sugar together until smooth. In a separate bowl whip cold heavy cream to stiff peaks then gently fold it into the mascarpone mixture in three additions until light and airy.
Step 2: Dip the ladyfingers
Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the cooled espresso for no longer than 1 second per side. The cookies should be moist but not soggy as they will continue to absorb moisture while chilling.
Step 3: Assemble the cups
Break dipped ladyfingers to fit and layer them into the base of each serving cup. Add a generous layer of mascarpone cream then repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and finish with mascarpone cream.
Step 4: Dust and chill
Dust the tops of each cup generously with unsweetened cocoa powder through a fine sieve. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving so the flavors meld and the cream firms up beautifully.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- mascarpone cheese → an equal amount of full-fat cream cheese blended with 2 tablespoons of heavy cream as a close substitute
- espresso → strong brewed coffee or coffee mixed with a small amount of instant espresso powder
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Soaking the ladyfingers too long in the espresso which makes them fall apart and creates a soggy mushy base
- Not chilling the tiramisu long enough which means the cream has not firmed up and the flavors have not developed
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 420 calories, 7g protein, 36g carbs, 28g fat, 1g fiber.
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