Tiramisu Cookie Cups Recipe

If you’ve ever wished you could enjoy the rich, creamy delight of tiramisu in a fun, bite-sized treat, these Tiramisu Cookie Cups are going to become your new obsession. They brilliantly capture all the classic flavors of tiramisu with a chocolate cookie base, luscious coffee-chocolate layer, and velvety mascarpone cream, all nestled into adorable individual portions. Whether you’re serving them at a dinner party or craving a personal indulgence, Tiramisu Cookie Cups are guaranteed to brighten your day with every forkful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward but each plays a key role in delivering the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and that unmistakable tiramisu charm. From the crunchy chocolate cookie base to the smooth mascarpone cream and rich coffee-infused chocolate layer, every element is essential to create this dessert masterpiece.

• Chocolate cookies (1 ½ cups, crushed): Provides a crunchy, chocolatey base that complements the creamy layers beautifully.
• Unsalted butter (6 tablespoons total): Adds richness and helps bind the cookie base and coffee-chocolate layers into smooth perfection.
• Strong brewed espresso (⅓ cup, cooled): Delivers authentic coffee flavor—make sure it’s strong to stand out!
• Coffee liqueur (1 tablespoon, optional): Enhances the coffee notes with a subtle boozy warmth, but feel free to leave it out if you prefer.
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips (⅓ cup): They melt into a silky chocolate layer that balances the bitterness of espresso.
• Heavy cream (¾ cup total): Whipped and cooked versions create creamy texture in both the coffee-chocolate and mascarpone layers.
• Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): Thickens the coffee-chocolate layer to a luscious pudding consistency.
• Mascarpone cheese (1 cup, room temperature): The star ingredient that delivers that signature tiramisu creaminess.
• Powdered sugar (⅓ cup): Sweetens the mascarpone cream just enough without overpowering the flavors.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Lends warmth and depth to the mascarpone mixture.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder: For dusting the final touch that’s visually stunning and bittersweet on the palate.
• Optional chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips: Adds extra texture and chocolate fun on top.

How to Make Tiramisu Cookie Cups

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Base

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a muffin tin with cupcake liners for easy cleanup and charming presentation. Combine the crushed chocolate cookies with the melted butter until the mixture has the consistency of wet sand. Press this firmly into the bottom of each liner to form a sturdy base that will hold all the creamy layers on top. Bake for just 5 minutes to set, then let them cool completely. This base is what gives your Tiramisu Cookie Cups their delicious chocolate crunch that contrasts with the silky fillings.

Step 2: Make the Coffee-Chocolate Layer

In a small saucepan, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips together with butter, espresso, and coffee liqueur if you’re using it, over low heat. Stir until smooth and heavenly. Separately, whisk the heavy cream and cornstarch until smooth, making sure there are no lumps. Slowly add this cream mixture into the saucepan, stirring continuously over medium heat until it thickens like pudding. Removing from heat, let this luscious coffee-chocolate layer cool to room temperature—it will add that rich, coffee-flavored punch to your cups.

Step 3: Whip the Mascarpone Cream

In a mixing bowl, beat together mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. In another bowl, whip the cold heavy cream to stiff peaks—the secret to that light, airy mascarpone texture. Carefully fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture to keep it fluffy but uniform. This dreamy cream layer is what makes each Tiramisu Cookie Cup feel indulgently special and utterly irresistible.

Step 4: Assemble the Tiramisu Cookie Cups

Now comes the fun part. Begin with a spoonful of either mascarpone cream or coffee-chocolate on top of the cookie base, smoothing it out gently. Add a contrasting layer next, alternating between the two fillings to build those beautiful, defined layers. To keep each layer firm and neat, chill the cups for about 10 minutes between additions. Repeat until your cupcakes are just about full, creating an artful and delicious multi-layered treat.

Step 5: Finish with Cocoa Powder

Generously sift unsweetened cocoa powder over the top of each cup for that classic tiramisu look and subtle bitterness balancing the sweetness. For extra flair, sprinkle some chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips to give your Tiramisu Cookie Cups an inviting, polished finish. Pop them in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight to let the flavors meld and the layers set perfectly.

How to Serve Tiramisu Cookie Cups

Garnishes

A light dusting of cocoa powder is a must, but you can take it to the next level with a few chocolate shavings or tiny chocolate chips sprinkled on top. Fresh mint leaves or a couple of espresso beans can add an elegant touch and an extra burst of aroma. These small details really make your Tiramisu Cookie Cups stand out and invite hungry eyes to the table.

Side Dishes

Because the Tiramisu Cookie Cups are rich and indulgent, pairing them with fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries cuts through the creaminess beautifully. A crisp biscotti or lightly salted nuts on the side can also offer a nice crunch balance. If you’re feeling extra spirited, serve with a shot of espresso or a small glass of dessert wine to heighten the cozy Italian dessert vibe.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Tiramisu Cookie Cups in clear, mini glass jars or pretty ramekins instead of liners for an elegant twist that’s perfect for entertaining. You could also stack them in a dessert parfait glass, alternating with extra crushed cookies or coffee-soaked ladyfingers for a layered tiramisu-inspired take. Personalize each serving with a little chocolate decoration or a dusting of edible gold powder to impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Tiramisu Cookie Cups keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days, making them an excellent make-ahead dessert. Keep them covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container to prevent drying out and to preserve those delicate layers.

Freezing

You can freeze these delightful cups for up to one month. Wrap each cup individually in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container to protect them from freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator to retain that creamy texture perfectly.

Reheating

These cups are best served chilled, so reheating isn’t recommended. If you find they’re too cold after freezing, simply let them sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving. This will help the flavors open up without losing the signature tiramisu creaminess in your Tiramisu Cookie Cups.

FAQs

Can I make Tiramisu Cookie Cups without coffee liqueur?

Absolutely! Coffee liqueur adds a boozy depth but isn’t essential. The espresso provides plenty of coffee flavor, so your cups will still taste incredible without it.

What type of cookies work best for the base?

Chocolate sandwich cookies like Oreos are a fantastic choice because they’re crunchy, chocolatey, and readily available. You can also try chocolate graham crackers or chocolate wafer cookies if you want a slightly different texture.

How long does it take to assemble the cups?

Once all components are prepared, assembling the layers and chilling between each usually takes about 30 to 40 minutes. The rewarding creamy, layered effect makes the extra care totally worth it!

Can I use regular cream cheese instead of mascarpone?

While regular cream cheese can be a substitute, mascarpone’s richness and smooth texture are key to authentic tiramisu flavor. If you do substitute, beat the cream cheese with a little heavy cream to soften it for better results.

Are Tiramisu Cookie Cups gluten-free?

Traditional chocolate cookies often contain gluten, so these cups aren’t naturally gluten-free. However, using gluten-free chocolate cookies as a base can easily make the dessert friendly for gluten-sensitive guests.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about these Tiramisu Cookie Cups—the way they bring together crunch, cream, coffee, and chocolate in such a charming package. I hope this recipe inspires you to whip up a batch for your next gathering or a cozy night in. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll quickly become a beloved favorite for you and everyone lucky enough to taste them!

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