Name: Easy Individual Tiramisu Cups Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 ounces mascarpone at room temperature; 1 cup heavy whipping cream cold from the fridge; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 tablespoon pure vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon almond extract or hazelnut extract (optional); 2/3 cup cooled espresso or double-strength brewed coffee; 2 tablespoons brandy or marsala wine, rum, hazelnut liqueur, almond liqueur, or coffee liqueur (optional; or more espresso); 12 ladyfingers each broken in half; 2 teaspoons unsweetened cocoa powder for topping; 2 teaspoons dark chocolate curls or shaved dark chocolate (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 4.6 from 4 reviews

If you’re craving a show-stopping dessert that feels indulgent but doesn’t stress you out in the kitchen, then you’re going to adore this Easy Individual Tiramisu Cups Recipe. It’s the perfect balance of rich mascarpone mousse, coffee-soaked ladyfingers, and just enough chocolate to make each bite heavenly. I promise, once you try these, they’ll become your go-to for dinner parties or any time you want a fuss-free, elegant dessert.

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Why This Recipe Works

Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry basics and a handful of fresh ingredients for easy prep.
No Assembly Stress: Layers come together quickly in individual cups – no messy slicing needed.
Customizable: You can tweak the liqueur, garnish, or even substitute ladyfingers with your favorites.

Easy Individual Tiramisu Cups, individual tiramisu dessert, quick tiramisu recipe, no-bake tiramisu cups, elegant coffee dessert - This image shows a close-up view of two white cups of dessert and a white cup of coffee on a white marbled surface. One dessert cup is partly eaten, revealing three layers: a light brown crumbly base at the bottom, a thick creamy white middle layer, and a dusting of cocoa powder topping with scattered dark chocolate chunks and whole hazelnuts. A golden spoon is scooping some from the partly eaten cup. The other dessert cup is full with the same creamy white layer topped with cocoa powder, chocolate chunks, and hazelnuts. Coffee beans and broken chocolate pieces are scattered around the cups. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Ingredients & Why They Work

The beauty of this Easy Individual Tiramisu Cups Recipe is how these ingredients all have distinct roles but blend effortlessly: creamy mascarpone mousse balances the bold coffee notes, while ladyfingers soak up just the right amount of espresso without getting soggy. Pick fresh mascarpone and cold heavy cream for that perfect light yet luscious texture.

Easy Individual Tiramisu Cups, individual tiramisu dessert, quick tiramisu recipe, no-bake tiramisu cups, elegant coffee dessert - Flat lay of a small mound of fresh mascarpone cheese, a small white ceramic bowl of cold heavy whipping cream, a small white bowl filled with fine powdered sugar, a single vanilla bean pod beside a small white bowl of clear vanilla extract, a few whole uncracked brown eggs, a small white bowl with amber brandy, a shallow white ceramic bowl filled with dark cooled espresso, a neat stack of golden ladyfinger biscuits, a small white bowl with unsweetened cocoa powder, and a few dark chocolate curls scattered nearby, all arranged symmetrically and balanced, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Mascarpone: This Italian cream cheese gives a velvety richness without being heavy, the star of the mousse.
Heavy whipping cream: Cold and fresh to whip into fluffy peaks that lighten the mascarpone.
Powdered sugar: Blends smoothly into the mousse for just the right sweetness.
Vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic base note that makes the dessert feel homier.
Almond or hazelnut extract (optional): A subtle twist that enhances the nutty undertones if you want to get fancy.
Espresso or strong coffee: Key to that classic tiramisu punch, cooled so it won’t melt layers prematurely.
Liqueur (optional): Brandy, marsala, or coffee liqueur adds a boozy depth; feel free to skip or swap depending on your vibe.
Ladyfingers: The perfect light sponge for soaking up espresso without collapsing.
Cocoa powder: For dusting on top, a bittersweet finish that’s essential for taste and presentation.
Dark chocolate curls (optional): Adds an elegant texture and visual flair for those special moments.

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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One of the things I love most about this Easy Individual Tiramisu Cups Recipe is how easy it is to customize without losing any of its classic charm. You can swap out liqueurs or extracts or even turn it into a kid-friendly treat. It’s really about making it feel like your own little dessert masterpiece.

Variation: I’ve tried using almond extract instead of hazelnut, and it adds a lovely, subtle nuttiness without overpowering the whole cup.
Dairy-Free Option: You could substitute mascarpone for a coconut cream mousse if you want to keep it dairy-free, though the flavor shifts slightly.
Kid-Friendly Version: Skip the liqueur altogether and double up on the espresso for that bold coffee flavor without any alcohol.
Seasonal Touch: Add fresh raspberries between layers for a bright pop of color and tart contrast—delicious in spring and summer!

Step-by-Step: How I Make Easy Individual Tiramisu Cups Recipe

Step 1: Whip Up That Creamy Mascarpone Mousse

Start by combining mascarpone, cold heavy cream, powdered sugar, vanilla, and your optional almond or hazelnut extract in a large bowl. Use a handheld mixer — trust me, it’s your best friend here — and beat everything on medium speed until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and holds soft peaks. Watch this part closely; if you over-mix, the cream can curdle, and that’s a texture we want to avoid. This mousse is what makes the tiramisu feel so luxurious, so take your time and enjoy this part!

Step 2: Prep the Espresso Soak

Pour your cooled espresso or strong coffee into a shallow bowl and stir in the brandy or your chosen liqueur if you’re using one. This is where the magic happens: the coffee soak infuses each ladyfinger with that signature tiramisu boldness. Just be careful not to soak the ladyfingers too long — a quick 1 to 2 seconds per side is plenty to get them moist but not soggy. I learned the hard way that over-soaking makes the cups watery, and no one wants that!

Step 3: Build Your Tiramisu Cups

Grab your serving glasses (I use 12-ounce glasses for just the right portion size) and start with a spoonful of the mascarpone mousse at the bottom. Next, dip two ladyfinger halves in your espresso mixture and layer them right on top. Another layer of mousse follows, then another set of dipped ladyfingers, and finally a top layer of mousse to finish. Repeat the process until you’ve made six individual cups ready to impress.

Step 4: Garnish and Chill

Dust the tops with a generous sift of unsweetened cocoa powder and sprinkle some dark chocolate curls if you’re feeling fancy. If you can, let these beauties chill in the fridge for at least 10 minutes — even better if you let them sit up to 4 days for the flavors to meld beautifully. I sometimes make these ahead for a weekend treat, and they only taste better with time!

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Tips from My Kitchen

Don’t Over-Soak Ladyfingers: A quick dip keeps them moist but prevents sogginess, preserving that dreamy texture.
Keep Whipping Equipment Chill: I pop my mixer bowl in the fridge for 10 minutes beforehand — it helps get the cream whipped up faster and fluffier.
Use Good Espresso: Strong, fresh espresso makes a world of difference; instant coffee just won’t cut it here.
Layer Evenly: Spreading mousse evenly between layers keeps flavors balanced and cups looking beautiful when served.

How to Serve Easy Individual Tiramisu Cups Recipe

Easy Individual Tiramisu Cups, individual tiramisu dessert, quick tiramisu recipe, no-bake tiramisu cups, elegant coffee dessert - The image shows five glass cups filled with a creamy, light beige dessert topped with a layer of sprinkled cocoa powder and dark chocolate curls, creating a textured and slightly swirled surface. Each cup has a frothy, airy cream layer on top, while the lower part appears smooth and dense. A white coffee cup filled with dark brown espresso is placed to the right side, partially visible. Scattered dark brown coffee beans and uneven chocolate pieces are placed around the cups on a white marbled surface. Two light brown ladyfinger biscuits lie near the bottom right, and a fine metal sieve with some cocoa powder and coffee beans rests on the left side. There is also a beige linen cloth on the upper left corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

For garnishes, my go-to is a generous dusting of unsweetened cocoa powder and a few shaved dark chocolate curls. It adds that extra touch of decadence and a lovely contrast to the creamy texture. Sometimes, I toss on a few fresh raspberries or a sprig of mint to brighten it up visually and flavor-wise.

Side Dishes

Because these cups are so rich and satisfying on their own, I usually keep sides simple—think alongside a light mixed green salad if it’s part of a bigger meal, or just serve as the grand finale. Coffee or dessert wine pair wonderfully for an at-home café vibe.

Creative Ways to Present

I’ve had fun serving these tiramisu cups in vintage teacups or mini mason jars for parties, making them feel extra special without any extra effort. For holiday gatherings, topping with a small edible gold leaf or dusting cinnamon and nutmeg alongside cocoa adds festivity. You can also layer fruit jams between mascarpone layers for a colorful twist, especially when entertaining kids.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once assembled, cover your tiramisu cups tightly with plastic wrap or lids and store in the fridge for up to 4 days. I recommend keeping them chilled until just before serving so that creamy texture and coffee-infused flavor stay fresh and delightful.

Freezing

Freezing works surprisingly well for this recipe. I wrap each cup securely in plastic wrap, place them in an airtight container, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving, or if you’re feeling adventurous, enjoy them slightly frozen for a tiramisu ice cream effect.

Reheating

Because tiramisu is best served cold, reheating isn’t necessary. However, after thawing frozen cups, bring them nearly to room temperature in the fridge before serving for optimal texture. Avoid microwaving as it can undo the delicate mousse and texture.

FAQs

Can I make the Easy Individual Tiramisu Cups Recipe without alcohol?

Absolutely! The optional liqueur adds depth of flavor but isn’t essential. Simply omit it and use more espresso or coffee instead, and your tiramisu cups will still taste deliciously rich and creamy.
What can I substitute for ladyfingers?

You can swap ladyfingers for sponge cake, pound cake, or even cookies like Nilla wafers or Biscoff. Just keep in mind these alternatives will change the texture and flavor, but it’s a fun twist if you want to experiment.
How long can I prepare the tiramisu cups in advance?

You can prepare and store the cups in the fridge for up to 4 days. In fact, letting them sit allows time for the flavors to blend beautifully, making the dessert even tastier the next day.
Can I use regular coffee instead of espresso?

While espresso is traditional because of its concentrated flavor, you can use very strong brewed coffee as a substitute. Just brew it extra strong to capture that bold taste.
What size glasses work best for serving?

I prefer 12-ounce glasses, which provide a satisfying individual portion. But you can use whatever size you have—smaller glasses make perfect dessert shooters, while larger ones work for generous helpings.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Individual Tiramisu Cups Recipe has become one of my favorite desserts to whip up when I want something beautiful but without a lot of fuss. The layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and fluffy mascarpone mousse always impress guests, and I love how flexible it is to make it my own. Give it a try—you’ll see how simple it is to create a classic Italian treat right in your kitchen. Trust me, once you try these cups, they’ll be your new favorite dessert hack for any occasion.