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Tiramisu

Easy Alcohol-Free Tiramisu Cups

This single-serve tiramisu cup offers all the creamy, coffee-rich indulgence of the classic Italian dessert—without any alcohol. It’s layered with espresso-soaked ladyfingers, velvety mascarpone cream, and a dusting of cocoa powder for that irresistible café-style finish.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Chill time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Coffee Layer:
  • 1 cup strong brewed coffee or espresso cooled
  • 1 tablespoon sugar optional, to taste
For the Cream Mixture:
  • 1 cup mascarpone cheese about 225 g
  • 1 cup heavy cream chilled
  • ¼ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
For Assembly:
  • 12–16 ladyfinger biscuits savoiardi
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls – for preparing the mascarpone mixture and whipping cream
  • Hand mixer or stand mixer – to whip the cream and blend the mascarpone filling smoothly
  • Spatula or whisk – for folding ingredients together gently
  • Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient portions
  • Small sieve or fine mesh sifter – for dusting cocoa powder evenly on top
  • Coffee maker or espresso machine – to brew strong coffee or espresso
  • Shallow dish or bowl – to dip ladyfingers in coffee
  • Dessert cups, glasses, or ramekins – for assembling individual servings
  • Plastic wrap or lids – to cover and chill the tiramisu cups
  • Optional:
  • Piping bag – if you want to layer the mascarpone cream neatly for a professional look.
  • Grater or peeler – for adding fresh chocolate shavings on top before serving.

Method
 

  1. Brew the Coffee: Prepare a cup of strong coffee or espresso and let it cool completely. Stir in sugar if desired.
  2. Make the Cream Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the chilled heavy cream until soft peaks form. In another bowl, whisk together mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully combined and fluffy.
  3. Assemble the Cups: Quickly dip each ladyfinger in the cooled coffee (don’t soak too long). Break them into pieces and layer the bottom of each dessert cup. Spoon a layer of mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers. Repeat the layers (ladyfingers + cream) until the cup is full.
  4. Finish & Chill: Smooth the top, cover, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to set.
  5. Serve: Before serving, dust generously with cocoa powder using a fine sieve.

Notes

Additional Notes & Tips

 
  • Use cold ingredients: Keep your heavy cream and mascarpone chilled before mixing — this helps the cream whip faster and hold its shape.
  • Don’t over-soak the ladyfingers: A quick 1–2 second dip in the coffee is enough. If they’re too soggy, your tiramisu layers can become mushy.
  • Make ahead: Tiramisu tastes even better the next day, when the flavors have blended. You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance.
  • Storage: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing, as it can affect the creamy texture.
  • Decaf option: For a caffeine-free version, use decaf espresso or instant coffee — it won’t change the flavor.
  • Dairy-free alternative: Substitute mascarpone with vegan cream cheese and heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
  • Serving idea: Add chocolate curls, coffee beans, or a drizzle of chocolate syrup on top for an elegant presentation.
  • Kid-friendly dessert: Since it’s alcohol-free, this tiramisu is perfect for family gatherings, holidays, and coffee lovers of all ages.