Description
These Tiramisu Cookie Cups are a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert, featuring a crunchy chocolate cookie base layered with rich coffee-chocolate pudding and a smooth mascarpone cream. Perfectly portioned in cupcake liners, they make an elegant and easy-to-serve treat that blends bold espresso flavors with creamy, sweet textures. Ideal for coffee lovers and chocolate enthusiasts alike, these no-fuss cups are chilled to set, ensuring a luscious bite every time.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cookie Base:
- 1 ½ cups crushed chocolate cookies (such as Oreos)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the Coffee-Chocolate Layer:
- ⅓ cup strong brewed espresso, cooled
- 1 tbsp coffee liqueur (optional)
- ⅓ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
For the Mascarpone Cream Layer:
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese, room temperature
- ½ cup heavy cream, cold
- ⅓ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- Unsweetened cocoa powder
- Optional: chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips
Instructions
- Make the Cookie Base: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. Combine the crushed cookies and melted butter in a bowl, mixing until the texture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of each liner to create a compact base. Bake for 5 minutes, then allow to cool completely.
- Prepare the Coffee-Chocolate Layer: In a small saucepan, combine the espresso, coffee liqueur (if using), chocolate chips, and butter. Melt over low heat, stirring until smooth. In a separate bowl, whisk the heavy cream and cornstarch until fully combined and lump-free. Gradually add this mixture to the saucepan, stirring constantly over medium heat until it thickens to a pudding-like consistency. Remove from heat and cool to room temperature.
- Whip the Mascarpone Cream: In a bowl, beat the mascarpone, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully combined.
- Assemble the Tiramisu Cups: Begin layering by adding 1-2 tablespoons of either the mascarpone cream or coffee-chocolate mixture onto the cookie base. Smooth the layer, then add an alternate layer of the opposite filling. Repeat until the liners are nearly full, chilling the cups for 10 minutes between layers to maintain stability and definition.
- Finish with Cocoa Powder: Sift cocoa powder generously over the top of each cup. For added garnish, sprinkle chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips as desired. Refrigerate the cups for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the layers to set and flavors to meld.
Notes
- For a non-alcoholic version, omit the coffee liqueur.
- Adjust the espresso strength to taste for a milder or bolder coffee flavor.
- Ensure the coffee-chocolate layer is cooled before layering to prevent melting the mascarpone cream.
- Use cupcake liners with a sturdy base to maintain the shape of the cookie cups during baking.
- Chilling between layers helps maintain distinct layers and improves texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 55mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
