Espresso-Rum Tiramisu Cups
Espresso-Rum Tiramisu Cups
Description
Layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, dark rum, and silky mascarpone cream topped with cocoa powder and chocolate shavings for an elegant Italian-inspired dessert.
Fun Fact
Tiramisu originated in the Veneto region of Italy and translates roughly to “pick me up.” The combination of espresso, mascarpone cheese, and cocoa has made it one of the world’s most beloved desserts. Modern versions often incorporate liqueurs such as dark rum, Marsala wine, or coffee liqueur for added depth and richness.
Cuisine
Italian
Prep Time
25 Minutes
Chill Time
4 Hours
Servings
6
Difficulty
Easy
Dietary Tags
Dessert, Italian Cuisine, No-Bake, Alcohol-Infused
Ingredients
Espresso-Rum Soak
- 1 cup strong espresso, cooled
- ¼ cup dark rum
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
Mascarpone Cream
- 16 oz mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Layers & Garnish
- 24 ladyfinger cookies
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- ¼ cup dark chocolate shavings
- Chocolate-covered espresso beans (optional)
Prep Tools
- Electric mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Fine mesh sieve
- Dessert glasses or parfait cups
- Piping bag (optional)
Seasoning & Flavor Pairings
Flavor Notes
- Espresso
- Dark rum
- Vanilla
- Cocoa
- Mascarpone
Perfect Garnishes
- Chocolate curls
- Espresso beans
- Cocoa powder
- Dark chocolate drizzle
Pair With
- Espresso
- Cappuccino
- Coffee liqueur
- Dessert wine
Excerpt
Indulge in layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, fluffy mascarpone cream, and dark rum finished with rich cocoa and chocolate shavings. These elegant Espresso-Rum Tiramisu Cups deliver the classic flavors of Italy in an easy-to-serve individual dessert.
Ingredients
Espresso-Rum Soak, Mascarpone Cream & Garnish
Recommended items may earn ND a commission from qualifying purchases.
Steps
-
Prepare the Cream (10 Minutes)
Whip heavy cream until soft peaks form. In a separate bowl, combine mascarpone, powdered sugar, and vanilla. Fold whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until smooth and fluffy.
-
Prepare the Coffee Mixture (5 Minutes)
Combine cooled espresso, dark rum, and brown sugar in a shallow bowl. Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the mixture, ensuring it absorbs flavor without becoming soggy.
-
Build the Tiramisu Cups (10 Minutes)
Layer soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of each dessert glass. Add a layer of mascarpone cream. Repeat the layers until the cups are full, finishing with cream on top.
-
Chill & Serve (4 Hours)
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. Before serving, dust generously with cocoa powder and garnish with chocolate shavings and espresso beans.
Nutrition
Chef's Note
For the best flavor, allow the tiramisu to chill overnight.
Marsala wine or coffee liqueur can replace the dark rum.
Do not soak the ladyfingers for more than 1-2 seconds or they may become too soft.
Serve chilled for the perfect creamy texture.
Ready to make this dish?
Get the recipe, shop ingredients, book a cooking class and more.
