Delicious tiramisu cookie cups topped with cocoa and coffee flavors.

Emma’s Delicious Tiramisu Cookie Cups

21 janvier 2026 par Chef Hanna Zest

Introduction

This quick tiramisu-in-a-cup delivers classic flavor with minimal fuss and fast assembly. It’s perfect when you want a coffee-forward dessert that looks and tastes impressive. Prep is mostly assembly, so you can multitask while chilling. If you need other speedy sweets, try our double chocolate chip cookies for an easy pairing.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe strips tiramisu down to its essentials so you get the creamy mascarpone and coffee-soaked cookie layers without long soak times or elaborate steps. Using crushed ladyfingers speeds assembly and makes portioning simple in individual cups. Whipping the cream to soft peaks keeps the filling light and stable while still tasting rich. Folding rather than overmixing preserves air and gives the cups a mousse-like lift. Chilling lets flavors meld and the cookie layers soften just enough for easy spooning. The format also makes it ideal for entertaining because you can make multiple cups at once.

Flavor and Texture

Expect bold coffee notes balanced by the smooth, slightly tangy mascarpone mixture. The whipped cream adds a cloudlike texture and lifts the richness so the dessert never feels heavy. Crushed ladyfingers give a tender, cake-like base that soaks up espresso quickly but keeps a pleasant bite. A dusting of cocoa on top provides just the right bitter lift to finish each spoonful. Optional chocolate shavings add texture and a glossy contrast for presentation.

Ingredients

1 cup espresso or strong coffee, cooled
1 cup mascarpone cheese
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup ladyfinger cookies, crushed
Cocoa powder for dusting
Chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)

Step by Step Instructions

In a bowl, whip the heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
In another bowl, mix mascarpone cheese until smooth.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone until fully combined.
Dip the crushed ladyfinger cookies in the espresso, and layer them at the bottom of serving cups.
Add a layer of the mascarpone mixture over the cookies.
Repeat the layers until the cups are filled, ending with the mascarpone mixture.
Dust the top with cocoa powder and garnish with chocolate shavings if desired.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.

Quick Tips and Shortcuts

Use pre-brewed espresso or a strong cold-brew concentrate to save time cool it before dipping the cookies. If you’re short on ladyfingers, crisp sponge cake or soft biscuits crushed to size work well as substitutes. Assemble everything in a single bowl area to move quickly: whipped cream, mascarpone, crushed cookies, and espresso station. For party prep, fill cups an hour ahead and finish cocoa right before serving to keep the dusting fresh. For more quick dessert hacks, check the Buckeye Brownie Cookies post for plating and make-ahead ideas.

Storage and Meal Prep

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to three days; the texture softens over time but flavors deepen. If packing for transport, chill fully and keep sealed to avoid spills and to preserve the cocoa dusting. To freeze, use airtight containers and thaw overnight in the fridge note the texture will change slightly. Label containers with the date so you use the freshest cups first.

Short Closing Note

This recipe balances speed and flavor so you can serve a stylish dessert without a long recipe. It’s great for last-minute guests or weekly meal prep when you want a treat ready to go.

Conclusion

For another no-fuss, budget-friendly dessert idea from the same creator, see One Dollar Birthday Cake which pairs well with individual servings like these tiramisu cookie cups.

FAQ

Can this be made in under 30 minutes?

Yes, the recipe is designed to be quick and efficient.

Does it work for meal prep?

Most versions store well for one to three days.

Can I customize the ingredients?

Yes, simple swaps can be made for convenience or dietary needs.