Ingredients:

For the Cupcakes:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure to the cupcakes.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder – Helps the cupcakes rise.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – Adds moisture and richness.
• 1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the cupcakes.
• 2 large eggs – Adds structure and moisture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances flavor.
• 1/2 cup milk – Keeps the cupcakes soft and fluffy.
• 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled – Infuses the cupcakes with a rich coffee flavor.

For the Mascarpone Frosting:

• 1 cup mascarpone cheese – Adds a creamy, slightly tangy richness.
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream – Helps create a light, fluffy frosting.
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar – Sweetens the frosting without making it heavy.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a hint of warmth and flavor.
• Cocoa powder (for dusting) – Gives a classic tiramisu finish.

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Cupcake Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar with a hand mixer until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition, then add the vanilla extract.
5. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and the milk and coffee to the butter mixture. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined after each addition. Avoid over-mixing to keep the cupcakes light and fluffy.

Step 2: Bake the Cupcakes

1. Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.
2. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Step 3: Prepare the Mascarpone Frosting

1. In a mixing bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese, heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract on medium speed.
2. Continue beating until the frosting is thick and fluffy. Be careful not to overbeat, as mascarpone can curdle if overworked.

Step 4: Frost the Cupcakes

1. Use a piping bag or a spatula to frost the cooled cupcakes with the mascarpone frosting.
2. Dust each cupcake with a light sprinkle of cocoa powder for a beautiful, tiramisu-inspired finish.

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per cupcake, based on 12 cupcakes):

• Calories: 300
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 20g
• Sodium: 100mg

Note: Nutrition may vary based on ingredients and portion sizes.

FAQs:

1. Can I make these cupcakes without coffee?
Yes, you can replace the coffee with an equal amount of milk if you prefer a non-coffee version. However, coffee is essential to creating the classic tiramisu flavor profile.

2. Can I use cream cheese instead of mascarpone?
While mascarpone is traditional for tiramisu, you can substitute it with cream cheese for a slightly tangier frosting. The texture will be a bit different, but still delicious.

3. How do I avoid over-beating the mascarpone frosting?
Beat on medium speed just until stiff peaks form. Stop as soon as the frosting holds its shape, as over-beating can make the mascarpone curdle or become grainy.

4. Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the cupcakes a day in advance and frost them on the day of serving. Store the cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature until you’re ready to frost.

5. Can I freeze these cupcakes?
The unfrosted cupcakes freeze well. Wrap each cupcake tightly in plastic wrap and place in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw them completely before frosting.

Tips for Making Perfect Tiramisu-Inspired Cupcakes:

1. Use Strong Coffee: Brew a strong coffee or espresso to get the best flavor. Instant espresso powder dissolved in hot water also works well.
2. Cool the Coffee Completely: Make sure the coffee is cool before adding it to the batter, as hot coffee can start to melt the butter.
3. Softened Butter: Using softened butter helps create a fluffy cupcake texture. Cold butter won’t incorporate well and can lead to dense cupcakes.
4. Avoid Over-mixing the Batter: Over-mixing can cause dense, tough cupcakes. Mix until just combined for a tender texture.
5. Pipe or Frost Carefully: If you want a more sophisticated look, use a piping bag with a star tip to frost the cupcakes.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: Store the frosted cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, as mascarpone is perishable.

Freezing (Unfrosted): Freeze unfrosted cupcakes by wrapping each in plastic wrap and placing them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw completely before frosting and serving.

Freezing (Frosted): While it’s possible to freeze frosted cupcakes, the texture of the frosting may change. If freezing, place the frosted cupcakes on a tray in the freezer until frozen solid, then wrap each in plastic wrap and place in an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator.

Conclusion:

These Tiramisu-Inspired Coffee Cupcakes with Mascarpone Frosting offer a creative way to enjoy the flavors of tiramisu in a hand-held form. Each bite combines the depth of coffee with a soft, moist cupcake and the creamy richness of mascarpone frosting. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, these cupcakes are perfect for any occasion, from a casual gathering to an elegant dessert display. Impress your friends and family with this unique dessert that brings a gourmet twist to a classic cupcake!