Vanilla Bean Tiramisu Cups (Printable Version)

Creamy vanilla mascarpone layered with espresso-soaked ladyfingers and dusted cocoa in elegant cups.

# Ingredient List:

→ Vanilla Bean Mascarpone Cream

01 - 1 cup heavy cream, cold
02 - 1 vanilla bean, seeds scraped, or 2 teaspoons pure vanilla bean paste
03 - 1/2 cup powdered sugar
04 - 8 ounces mascarpone cheese, cold

→ Espresso Dip

05 - 3/4 cup strong brewed espresso or coffee, cooled
06 - 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur, optional

→ Assembly

07 - 18 to 20 ladyfinger biscuits (savoiardi)
08 - 1 tablespoon cocoa powder, for dusting
09 - Whipped cream, for topping, optional
10 - Chocolate shavings or coffee beans, for garnish, optional

# Steps:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cold heavy cream, vanilla bean seeds or paste, and powdered sugar until soft peaks form.
02 - Gently fold the cold mascarpone cheese into the whipped cream mixture until smooth and fully combined, taking care not to overmix.
03 - In a shallow dish, combine the cooled espresso with coffee liqueur if using.
04 - Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the espresso mixture for 1 to 2 seconds per side, ensuring they remain firm without soaking.
05 - Arrange dipped ladyfingers as the base layer in six small dessert cups or glasses.
06 - Spoon a generous layer of vanilla bean mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers.
07 - Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers followed by a final layer of cream, smoothing the tops evenly.
08 - Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours until fully set and chilled.
09 - Dust each cup generously with cocoa powder and top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings or a coffee bean if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Individual portions make serving and presentation effortless
  • Combines the sophistication of tiramisu with the comfort of vanilla bean flavor
  • No baking required—perfect for warm weather or busy schedules
  • Can be prepared a full day ahead for stress-free entertaining
  • Coffee and dessert in one irresistible cup
02 -
  • Chill your mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer for 10 minutes before whipping cream for best results
  • Don't skip the resting time—2 hours minimum allows flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly
  • Use freshly brewed espresso cooled to room temperature for the most authentic flavor
  • Dust with cocoa powder just before serving to maintain a fresh, vibrant appearance
  • Keep ladyfingers whole or break them to fit your serving glasses as needed
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