Moist vanilla sponge cake soaked with espresso in the middle and topped with the most luxurious mascarpone cream makes these tiramisu cupcakes highly irresistible.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
1/2 cup (114g) unsalted butter, softened, 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then beat in the vanilla.
2 large eggs, 1 tsp vanilla extract
Stir in half of the flour mixture. Mix in the milk. Stir in the remaining flour mixture until just combined.
1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
Divide the batter evenly among the paper liners. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool for 10 minutes and transfer to a wire rack.
Poke some holes with a small fork in the center top of the cupcakes and slowly spoon in 3 teaspoons of syrup into each cupcake allowing it to soak in.
1/2 cup 120ml freshly brewed espresso (or 1/2 cup hot water mixed with 2 tbsp espresso powder/instant coffee granules), 2 Tbsp granulated sugar, 2 Tbsp coffee liqueur
In a medium bowl, beat the heavy cream to soft peaks. Set aside.
3/4 cup (180ml) heavy cream
In a large bowl, mix the mascarpone cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add in the whipped cream and continue mixing until combined.
3/4 cup (170g) mascarpone cheese, softened, 1/2 cup powdered sugar, 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Transfer the mascarpone mixture into a piping bag fitted with a tip of choice and pipe a good amount of frosting on top of each cupcake. Dust with cocoa powder and top with coffee beans (if using) before serving.
1 tsp cocoa powder for dusting, 12 whole coffee beans for topping
Notes
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.