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Perfect Irish Coffee Tiramisu Cups Recipe with Easy Whiskey Mascarpone Cream

Irish Coffee Tiramisu Cups - featured image

A cozy and indulgent dessert combining the rich flavors of Irish coffee and tiramisu, featuring whiskey-infused mascarpone cream and coffee-soaked ladyfingers. Perfect for a warm, comforting treat with a grown-up twist.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (240 ml) strong brewed espresso or coffee, cooled
  • 3 tablespoons (45 ml) Irish whiskey (Jameson recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons (25 g) brown sugar
  • 1 cup (240 g) mascarpone cheese, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream, cold
  • 1/4 cup (30 g) powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) Irish whiskey
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • About 24 ladyfingers
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
  • Dark chocolate shavings or curls (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Coffee Soak: In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup (240 ml) of strong brewed espresso, 3 tablespoons (45 ml) Irish whiskey, and 2 tablespoons (25 g) brown sugar. Warm gently over low heat just until the sugar dissolves (about 3 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool completely to room temperature.
  2. Whip the Cream: In a chilled bowl, beat 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream until soft peaks form. Set aside.
  3. Mix Mascarpone Cream: In another bowl, whisk 1 cup (240 g) mascarpone, 1/4 cup (30 g) powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons (30 ml) Irish whiskey, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold in the whipped cream using a spatula, combining carefully to keep it airy.
  4. Assemble the Cups: Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the cooled coffee mixture—just a quick dunk, about 1 second per side, to avoid sogginess. Line the bottom of serving cups with a layer of soaked ladyfingers.
  5. Add Whiskey Mascarpone Layer: Spoon a generous layer of the whiskey mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers, smoothing the surface.
  6. Repeat Layers: Add another soaked ladyfinger layer, then top with more mascarpone cream. Finish with mascarpone cream on top.
  7. Chill: Cover the cups with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to let flavors meld and texture set.
  8. Finishing Touch: Just before serving, dust the tops with sifted unsweetened cocoa powder and sprinkle dark chocolate shavings if desired.

Notes

Do not over-soak ladyfingers; a quick 1-second dip per side preserves texture. Use room temperature mascarpone for smooth mixing. Whip cream to soft peaks to keep mascarpone cream light and airy. Chill at least 4 hours or overnight for best flavor and texture. Dust cocoa powder just before serving to keep it fresh. Bourbon can substitute Irish whiskey if needed; for dairy-free, use coconut cream and dairy-free cream cheese alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: Irish coffee, tiramisu, whiskey mascarpone cream, dessert cups, easy tiramisu, coffee dessert, whiskey dessert