Individual Tiramisu

Rich, decadent layers of mascarpone cheese and espresso soaked ladyfingers make up these irresistible individual tiramisu cups.

  • Total 4 hours 30 minutes
  • Serves 4 tiramisu
  • Dessert
  • American, Italian
Jump to the recipe
Individual Tiramisu

Rich, decadent layers of mascarpone cheese and espresso soaked ladyfingers make up these irresistible individual tiramisu cups.

Individual Tiramisu in little jars more

Why this recipe works

An individual tiramisu is the perfect indulgent treat to enjoy on your own or to bring along to parties. Creamy, luscious layers combine to create a melt-in-your-mouth experience, and did we mention this is a no-bake recipe? So easy!

We’ve made many versions of tiramisu, quite similar to this recipe is our tiramisu trifles in mason jars, as well as our full sized tiramisu trifle. As for smaller portions, this recipe for individual servings is perfect for a nice light yet overly satisfying dessert.

Individual Tiramisu sitting in a muffin tin

Ingredients you will need

Get all measurements, ingredients, and instructions in the printable version at the end of this post.

ingredients for making Individual Tiramisu

Ingredient Info and Substitution Suggestions

ESPRESSO – To make things easier, we’re using instant espresso powder. If you’d like to brew up some fresh espresso for this, feel free to do so! You may also substitute for a dark roast coffee as well. If you plan to brew fresh coffee, allow it cool before using.

MASCARPONE – This creamy cheese is mixed with a bit of sugar, espresso, and vanilla which is then blended with heavy cream creating a smooth and delicious consistency.

How to Make Individual Tiramisu

These step by step photos and instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this recipe. You can Jump to Recipe to get the printable version of this recipe, complete with measurements and instructions at the bottom.

  1. In a large bowl, add the heavy cream and whip it up using a hand mixer until stiff peaks form.
  2. In another bowl, add the mascarpone cheese, 1/2 tsp instant espresso powder, sugar, and vanilla extract mixing well.mascarpone cheese in a bowl
  3. Add this mixture to the heavy cream and combine using a spatula, then switch to a hand mixer and blend until everything is mixed well. The mixture should hold its shape and look creamy. Add this to a Ziploc bag or icing bag and keep it aside.
  4. Heat up a half a cup of water, then add 1 tbsp of instant espresso powder and mix well. Keep aside. Use it when it’s at room temperature.
  5. Dip your lady finger for about a second in the espresso mixture and start layering them in the serving bowls you like.dipping a ladyfinger into coffeeladyfingers in mini cups
  6. Start with one layer of ladyfingers dipped in espresso, then add the cream, then layer again with a ladyfinger, then cream.tiramisu triflesmascarpone cheese mixture with ladyfingers in a cup
  7. Chill for a minimum of 4 hours. Dust with cocoa powder before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips

Can I use coffee instead of instant espresso?

Yes, a nice dark roast coffee can be substituted for the instant espresso powder. Allow it to come to room temperature before using.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, but we would suggest only making the cream mixture in advance and storing it in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. These are great for making one day in advance, as the mixture will firm up well when kept in the refrigerator overnight. Dust them with cocoa powder before serving.

Can I freeze individual tiramisu?

Though I haven’t tried freezing them myself, I would assume they would do just fine kept in the freezer for a month or two. Be sure you use freezer-safe serving glasses if doing so.

How long do these keep in the refrigerator?

Individual tiramisu will last in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The mixture may begin to separate if kept longer than that.

Individual Tiramisu with a spoon removed

Serving Suggestions

Serve your individual tiramisu in 4-5oz glasses. You can double or triple this recipe to make more to feed the size of your crowd accordingly as this recipe only make 4 servings. Other topping ideas aside from dusted cocoa powder include shaved chocolate or whipped topping.

More Tiramisu Recipes

I love to bake and cook and share my kitchen experience with all of you! Remembering to come back each day can be tough, that’s why I offer a convenient newsletter every time a new recipe posts. Simply subscribe and start receiving your free daily recipes!