Tiramisu Pudding Cups are a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert, offering all the rich flavors of traditional tiramisu in a convenient, individual serving. These elegant cups feature creamy mascarpone pudding layered with coffee-soaked ladyfingers and dusted with cocoa powder, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself, these pudding cups will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
For the Pudding:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee (cooled)
For the Ladyfingers:
- 1 package of ladyfinger cookies (savoiardi)
- 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee (cooled)
- 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)
For Topping:
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)
- Dark chocolate shavings or grated chocolate (optional)
- Fresh mint leaves (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Coffee Mixture:
- In a shallow dish, combine 1/2 cup of strong brewed coffee with the coffee liqueur, if using. Set aside to cool completely.
2. Make the Mascarpone Pudding:
- In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
- In another bowl, combine the softened mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until well combined. Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream.
3. Assemble the Pudding Cups:
- Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture for about 2 seconds, ensuring they are soaked but not soggy.
- Place a layer of soaked ladyfingers at the bottom of each serving cup.
- Add a generous layer of the mascarpone pudding over the ladyfingers.
- Repeat the layers until the cups are filled, finishing with a layer of mascarpone pudding.
4. Chill:
- Cover the pudding cups with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best flavor.
5. Serve:
- Just before serving, dust the top of each pudding cup with unsweetened cocoa powder.
- Optionally, garnish with dark chocolate shavings or grated chocolate and a fresh mint leaf for a pop of color.
Tips:
- For a stronger coffee flavor, use espresso instead of brewed coffee.
- To make these pudding cups in advance, assemble them up to a day ahead and keep them refrigerated until ready to serve.
- Experiment with flavors by adding a splash of vanilla or almond extract to the mascarpone pudding for a unique twist.