Indulge in the delightful layers of this Tiramisu Pudding Cups recipe, a simplified take on the classic Italian dessert. Creamy coffee-flavored pudding is layered with soft ladyfingers, rich mascarpone cheese, and a dusting of cocoa powder. These individual cups make for an elegant presentation and are perfect for parties, picnics, or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
For the Coffee Pudding:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon instant coffee granules
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
For the Mascarpone Layer:
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Assembly:
- 12-15 ladyfingers
- Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
- Dark chocolate shavings or coffee beans, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Make the Coffee Pudding:
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together the milk, sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and instant coffee granules.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat, whisking constantly until it thickens and starts to bubble (about 5-7 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and heavy cream until smooth.
- Pour the pudding into a bowl, cover with plastic wrap (pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent a skin), and refrigerate for at least 1 hour until cool.
- Prepare the Mascarpone Layer:
- In a mixing bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese until smooth.
- In another bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone cheese until fully combined.
- Assemble the Cups:
- Break the ladyfingers into halves or quarters, depending on the size of your cups.
- In individual serving cups or glasses, layer the ingredients as follows: a layer of coffee pudding, a layer of broken ladyfingers, and a layer of the mascarpone mixture.
- Repeat the layers until the cups are filled, finishing with a layer of mascarpone.
- Chill and Serve:
- Cover the cups with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.
- Before serving, dust the tops with unsweetened cocoa powder and garnish with dark chocolate shavings or coffee beans, if desired.