Elegant Tiramisu Mini Shots

Featured in: Weekend Rustic Kitchen Favorites

These elegant mini shots showcase layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers combined with a smooth mascarpone and whipped cream blend. Quickly dipped and carefully layered in petite glasses, each bite delivers a harmonious balance of rich coffee notes and creamy texture. Finished with a dusting of cocoa powder and optional chocolate shavings, they are ideal for parties or special moments. Preparation is straightforward, requiring no baking, and the flavors deepen when chilled for a few hours. Optional variations include alcohol-free or caffeine-free versions, making this a versatile treat for varied tastes.

Updated on Wed, 10 Dec 2025 15:47:00 GMT
Count-down Tiramisu Shots ready to be served—sweet, rich, layered dessert in mini glasses. Save
Count-down Tiramisu Shots ready to be served—sweet, rich, layered dessert in mini glasses. | birchwhisk.com

Elegant bite-sized tiramisu served in mini glasses—perfect for parties or special occasions, featuring layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone, and a dusting of cocoa.

This recipe quickly became my favorite dessert for gatherings because everyone loves its rich coffee flavor and creamy texture.

Ingredients

  • Cream Layer: 250 g mascarpone cheese, 120 ml heavy cream, 50 g granulated sugar, 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • Coffee Mixture: 120 ml strong brewed espresso or coffee, cooled, 2 tbsp coffee liqueur (optional)
  • Assembly: 12-14 ladyfinger biscuits cut to fit shot glasses, unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting, dark chocolate shavings (optional)

Instructions

Step 1:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together mascarpone, sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
Step 2:
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until medium peaks form.
Step 3:
Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully combined.
Step 4:
In a shallow dish, combine espresso and coffee liqueur.
Step 5:
Quickly dip each ladyfinger piece into the coffee mixture (do not soak).
Step 6:
Place a dipped ladyfinger piece at the bottom of each shot glass.
Step 7:
Pipe or spoon a layer of mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers.
Step 8:
Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfinger and cream.
Step 9:
Smooth the tops and chill for at least 2 hours.
Step 10:
Before serving, dust with cocoa powder and garnish with chocolate shavings if desired.
Mini glasses hold beautifully layered Count-down Tiramisu Shots, perfect for an elegant after-dinner treat. Pin it
Mini glasses hold beautifully layered Count-down Tiramisu Shots, perfect for an elegant after-dinner treat. | birchwhisk.com

These tiramisu shots always bring smiles to my family's faces during special celebrations.

Required Tools

Mixing bowls, electric mixer or whisk, piping bag or spoon, shot glasses or mini dessert cups, fine mesh sieve for dusting cocoa

Allergen Information

Contains dairy (mascarpone, cream), eggs (in ladyfingers), and gluten (ladyfingers). Some brands of ladyfingers may contain soy. Always check ingredient labels for allergens.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 165, Total Fat: 10 g, Carbohydrates: 15 g, Protein: 3 g per serving

Close-up of decadent Count-down Tiramisu Shots, dusted with cocoa and perfect for a special gathering. Pin it
Close-up of decadent Count-down Tiramisu Shots, dusted with cocoa and perfect for a special gathering. | birchwhisk.com

Enjoy these elegant tiramisu shots chilled for the best flavor and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent ladyfingers from becoming soggy?

Dip ladyfingers briefly in the coffee mixture to avoid soaking and preserve their texture within the layers.

Can I prepare these shots in advance?

Yes, chilling for at least 2 hours enhances flavor, and they can be made up to 24 hours ahead for richer taste.

What can be used instead of coffee liqueur?

Simply omit the liqueur for an alcohol-free version, or use decaffeinated coffee to reduce caffeine.

How is the mascarpone layer made creamy?

Whip heavy cream to medium peaks and gently fold it into the mascarpone mixture for a light and smooth texture.

What garnishes work best on these mini shots?

Dusting with unsweetened cocoa powder and optional dark chocolate shavings add a rich finishing touch.

Elegant Tiramisu Mini Shots

Layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone create a perfect bite-sized dessert.

Prep Time
20 Minutes
0
Total Time
20 Minutes


Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: Italian

Yield: 12 servings

Dietary: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Cream Layer

01 8.8 oz mascarpone cheese
02 1/2 cup heavy cream
03 1/4 cup granulated sugar
04 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Coffee Mixture

01 1/2 cup strong brewed espresso or coffee, cooled
02 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)

Assembly

01 12 to 14 ladyfinger biscuits, trimmed to fit shot glasses
02 Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
03 Dark chocolate shavings (optional)

Instructions

Step 01

Prepare Cream Mixture: Whisk mascarpone cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl until smooth.

Step 02

Whip Heavy Cream: In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until medium peaks form.

Step 03

Combine Cream Layers: Gently fold whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully incorporated.

Step 04

Prepare Coffee Dipping Liquid: In a shallow dish, combine brewed espresso with optional coffee liqueur.

Step 05

Dip Ladyfingers: Briefly dip each ladyfinger piece into the coffee mixture, ensuring not to saturate them.

Step 06

Assemble Layers: Place a dipped ladyfinger at the bottom of each shot glass, then spoon or pipe a layer of mascarpone cream over it.

Step 07

Repeat Layering: Add another dipped ladyfinger layer followed by another mascarpone cream layer, smoothing the tops.

Step 08

Chill: Refrigerate the assembled shots for a minimum of 2 hours to set and meld flavors.

Step 09

Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, dust with unsweetened cocoa powder and optionally garnish with dark chocolate shavings.

Tools You'll Need

  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer or whisk
  • Piping bag or spoon
  • Shot glasses or mini dessert cups
  • Fine mesh sieve for dusting cocoa powder

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains dairy (mascarpone, cream), eggs (ladyfingers), gluten (ladyfingers), and possibly soy depending on ladyfinger brand.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 165
  • Total Fat: 10 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 15 g
  • Protein: 3 g