Countdown Tiramisu Shots

Featured in: Simple Sweet Treats

These countdown tiramisu shots offer a perfect balance of flavors and textures in a compact form. Layers of coffee-dipped ladyfingers alternate with creamy mascarpone whipped to silky perfection. The dessert requires no baking, only assembly and chilling, making it an effortless yet refined treat. Dust each shot with cocoa powder or dark chocolate shavings for a final touch. Ideal for gatherings, the shots can be prepared in advance to allow flavors to meld beautifully.

Using strong espresso and optional coffee liqueur enriches the coffee notes while the vanilla sweetness complements the mascarpone mixture. This dessert maintains its elegant presentation through mini glass servings, inviting guests to enjoy a sophisticated bite-sized indulgence without fuss.

Updated on Wed, 10 Dec 2025 08:27:00 GMT
Countdown Tiramisu Shots in individual glasses, layered with creamy mascarpone and cocoa dusting, beautifully presented. Save to Pinterest
Countdown Tiramisu Shots in individual glasses, layered with creamy mascarpone and cocoa dusting, beautifully presented. | nibbro.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.

I love making these tiramisu shots for gatherings because they're small but flavorful treats everyone enjoys.

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.
These decadent Countdown Tiramisu Shots feature coffee-soaked ladyfingers and smooth mascarpone cream, perfect for dessert. Save to Pinterest
These decadent Countdown Tiramisu Shots feature coffee-soaked ladyfingers and smooth mascarpone cream, perfect for dessert. | nibbro.com

My family always gathers around for these tiramisu shots during holidays—they're a real crowd-pleaser.

Notes

Can be made up to 24 hours in advance for deeper flavor.

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.

Mini Countdown Tiramisu Shots offer lovely Italian flavors, with each glass showcasing coffee-kissed ladyfingers and creamy layers. Save to Pinterest
Mini Countdown Tiramisu Shots offer lovely Italian flavors, with each glass showcasing coffee-kissed ladyfingers and creamy layers. | nibbro.com

Enjoy these easy-to-make tiramisu shots chilled for a refreshing dessert experience.

Recipe FAQs

How do I prevent ladyfingers from getting soggy?

Quickly dip the ladyfingers into the coffee mixture without soaking them. This keeps them moist but firm enough to hold layers.

Can I make these shots ahead of time?

Yes, preparing them up to 24 hours in advance enhances the flavor as the layers meld together when chilled.

What can I use instead of coffee liqueur?

If avoiding alcohol, simply omit the coffee liqueur and use cooled strong espresso or decaf coffee for similar taste.

How can I get a smooth mascarpone cream?

Whisk mascarpone, sugar, and vanilla until smooth before folding in whipped cream gently for a light, airy texture.

What are suitable garnishes for these tiramisu shots?

Dust with unsweetened cocoa powder or sprinkle dark chocolate shavings to add contrast and enhance presentation.

Countdown Tiramisu Shots

Elegant mini tiramisu cups layering coffee-soaked biscuits and creamy mascarpone, topped with cocoa powder.

Prep Time
20 minutes
0
Total Duration
20 minutes
Created by Evan Brooks


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Italian

Makes 12 Portions

Diet Preferences Meatless

What You'll Need

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, cut to fit shot glasses
02 Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
03 Dark chocolate shavings (optional)

How-To Steps

Step 01

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

Step 02

Whip Cream: In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream to medium peaks.

Step 03

Combine Creams: Gently fold whipped cream into mascarpone mixture until fully incorporated.

Step 04

Mix Coffee: Combine espresso and coffee liqueur in a shallow dish.

Step 05

Dip Ladyfingers: Briefly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture without soaking.

Step 06

First Layer Assembly: Place dipped ladyfinger at the bottom of each shot glass.

Step 07

Add Cream Layer: Spoon or pipe mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers.

Step 08

Repeat Layers: Add another dipped ladyfinger followed by mascarpone cream layer.

Step 09

Chill: Smooth the top layers and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.

Step 10

Garnish: Before serving, dust with cocoa powder and optionally garnish with 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

Allergy Info

For allergen concerns, review each food item and check with your healthcare provider.
  • Contains dairy, eggs, gluten; some ladyfingers may contain soy.

Nutrition Details (per portion)

Nutritional values are for reference and aren't a substitute for professional health guidance.
  • Kcal: 165
  • Fats: 10 g
  • Carbohydrates: 15 g
  • Proteins: 3 g