Deconstructed Tiramisu Shots (Print Version)

Elegant layers of espresso biscuits and mascarpone cream served in delicate shot glasses for parties.

# What You'll Need:

→ Espresso Biscuits

01 - 8 ladyfinger biscuits (savoiardi), broken into bite-sized pieces
02 - 1/2 cup freshly brewed espresso, cooled
03 - 2 tbsp coffee liqueur (e.g., Kahlúa or Tia Maria)

→ Mascarpone Cream

04 - 1 cup mascarpone cheese, room temperature
05 - 1/2 cup heavy cream, cold
06 - 1/4 cup powdered sugar
07 - 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

→ Assembly

08 - 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
09 - Dark chocolate shavings, optional for garnish

# How-To Steps:

01 - Combine espresso and coffee liqueur in a shallow bowl. Briefly dip each ladyfinger piece into the mixture without soaking, then set aside.
02 - In a medium bowl, whisk mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
03 - Whip cold heavy cream to soft peaks, then gently fold into the mascarpone mixture until fully combined and creamy.
04 - Place a layer of espresso-soaked ladyfinger pieces in the bottom of each shot glass.
05 - Spoon or pipe a layer of mascarpone cream over the biscuit layer in each glass.
06 - Add a second layer of soaked ladyfingers followed by another layer of mascarpone cream.
07 - Dust the tops with unsweetened cocoa powder and garnish with dark chocolate shavings if desired.
08 - Refrigerate the shots for at least 1 hour to enhance flavors before serving.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • They look fancy enough to impress but come together in twenty minutes flat.
  • Everyone gets their own perfectly portioned dessert, so no awkward slicing or plating drama.
  • You can make them ahead and chill, which means you actually get to enjoy your party instead of being stuck in the kitchen.
02 -
  • Don't skip the chilling time, no matter how impatient you feel, because the cold sets everything into the right texture and lets the espresso flavor sink through all the layers.
  • The mascarpone must be at room temperature before you start, otherwise you'll end up with an uneven, broken mess that no amount of folding can fix.
03 -
  • If you don't have a piping bag, a simple spoon works beautifully and gives the cream a more casual, honest look that actually feels more homemade.
  • Try this with different liqueurs like marsala or amaretto if you want to experiment, or use the same espresso mixture twice for a non-alcoholic version that's just as delicious.
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