Tiramisu Pudding Cups: An Elegant and Easy Dessert

Tiramisu Pudding Cups are a charming and convenient take on the classic Italian dessert. This recipe layers rich, coffee-flavored pudding with a mascarpone cream and is topped with cocoa powder, offering all the indulgent flavors of traditional tiramisu in a delightful, individual serving. Whether for a dinner party or a special treat, these pudding cups are sure to impress.

Ingredients

For the Coffee Pudding:

• 2 cups (480ml) whole milk
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (25g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 3 tablespoons instant coffee granules (or espresso powder)
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Mascarpone Cream:

• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 1/2 cup (120g) mascarpone cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Garnish:

• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder, for sprinkling (optional)
• Ladyfinger cookies (optional, for layering or garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Coffee Pudding:

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cocoa powder, instant coffee granules, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Add Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth.
3. Cook the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Continuously whisk the mixture until it starts to thicken and comes to a gentle boil. Continue cooking for 1-2 minutes after boiling, until the pudding is thick and smooth.
4. Add Vanilla: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Cool: Transfer the pudding to a bowl or individual cups, and cover with plastic wrap directly on the surface of the pudding to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to cool and set.

2. Prepare the Mascarpone Cream:

1. Whip the Cream: In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until it starts to thicken.
2. Add Mascarpone and Sugar: Add the mascarpone cheese and granulated sugar to the whipped cream. Continue to whip until the mixture forms stiff peaks.
3. Add Vanilla: Mix in the vanilla extract until well combined.

3. Assemble the Pudding Cups:

1. Layer the Pudding: If you’re using ladyfinger cookies, break them into pieces and place a layer of them in the bottom of each serving cup. Spoon a layer of the coffee pudding over the ladyfingers.
2. Add Mascarpone Cream: Top the pudding with a generous dollop of mascarpone cream.
3. Garnish: Sift a layer of cocoa powder over the mascarpone cream. You can also add chocolate shavings or a few extra pieces of ladyfinger for added texture and decoration.

4. Chill and Serve:

1. Chill: Refrigerate the assembled pudding cups for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the layers to set.
2. Serve: Enjoy these elegant tiramisu pudding cups chilled. They are perfect for a light, yet indulgent dessert.

Tips and Variations

• Alcoholic Twist: For an authentic tiramisu flavor, you can soak the ladyfinger cookies in a splash of coffee liqueur before layering them.
• Make-Ahead: These pudding cups can be prepared a day in advance, making them an ideal option for entertaining.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute dairy-free milk and a non-dairy cream alternative to make this dessert suitable for those with lactose intolerance or following a vegan diet.

Conclusion

Tiramisu Pudding Cups offer a delectable and convenient way to enjoy the rich, creamy flavors of traditional tiramisu. With layers of coffee pudding and mascarpone cream, topped with a dusting of cocoa powder, these individual servings are both visually appealing and delicious. Perfect for any occasion, these pudding cups are sure to be a hit with family and friends.

Feel free to adjust the recipe to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Enjoy your Tiramisu Pudding Cups!