Countdown Tiramisu Shots

Featured in: Sweet Spots

These countdown tiramisu shots offer a delightful layering of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and smooth mascarpone cream in mini glasses. Perfect for gatherings, they combine espresso or coffee with creamy mascarpone and a dusting of cocoa powder to create a rich yet light dessert. Quick to assemble, the shots can be prepared ahead for infused flavors and garnished with chocolate shavings for an elegant touch. Ideal for vegetarian diets, these no-bake treats deliver impressive taste with minimal effort.

Updated on Wed, 10 Dec 2025 16:43:00 GMT
Countdown Tiramisu Shots in clear shot glasses, layered with creamy mascarpone and cocoa dusting. Save
Countdown Tiramisu Shots in clear shot glasses, layered with creamy mascarpone and cocoa dusting. | tastychuck.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 serving these tiramisu shots at gatherings because they combine classic flavors in a fun and elegant way.

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.
Individual Countdown Tiramisu Shots with coffee-soaked ladyfingers, a perfect Italian dessert. Save
Individual Countdown Tiramisu Shots with coffee-soaked ladyfingers, a perfect Italian dessert. | tastychuck.com

These tiramisu shots have become a favorite at family gatherings, bringing smiles and compliments every time.

Notes

For best flavor, make the tiramisu shots up to 24 hours in advance and keep chilled until serving.

Allergen Information

Contains dairy (mascarpone, cream), eggs and gluten in ladyfingers. Always check ingredient labels for allergens.

Nutritional Information

Per serving: 165 calories, 10 g total fat, 15 g carbohydrates, 3 g protein.

Close-up of ready-to-serve Countdown Tiramisu Shots dusted with cocoa, a decadent treat. Save
Close-up of ready-to-serve Countdown Tiramisu Shots dusted with cocoa, a decadent treat. | tastychuck.com

This recipe is a delightful way to enjoy tiramisu in a convenient, party-ready form.

Recipe Guide

What type of coffee works best for these tiramisu shots?

Strong brewed espresso or rich coffee provides the best flavor to soak the ladyfingers without overpowering the creamy layers.

Can I prepare these tiramisu shots in advance?

Yes, chilling them for at least 2 hours enhances the flavor, and they can be made up to 24 hours ahead for deeper infusion.

How do I assemble the tastiest layers?

Dip ladyfingers quickly into coffee mixture to avoid sogginess, then layer alternately with the mascarpone cream for balanced texture.

What can be used instead of coffee liqueur?

To keep them alcohol-free, simply omit the coffee liqueur or substitute with an equal amount of brewed coffee.

What garnishes enhance these servings?

A light dusting of unsweetened cocoa powder and optional dark chocolate shavings add both flavor and visual appeal.

Countdown Tiramisu Shots

Elegant bite-sized tiramisu in mini glasses with coffee-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone layers.

Prep duration
20 min
0
Full duration
20 min
Created by Chuck Harrison

Style Sweet Spots

Skill level Easy

Heritage Italian

Output 12 Portions

Nutrition Labels Meat-free

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 tsp pure vanilla extract

Coffee Mixture

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

Assembly

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

Method

Phase 01

Prepare mascarpone mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together mascarpone, sugar, and vanilla until smooth.

Phase 02

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

Phase 03

Combine cream and mascarpone: Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully combined.

Phase 04

Mix coffee base: In a shallow dish, combine espresso and coffee liqueur.

Phase 05

Dip ladyfingers: Quickly dip each ladyfinger piece into the coffee mixture without soaking.

Phase 06

Layer first ladyfinger: Place a dipped ladyfinger piece at the bottom of each shot glass.

Phase 07

Add mascarpone cream: Spoon or pipe a layer of mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers.

Phase 08

Repeat layering: Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfinger and mascarpone cream.

Phase 09

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

Phase 10

Garnish and serve: Before serving, dust with cocoa powder and optionally garnish with chocolate shavings.

Kitchen tools

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

Allergy alerts

Always review ingredients for potential allergens and seek professional medical guidance if unsure
  • Contains dairy, eggs, and gluten. Some ladyfingers may contain soy. Verify ingredient labels.

Nutrition breakdown (per portion)

Values shown are estimates only - consult healthcare providers for specific advice
  • Energy: 165
  • Fats: 10 g
  • Carbohydrates: 15 g
  • Proteins: 3 g