Craving a decadent dessert but short on time? These Tiramisu Dessert Shooters are the perfect solution! They're incredibly easy to make, require no baking, and deliver all the rich coffee and creamy mascarpone goodness of classic tiramisu in adorable, individual servings. Perfect for parties, a romantic night in, or a simple yet impressive weeknight treat, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Get ready to indulge!
Ingredients:
- 12 ladyfingers
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
- 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional, but adds a nice kick!)
- 16 ounces mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs, separated
- Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Coffee Mixture
In a shallow dish, combine the cooled strong brewed coffee and coffee liqueur (if using). This mixture will be used to soak the ladyfingers.
Step 2: Whip the Mascarpone Cream
In a large bowl, beat the softened mascarpone cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy. This is easiest with an electric mixer. Beat in the vanilla extract.
Step 3: Incorporate the Egg Yolks
Gently whisk in the egg yolks, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 4: Whip the Egg Whites
In a separate clean bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. This is crucial for a light and airy texture.
Step 5: Fold in the Egg Whites
Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the mascarpone mixture in three additions, being careful not to deflate the egg whites. A spatula is ideal for this step.
Step 6: Assemble the Shooters
Dip each ladyfinger briefly into the coffee mixture, ensuring it's soaked but not soggy. Place one soaked ladyfinger at the bottom of each serving glass or shot glass.
Step 7: Layer the Cream
Top the ladyfinger with a generous spoonful of the mascarpone cream. Repeat layering with soaked ladyfingers and cream until the glasses are almost full.
Step 8: Dust with Cocoa Powder
Dust the top of each shooter generously with unsweetened cocoa powder.
Step 9: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the Tiramisu shooters for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Tiramisu Shooters:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the taste!
- Don't over-soak the ladyfingers: They should be moist but not falling apart.
- Gently fold the egg whites: Overmixing will deflate them and make the cream heavy.
- Chill thoroughly: Chilling allows the flavors to develop and the dessert to set properly.
Variations:
- Chocolate Tiramisu Shooters: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the mascarpone mixture for a richer chocolate flavor.
- Espresso Tiramisu Shooters: Use freshly brewed espresso instead of regular coffee for an extra intense coffee flavor.
- Amaretto Tiramisu Shooters: Substitute amaretto liqueur for coffee liqueur.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Protein: 5-7g
These are approximate values and may vary based on the specific ingredients used. Enjoy your delicious and easy Tiramisu Dessert Shooters! They're the perfect sweet ending to any meal or occasion.