Classic Tiramisu in Glasses
Layered Italian dessert featuring espresso-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cream, served elegantly in individual glasses. This italian-inspired desserts ready in about 20 minutes layers espresso, cooled, ladyfinger biscuits, mascarpone cheese into a dessert worth slowing down for — great for weekend baking, holiday tables, or any time you want a sweet payoff at the end of a meal. Each serving lands at about 350 calories and feeds 6, so it slots into a weekend bake or a special-occasion dessert tray. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 1 cup espresso, cooled
- 24 pieces ladyfinger biscuits
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
Instructions
- Step 1: Brew 1 cup espresso and let it cool to room temperature.
- Step 2: In a mixing bowl, whip 1 cup heavy cream with 1/4 cup granulated sugar until stiff peaks form, then gently fold in 8 oz mascarpone cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Step 3: Quickly dip each of the 24 ladyfinger biscuits into the cooled espresso, soaking only briefly to avoid sogginess.
- Step 4: Arrange a single layer of soaked ladyfingers at the bottom of 6 serving glasses.
- Step 5: Spoon a generous layer of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers, about 2-3 tablespoons per glass.
- Step 6: Repeat layering with another layer of soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cream.
- Step 7: Dust the top of each glass with 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder using a fine sieve.
- Step 8: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to let flavors meld.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Classic Tiramisu in Glasses take to make?
Total time is about 20 minutes (20 min prep + 0 min cook). Most home bakers find this fits a weekend afternoon; chill or store as the recipe directs before serving.
How do I store leftover Classic Tiramisu in Glasses?
Cool fully before storing. Most baked desserts keep at room temperature in an airtight container for 2–3 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Cream- or custard-based desserts must go in the fridge within 2 hours; reheat gently or serve cold per the recipe.
Can I substitute ingredients in Classic Tiramisu in Glasses?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Classic Tiramisu in Glasses for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 6 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 6). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
What goes well with Classic Tiramisu in Glasses?
Italian desserts like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.
