Tiramisu Pudding Cups

Description:

These no-bake Tiramisu Pudding Cups are a quick and easy version of the traditional tiramisu. Made with layers of creamy mascarpone-flavored pudding, coffee-soaked ladyfingers (or sponge cake), and a dusting of cocoa powder, they offer all the classic flavors in a convenient cup-sized treat. Perfect for parties, date nights, or when you’re craving a little indulgence without the fuss.

✅ Ingredients:

• 1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix

• 1½ cups cold milk

• ½ cup heavy whipping cream

• 4 oz mascarpone cheese (or cream cheese as a substitute)

• 2 tbsp powdered sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 cup strong brewed coffee or espresso (cooled)

• 2 tbsp coffee liqueur (optional, like Kahlua)

• 12–16 ladyfingers or slices of sponge cake

• Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting

• Mini chocolate chips or shavings (optional)

• Small dessert cups or glasses

👩‍🍳 Instructions:

1. Make the Pudding Layer:
   Whisk together the instant pudding mix and cold milk in a bowl for 2 minutes until thickened.
   In a separate bowl, beat the mascarpone, powdered sugar, vanilla, and heavy cream until smooth and fluffy. Fold this into the pudding mixture.

2. Prepare the Coffee Soak:
   Combine the brewed coffee and coffee liqueur (if using) in a shallow bowl.

3. Assemble the Cups:

   • Dip each ladyfinger briefly into the coffee mixture (don’t soak too long).

   • Place a layer of soaked ladyfingers at the bottom of each cup.

   • Add a layer of pudding mixture over the ladyfingers.

   • Repeat layers if cups are tall enough.

   • Finish with a smooth layer of the pudding mixture on top.

4. Chill:
   Refrigerate the cups for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.

5. Top and Serve:
   Before serving, dust generously with cocoa powder. Garnish with chocolate chips or shavings if desired.

📝 Notes:

• Mascarpone gives authentic tiramisu flavor, but cream cheese can work in a pinch.

• You can use chocolate pudding for a twist or add espresso powder to enhance the coffee flavor.

• Use gluten-free ladyfingers for a gluten-free version.

💡 Tips:

• Do not soak ladyfingers too long—they’ll get soggy.

• Make these a day in advance for richer flavor.

• Use piping bags for neat pudding layers in clear cups.

🍽️ Servings:

Makes 6 to 8 individual cups depending on size.

🔍 Nutritional Info (per serving, est.):

• Calories: 280

• Fat: 14g

• Carbs: 30g

• Protein: 4g

• Sugar: 18g

• Fiber: 1g

(Values may vary depending on ingredients used)

🌟 Benefits:

• Quick, no-bake dessert.

• Perfect for portion control and party servings.

• Customizable (add fruit, liqueur, or chocolate variations).

• Easier than traditional tiramisu but with the same rich taste.

❓ Q&A:

Q: Can I make it without coffee?
A: Yes! Use chocolate milk or a coffee-flavored syrup without caffeine for a kid-friendly version.

Q: How long do these last in the fridge?
A: Up to 3 days, covered. Best flavor on day 2.

Q: Can I freeze them?
A: Not recommended—the pudding texture may become grainy once thawed.

Q: What can I substitute for ladyfingers?
A: Try sponge cake, pound cake, or graham crackers (but adjust soaking time).