Countdown Tiramisu Shots

Featured in: Sweet Treats

These countdown tiramisu shots offer a refined, bite-sized dessert experience featuring layers of coffee-dipped ladyfingers and a rich mascarpone cream. The no-bake preparation blends strong espresso and optional coffee liqueur to soak the ladyfingers just briefly, preserving texture. A smooth mascarpone mixture folded with whipped cream creates a luscious cream layer, topped with a dusting of cocoa powder. Ideal for entertaining, these chilled mini glasses bring classic Italian flavors in an elegant presentation with minimal effort.

Updated on Wed, 10 Dec 2025 13:13:00 GMT
Countdown Tiramisu Shots in clear shot glasses, layered with creamy mascarpone and cocoa dust, delicious Italian dessert. Save
Countdown Tiramisu Shots in clear shot glasses, layered with creamy mascarpone and cocoa dust, delicious Italian dessert. | cinnamonglow.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.

This recipe quickly became a favorite at my gatherings due to its easy assembly and impressive taste.

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.
Close-up of elegant Countdown Tiramisu Shots, featuring coffee-soaked ladyfingers and whipped cream layers, ready to enjoy. Save
Close-up of elegant Countdown Tiramisu Shots, featuring coffee-soaked ladyfingers and whipped cream layers, ready to enjoy. | cinnamonglow.com

This dessert is always a hit with my family during celebrations, sparking joy and sweet memories.

Required Tools

Mixing bowls, Electric mixer or whisk, Piping bag or spoon, Shot glasses or mini dessert cups, Fine mesh sieve (for dusting cocoa)

Allergen Information

Contains dairy (mascarpone, cream), eggs (in ladyfingers), and gluten (ladyfingers). Some brands of ladyfingers may contain soy. Always check ingredient labels for allergens.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 165, Total Fat: 10 g, Carbohydrates: 15 g, Protein: 3 g per serving

These bite-sized Countdown Tiramisu Shots offer a decadent taste, with a dusting of cocoa and rich Italian flavors. Save
These bite-sized Countdown Tiramisu Shots offer a decadent taste, with a dusting of cocoa and rich Italian flavors. | cinnamonglow.com

Enjoy these elegant tiramisu shots chilled for a refreshing and indulgent treat.

Recipe FAQ Section

How long should ladyfingers be dipped in coffee?

Dip ladyfingers quickly to moisten without soaking, preserving their texture and preventing sogginess.

Can I use decaf coffee for the coffee layer?

Yes, decaf brewed espresso or coffee works well to keep the flavor without caffeine.

What is the best way to achieve smooth mascarpone cream?

Whisk mascarpone with sugar and vanilla until smooth, then gently fold in whipped cream for a light texture.

Can the shots be prepared ahead of time?

They can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and chilled to allow flavors to meld perfectly.

What alternatives exist for coffee liqueur?

Omit coffee liqueur for an alcohol-free version or substitute with a coffee extract for extra flavor.

Countdown Tiramisu Shots

Elegant layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cream in mini glasses, perfect for gatherings.

Prep duration
20 min
0
Complete duration
20 min
Created by Hannah Collins

Classification Sweet Treats

Skill level Easy

Cultural Origin Italian

Output 12 Portion count

Dietary considerations Meat-free

Components

Cream Layer

01 8.8 oz mascarpone cheese
02 1/2 cup heavy cream
03 1/4 cup granulated sugar
04 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Coffee Mixture

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

Assembly

01 12 to 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: Whisk together mascarpone, sugar, and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl until smooth.

Phase 02

Whip cream: Whip the heavy cream in a separate bowl until medium peaks form.

Phase 03

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

Phase 04

Mix coffee and liqueur: Combine espresso and coffee liqueur in a shallow dish.

Phase 05

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

Phase 06

Layer ladyfingers: Place one dipped ladyfinger piece at the bottom of each shot glass.

Phase 07

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

Phase 08

Repeat layering: Add another layer of dipped ladyfinger and mascarpone cream on top.

Phase 09

Chill: Smooth the tops and refrigerate for at least two hours to set.

Phase 10

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

Tools needed

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

Allergy details

Review each component for potential allergens and consult with a healthcare professional if you're uncertain about any ingredients.
  • Contains dairy, eggs, gluten, and may contain soy depending on ladyfinger brand.

Nutritional breakdown (per portion)

These values are provided as estimates only and shouldn't replace professional medical guidance.
  • Energy: 165
  • Fats: 10 g
  • Carbohydrates: 15 g
  • Protein Content: 3 g