Countdown Tiramisu Shots

Featured in: Vegetarian & Plant-Based Grill

Experience an elegant layering of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone in these bite-sized delights. Perfectly portioned in mini glasses, each serving combines the rich flavor of espresso with smooth cream and a dusting of cocoa powder. Quick to prepare and ideal for entertaining, these treats offer a refined texture and indulgent taste without baking.

With easy assembly steps and options for alcohol-free versions, the dessert suits various tastes. Chill time enhances flavors, resulting in a sophisticated yet simple dessert that elevates any occasion.

Updated on Wed, 10 Dec 2025 14:52:00 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. | bitegrill.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 is a delightful treat I often bring to gatherings, and it never fails to impress guests with its rich flavor and elegant presentation.

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.
Bite-sized Countdown Tiramisu Shots with coffee-soaked ladyfingers and whipped cream, ready to serve. Save
Bite-sized Countdown Tiramisu Shots with coffee-soaked ladyfingers and whipped cream, ready to serve. | bitegrill.com

This recipe has been a family favorite during celebrations bringing everyone together with smiles and sweet moments.

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 (per serving)

Calories 165, Total Fat 10 g, Carbohydrates 15 g, Protein 3 g

Dusting of cocoa on chilled Countdown Tiramisu Shots offers a delicious Italian dessert experience. Save
Dusting of cocoa on chilled Countdown Tiramisu Shots offers a delicious Italian dessert experience. | bitegrill.com

Perfect for quick preparation and elegant serving these tiramisu shots impress with minimal effort.

Recipe FAQ

What type of coffee is best for soaking ladyfingers?

Strong brewed espresso provides the richest coffee flavor, but cooled strong coffee also works well. Avoid soaking too long to keep ladyfingers crisp.

Can I prepare these tiramisu shots in advance?

Yes, they can be made up to 24 hours ahead to allow flavors to meld, enhancing the richness and texture.

Is it possible to omit alcohol from this dessert?

Definitely. Simply skip the coffee liqueur for an alcohol-free version without compromising flavor.

How do I ensure the mascarpone cream is smooth and fluffy?

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

What is the best way to garnish these mini tiramisu shots?

Dusting with unsweetened cocoa powder adds balance, and optional dark chocolate shavings enhance the presentation and flavor.

Countdown Tiramisu Shots

Bite-sized tiramisu with coffee-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cream, and a dusting of cocoa.

Prep duration
20 min
0
Complete duration
20 min
Created by Ethan Walker


Skill Level Easy

Heritage Italian

Output 12 Portions

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

Phase 02

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

Phase 03

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

Phase 04

Mix coffee and liqueur: 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 base: Place a 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 layers: Add another dipped ladyfinger layer followed by mascarpone cream.

Phase 09

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

Phase 10

Garnish and serve: Dust with cocoa powder and optionally garnish with chocolate shavings before serving.

Tools needed

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

Allergy details

Review each ingredient for potential allergens and consult with healthcare providers if you're uncertain about sensitivities.
  • Contains dairy (mascarpone, cream), eggs and gluten (ladyfingers); may contain soy depending on brand.

Nutritional information (each portion)

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