Tiramisu Pudding Cups are a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert. These individual servings are made with layers of creamy, coffee-flavored pudding, delicate ladyfingers, and a dusting of cocoa powder. They’re a quick and easy alternative to traditional tiramisu, without the need for baking or mascarpone cheese.
Ingredients:
- For the Coffee Pudding:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp instant coffee or espresso powder (dissolved in 2 tbsp hot water)
- For the Layers:
- 12-14 ladyfingers (depending on the size of the cups)
- 2 tbsp coffee liqueur (optional)
- For the Topping:
- Unsweetened cocoa powder
- Chocolate shavings or grated chocolate (optional)
Instructions:
- Make the Coffee Pudding:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Whisk together over medium heat until the mixture starts to thicken and boil (about 5-7 minutes).
- Once thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and dissolved coffee.
- Allow the pudding to cool for a few minutes, then transfer to a bowl or a container to set, covering the surface with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming. Let it cool completely.
- Prepare the Ladyfingers:
- If using, lightly brush the ladyfingers with the coffee liqueur or dip them briefly in strong coffee. The ladyfingers should be moist but not soggy.
- Assemble the Cups:
- Break the ladyfingers into pieces so they fit into the bottom of your individual serving cups.
- Spoon a layer of the cooled coffee pudding over the ladyfingers.
- Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of pudding.
- Chill and Garnish:
- Chill the assembled tiramisu cups in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours, or overnight if possible, to allow the flavors to meld.
- Before serving, dust the top of each pudding cup with cocoa powder and optionally sprinkle with chocolate shavings.
- Serve and Enjoy!
These Tiramisu Pudding Cups are perfect for parties, gatherings, or any time you want a quick, delicious dessert with all the flavor of tiramisu but without the complexity.