If you love the taste of the classic Italian dessert tiramisu, but don’t want to make an entire pan of it, then I have good news for you! This tiramisu mug cake is the perfect single serving size, and you only need a microwave to make it. It’s creamy, decadent, and so delicious!
I love a good tiramisu, but it’s one of those dishes that I don’t go through the hassle of making unless I’m having company. Sometimes, though, I want to have the ability to enjoy it just for myself, with all that extra work.
Enter the tiramisu mug cake, which is the perfect single serving portion (or make two mugs for date night, it’s that easy)! The cake replaces traditional lady fingers in this recipe, and then it’s loaded with sweet mascarpone and coffee flavors for the ultimate bite!
Best of all, it “bakes” in the microwave in just about a minute, for a dessert that’s stress free.
Tiramisu cake is the perfect accompaniment to your favorite Italian meal, for New Year’s to help you stay awake, for date night or Valentine’s Day, or any cool winter night. You can even make multiple mugs for easy entertaining!
Ingredients List
¼ cup all purpose flour
2 Tbsp granulated sugar
½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp espresso powder (or instant coffee)
⅛ tsp salt
½ tsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp butter, melted
3 Tbsp milk (I use 2%)
Coffee Mixture:
1 Tbsp amaretto liquor (use hot water if you want it non-alcoholic)
½ tsp espresso powder
Topping:
¼ cup mascarpone cheese (softened)
1 Tbsp powdered confectioner’s sugar
½ tsp cocoa powder
Ingredient Tips and Substitutions
You can use cake flour instead of all purpose flour, or use a baking mix base in place of the flour and the baking powder
The butter can be swapped for oil if preferred
Either espresso powder or instant coffee works (I just prefer espresso for the flavor here)
You can use whipped cream instead of mascarpone for the topping if you want (it’s just not as traditional)
Step By Step Instructions
In a microwave safe mug mix your dry ingredients first, then add the wet and stir until just combined (do not overmix). Make sure to scrape the sides down and smooth the batter
Cook in the microwave on high for 1 minute. Add additional time in 15-second increments as needed, until center is just set (it will be a little shiny still)
Combine the amaretto liquor with ½ tsp of espresso powder and pour over the still-warm cake (try to distribute well for best results)
Mix the mascarpone and powdered sugar together in a bowl, then top the mug cake with the mixture (smooth with a knife or spatula)
Dust tops with cocoa powder (use a paper towel underneath to catch excess for easy cleanup)
What Ingredients Are Typically Used in a Tiramisu Mug Cake?
The ingredients often include flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, milk, oil or butter, vanilla extract, and coffee or espresso for the classic tiramisu flavor.
Some recipes incorporate mascarpone cheese and liquor for a more authentic style.
Can I Make a Tiramisu Mug Cake Without Coffee?
Yes, you can substitute cocoa powder for instant coffee, or use hot water or milk in place of liquid coffee or espresso.
However, keep in mind that the coffee flavor contributes significantly to the authentic taste of tiramisu.
How Long Does It Take to Cook a Tiramisu Mug Cake in a Microwave?
Typically, it takes about 1-2 minutes, depending on your microwave’s wattage. Start with 1 minute and then continue in 30 second intervals until the cake is fully cooked.
Overcooking may result in a dry texture.
Can I Use Gluten-Free Flour in a Tiramisu Mug Cake?
Yes, you can replace regular flour with gluten-free flour such as almond or oat flour. Ensure it’s a measure-for-measure substitute to maintain the cake’s consistency.
Note that the texture does tend to change slightly with gluten free flour, but it will still be delicious.
Can I Prepare Tiramisu Mug Cake in Advance?
Mug cakes are best enjoyed fresh and warm right after preparation. However, you can prepare the mugs of cake in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours.
Add the mascarpone topping and dust with cocoa powder just before serving.
What Toppings or Garnishes Complement a Tiramisu Mug Cake?
Popular toppings include a dusting of cocoa powder, a dollop of whipped cream or mascarpone cheese, chocolate shavings, or even a drizzle of coffee-flavored syrup for an added touch of tiramisu flavor.
Make sure to serve with a spoon!
Recipe Pro Tips
To make multiple mugs for entertaining, cook the cakes (one at a time is best) and add the amaretto soak, then store them in the fridge for up to 48 hours. Top with mascarpone and cocoa powder just before serving!
Do not microwave your mascarpone to soften it! This will make it separate and turn into soup. Just let it soften at room temperature for a few minutes and you’ll be good to go!
My mugs are 6 ounces in size. I wouldn’t go smaller, but larger is totally fine (just expect to have extra space at the top)
I have a 1000W microwave and my cake was perfect after 1 minute. However, your times may vary based on microwave wattage, and mug size and type. If you overcook it slightly, don’t panic – the liquid you pour over after will help in this recipe
This tiramisu mug cake is the perfect single serving microwave dessert, though you can always make multiple mugs or share if you’re feeling generous! A 1-minute cake replaces the soaked ladyfingers of the traditional Italian dessert for a super easy alternative option.
Flavors of coffee, creamy sweet mascarpone, cocoa powder, and a spongy cake make for the perfect treat. This mug cake is perfect for the holidays, New Year’s, Valentine’s Day, or any night you’d like to enjoy a special treat.
Since tiramisu is normally labor-intensive and makes a giant pan, this is a great alternative if you’re only cooking for yourself or a small group. Is it authentic? Well, no. But, it only takes a few minutes to prepare and is delicious, so I think it’s a perfect compromise.
Easy Tiramisu Mug Cake
This easy tiramisu mug cake is perfect for 1-2 people. Skip the tedious preparation and make this version in your microwave in under 10 minutes!
1Tbspamaretto liquor(use hot water for a non-alcoholic option)
½Tspespresso powder
For the Topping
¼Cupmascarpone cheese(room temperature)
1Tbsppowdered confectioner's sugar
½Tspcocoa powder
Instructions
In a microwave safe mug mix your dry ingredients first, then add the wet and stir until just combined (do not overmix). Make sure to scrape the sides down and smooth the batter for even cooking
¼ Cup all purpose flour, 2 Tbsp granulated sugar, ½ Tsp baking powder, ½ Tsp espresso powder, ⅛ Tsp salt, ½ Tsp vanilla extract, 1 Tbsp butter, 3 Tbsp milk
Cook in the microwave on high for 1 minute. Add additional time in 15-second increments as needed, until center is just set (it will be a little shiny still)
Combine the amaretto liquor with ½ tsp of espresso powder and pour over the still-warm cake (try to distribute well for best results)
1 Tbsp amaretto liquor, ½ Tsp espresso powder
Mix the mascarpone and powdered sugar together in a bowl, then top the mug cake with the mixture (smooth with a knife or spatula)
¼ Cup mascarpone cheese, 1 Tbsp powdered confectioner's sugar
Dust tops with cocoa powder (use a paper towel underneath to catch excess for easy cleanup)
½ Tsp cocoa powder
Enjoy immediately
Notes
You can use cake flour instead of all purpose flour, or use a baking mix base in place of the flour and the baking powder
The butter can be swapped for oil if preferred
Either espresso powder or instant coffee works (I just prefer espresso for the flavor here)
You can use whipped cream instead of mascarpone for the topping if you want (it’s just not as traditional)
To make multiple mugs for entertaining, cook the cakes (one at a time is best) and add the amaretto soak, then store them in the fridge for up to 48 hours. Top with mascarpone and cocoa powder just before serving!
Do not microwave your mascarpone to soften it! This will make it separate and turn into soup. Just let it soften at room temperature for a few minutes instead
My mugs are 6 ounces in size. I wouldn’t go smaller, but larger is totally fine (just expect to have extra space at the top)
I have a 1000W microwave and my cake was perfect after 1 minute. However, your times may vary based on microwave wattage, and mug size and type. If you overcook it slightly, don’t panic – the liquid you pour over after will help in this recipe
Exact nutritional values will vary based on brand and flavor of ingredients, any toppings or garnishes added, and quantity consumed, so please consider this a guideline only
I enjoy trying new recipes, creating my own, and dabbling with new techniques all the time. My husband loves to protest when I make him my guinea pig, but it’s all for the love of food!
My cooking philosophy is that great tasting food doesn't have to be complicated or time consuming to make. I'm a home cook with over 20 years of experience feeding myself and others. I've learned from a variety of different people, things I've learned online, and some trial and error as well.
I enjoy cooking a variety of foods, from convenience to comfort foods, as well as international cuisine. You can rest assured that all of my recipes have been actually made, thoroughly tested, and most importantly: tasted! I want you to enjoy my food as much as I do!
