Mini Matcha Tiramisu Cup

Are you a fan of classic tiramisu but looking to add a twist to this beloved Italian dessert? Look no further! Introducing the Matcha Tiramisu in a Cup, a delightful fusion of Italian and Japanese flavours that will take your taste buds on a delightful journey.

The Power of Matcha

Matcha, a finely ground green tea powder, has been celebrated for centuries in Japanese culture for its numerous health benefits and rich, earthy flavour. Incorporating matcha into your tiramisu not only enhances the taste but also provides several health advantages:

1. Rich in Antioxidants: Matcha is packed with powerful antioxidants, especially catechins, which help combat free radicals and promote overall well-being.
2. Calm Focus: Matcha contains L-theanine, an amino acid known for its calming effects. It can induce a state of relaxed alertness, perfect for enjoying your dessert without any jittery feelings.
3. Boosts Metabolism: The combination of caffeine and catechins in matcha can help speed up your metabolism and aid in weight management.
4. Detoxifying: Green tea, including matcha, has been associated with supporting liver function and assisting the body in its natural detoxification processes.
5. Improved Brain Function: Some studies suggest that matcha’s components may have positive effects on cognitive function and memory.

How to make this Mini Matcha Tiramisu?

To make the scrumptious Matcha Tiramisu in a Cup, begin by whipping together 1 cup of heavy cream and 1/4 cup of powdered sugar in a medium-sized mixing bowl until soft peaks form. In another bowl, whisk 1 cup of mascarpone cheese, 1 tablespoon of culinary-grade matcha powder, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until the mixture becomes smooth and well combined. Gently fold the whipped cream into the matcha mascarpone mixture, ensuring a light and fluffy texture. If desired, add a splash of matcha liqueur or green tea liqueur over the ladyfingers or sponge cake to infuse extra flavour.

Next, layer the bottom of your cups with ladyfingers or sponge cake pieces, breaking them to fit if needed. Spoon a layer of the matcha mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers, using a spatula to spread it evenly. Continue alternating layers of ladyfingers and the matcha mascarpone cream until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a final layer of the cream on top.

Cover the cups with plastic wrap or lids and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavours to meld and develop the perfect texture. Just before serving, add a finishing touch by dusting the top of each cup with a little matcha powder.

Alternative for Mini Tiramisu

Now, let’s talk about some alternative options for the Matcha Tiramisu in case you want to experiment with flavours:

• Chocolate Tiramisu: For all the chocoholics out there, you can swap matcha with cocoa powder to create a decadent Chocolate Tiramisu. It’s a perfect treat for those who prefer a rich and intense chocolate flavour
• Berrylicious Tiramisu: To add a fruity twist, try using fresh berries like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries. The tartness of the berries complements the sweetness of the tiramisu, making it a delightful summer dessert.
• Hazelnut Tiramisu: Nutty flavours lovers can use crushed hazelnuts or hazelnut liqueur to add a distinct taste to their tiramisu. This variation provides a delightful nutty crunch to each spoonful.
• Coconut Tiramisu: Coconut enthusiasts can infuse their tiramisu with coconut milk or shredded coconut to bring in a tropical flavour profile. It’s a refreshing alternative, especially during warm weather.

Now, savour the delightful fusion of Italian and Japanese flavours in this Matcha Tiramisu, relishing the earthy richness of matcha and the creamy indulgence of mascarpone. The contrast of sweet and bitter notes, along with the velvety texture, will undoubtedly please your taste buds and leave you wanting more. Enjoy your exquisite Matcha Tiramisu in a Cup!

xoxo, Joe

Mini Matcha Tiramisu Cup

Ingredients

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/4 cup powdered sugar

• 1 cup mascarpone cheese

• 1 tablespoon matcha powder (culinary-grade)

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/2 cup strong brewed matcha tea (cooled)

• 1 tablespoon matcha powder (for dusting)

• Ladyfingers (sponge fingers) or sponge cake, enough to line the bottom of your cups

• Optional: a splash of matcha liqueur or green tea liqueur

Methods

• In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar together until soft peaks form.
• In a separate bowl, whisk the mascarpone cheese, matcha powder, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
• Gently fold the whipped cream into the matcha mascarpone mixture until fully incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to maintain a light and fluffy texture.
• If you’re using matcha liqueur or green tea liqueur, you can drizzle a splash of it over the ladyfingers or sponge cake to add extra flavour.
• In each cup or serving glass, place a layer of ladyfingers or sponge cake at the bottom. You can break them into pieces to fit if necessary.
• Spoon a layer of the matcha mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers, smoothing it out with a spatula or the back of a spoon.
• Repeat the layers until you’ve used up all the ingredients, finishing with a layer of matcha mascarpone cream on top.
• Cover the cups with plastic wrap or lids and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together and results in a perfect texture.
• Just before serving, dust the top of each cup with a little matcha powder for a beautiful finishing touch.
• Enjoy your delightful Matcha Tiramisu in a Cup!