Layered Coffee Ice Cream Tiramisu Parfait Cups

Tiramisu, Italian for "pick me up," traditionally pairs espresso-soaked ladyfingers with airy mascarpone. These parfait cups fold in coffee ice cream for a no-cook twist, layered with cocoa and dark chocolate shavings.

Serves 4 · 20 min prep

Estimate for one serving

• 485 cal
• 8g protein
• 42g carbs
• 32g fat

Every recipe here is free to read.

Ingredients

• 1 pint coffee ice cream
• 8 oz mascarpone cheese
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 3 tbsp powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup strong brewed espresso
• 2 tbsp coffee liqueur
• 12 ladyfinger cookies
• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup dark chocolate shavings

Instructions

1. 1Chill four clear glass cups or small jars in the freezer for 10 minutes so the layers stay firm and distinct. Soften the coffee ice cream on the counter just until scoopable but not melting, about 5 minutes.
2. 2In a medium bowl, beat the mascarpone with the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until thick, smooth, and holding soft peaks; stop as soon as it looks glossy so it does not turn grainy.
3. 3Stir the cooled espresso together with the coffee liqueur in a shallow dish. Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the mixture for 1–2 seconds per side so they soften without falling apart.
4. 4Break or cut the soaked ladyfingers to fit the bottoms of the chilled cups, pressing them gently into an even base layer.
5. 5Scoop a generous layer of the softened coffee ice cream over the ladyfingers in each cup, smoothing the top with the back of a spoon.
6. 6Pipe or spoon a thick layer of the mascarpone cream over the ice cream, spreading it to the edges so every bite gets both flavors.
7. 7Repeat the layers once more if cup height allows, ending with a final swirl of mascarpone cream on top. Dust the tops generously with cocoa powder through a fine sieve.
8. 8Scatter dark chocolate shavings over the cocoa for crunch and visual contrast. Return the parfaits to the freezer for 15–20 minutes so the ice cream firms back up before serving.
9. 9Serve immediately with long spoons so guests can dig through every coffee-forward layer. The parfaits hold well covered in the freezer for up to 2 days if you want to prep ahead.