Why This Mini Tiramisu Works
There’s nothing quite like ending a campfire evening with something sweet. This mini tiramisu recipe is creamy, coffee-kissed, and ready to pull straight from the cooler when the stars are out.
Instead of juggling a big pan, these individual mason jars make dessert portable, pre-portioned, and perfectly indulgent.
At home, they double as an elegant dinner-party dessert. At the campsite, they’re the kind of late-night treat you’ll be glad you packed ahead.
Ingredients for Mini Tiramisu [2 Servings]
- 4 oz (115 g) mascarpone cheese (about half a container)
- ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream
- 2 tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)
- 6–7 ladyfingers
- ⅜ cup (90 ml) strong espresso or coffee, cooled
- 2 tbsp Kahlua (or skip for alcohol-free)
- 2 oz (55 g) dark chocolate, finely chopped
- Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting (optional)
How to Make Mini Tiramisu
- Mix the soak: In a shallow bowl, stir together cooled espresso and Kahlua. If you don’t have an espresso machine, here’s a guide on how to make espresso without a machine that works both at home and on the road.
- Make the cream: Whip cream and sugar to soft peaks, then gently fold in mascarpone until smooth. If you’re new to whipping cream, this quick tutorial on how to whip cream to soft peaks shows you what to look for.
- Assemble the jars:
- Briefly dip 1–2 ladyfingers into the espresso mixture.
- Break them if needed to fit, and place in the bottom of each jar.
- Spoon in mascarpone cream.
- Sprinkle with chopped chocolate.
- Repeat layers: Add more soaked ladyfingers, more cream, and another dusting of chocolate.
- Finish: Smooth the tops and dust with cocoa powder.
- Chill: Refrigerate at least 2 hours, or overnight, before enjoying.
Campfire note: These can be made entirely at home, chilled, and packed in your cooler for camp. Pull one out after dinner by the fire for an effortless, gourmet treat.
Tips & Variations for Mini Tiramisu
Substitutions
- Ladyfingers: Use shortbread cookies or graham crackers if you can’t find traditional savoiardi.
- Mascarpone: Substitute cream cheese for a tangier version.
- Kahlua: Try dark rum or skip the alcohol for a kid-friendly version.
Storage & Make-Ahead
Mini tiramisu jars keep well in a cooler or fridge for up to 3 days. Keep them tightly sealed with jar lids to prevent moisture loss.
Scaling the Recipe
- 2 servings (default): 4 oz mascarpone, ½ cup cream, 2 tbsp sugar, 6–7 ladyfingers.
- 4 servings: 8 oz mascarpone, 1 cup cream, 4 tbsp sugar, 12–14 ladyfingers.
- 6 servings: 12 oz mascarpone, 1½ cups cream, 6 tbsp sugar, 18–20 ladyfingers.
Nutrition for Mini Tiramisu (Per Serving)
Approx. 400 calories, 5 g protein, 30 g carbs, 28 g fat.
This dessert is rich and indulgent, but all foods can fit into a balanced lifestyle. Think of it as a well-earned reward after a long hike or a special end to a cozy dinner!
FAQ-Mini Tiramisu
Yes—mini tiramisu actually gets better as it rests. Make them the night before your trip or gathering, and the flavors will meld beautifully.
Since no cooking is required, the “method” is all about chilling. Pack the jars in a cooler and enjoy them straight from the campfire circle.
Keep sealed jars refrigerated or in a cooler with ice. Enjoy within 2–3 days for best texture.
Conclusion
These mini tiramisu jars turn a classic Italian dessert into a portable delight. Whether served in the glow of a campfire or at your dining table, they bring richness and charm in every bite.
Pack enough for your whole trip. You’ll thank yourself when the cravings hit after dark.
You’re Up
Tried these mini tiramisu jars? Let me know how they turned out! Post your photo and tag me on social, or drop a comment with your favorite way to enjoy them—packed for camp or served at home.
@thedisperseddietitian #thedisperseddietitian
Related Recipes & Inspiration
For more dessert options, try my Nutella Biscoff s’mores. They’re gooey, indulgent, and just as easy as classic s’mores but with a fun Biscoff and Nutella twist.
For a dessert drink, try my espresso martini. It pairs naturally with tiramisu’s coffee flavors and makes a cozy, café-inspired nightcap around the campfire.
Check out our whole blog for the best food and drinks in the wild along with the top hidden camping spots to enjoy them!
Mini Tiramisu Jars
Equipment
- 2 mason jars (8 oz wide-mouth)
- Hand mixer or whisk
- Mixing bowls
- Shallow dish (for soaking cookies)
- Cooler
Ingredients
- 4 oz mascarpone cheese (about half a container)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp sugar adjust to taste
- 6-7 ladyfingers
- ⅜ cup strong espresso or coffee cooled
- 2 tbsp Kahlua optional, or sub with extra coffee
- 2 oz dark chocolate finely chopped
- Unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- In a shallow bowl, mix cooled espresso and Kahlua.
- In a medium bowl, whip cream and sugar to soft peaks. Gently fold in mascarpone until smooth and fluffy.
- Briefly dip 1–2 ladyfingers into the espresso mixture, break them if needed to fit, and place in the bottom of each jar.
- Add a spoonful of mascarpone cream and sprinkle with chopped dark chocolate.
- Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers, mascarpone cream, and chocolate.
- Smooth the top and dust with cocoa powder or more chocolate.
- Chill at least 2 hours, or overnight, before serving.
- Enjoy!
Notes
Additional Resources
Fun fact: tiramisu has a rich history in Italian cuisine, with roots traced back to the Veneto region. You can read more about the history of tiramisu if you want to dive into the story behind this beloved dessert.