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Protein Tiramisu Dessert Cups - A Lighter Take on a Classic Treat

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Ladyfingers (about 16–20) or a simple vanilla sponge cut into strips
  • Strong brewed coffee or espresso (1 cup), cooled
  • Vanilla or unflavored whey/casein protein powder (2 scoops, ~50–60 g)
  • Plain Greek yogurt (2% or 5%) (2 cups)
  • Mascarpone or light cream cheese (4–6 oz), softened
  • Maple syrup or honey (3–4 tbsp), to taste
  • Pure vanilla extract (1 tsp)
  • Pinch of salt
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder (2–3 tbsp), for dusting
  • Optional boosts: 1–2 tbsp coffee liqueur, dark chocolate shavings, a dash of cinnamon
  • 8–10 small dessert cups or jars (4–6 oz each)

Method
 

  1. Brew and cool the coffee. Make a strong cup, then let it cool completely. If using liqueur, stir in 1–2 tablespoons. Cool coffee helps the layers set without making the base soggy.
  2. Mix the creamy layer. In a bowl, whisk Greek yogurt, mascarpone (or cream cheese), protein powder, maple syrup, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Start with 3 tablespoons sweetener and adjust to taste. The mixture should be thick, smooth, and spoonable.
  3. Adjust texture if needed. If the cream is too thick, add 1–2 tablespoons milk. If it’s too loose, add a teaspoon more protein powder and whisk again.
  4. Cut the base to fit. Break ladyfingers in halves or thirds to fit the bottom of your cups. You want a snug layer without forcing the pieces in.
  5. Quick-dip the ladyfingers. Lightly dip each piece in the cooled coffee for 1–2 seconds per side. Don’t soak. Place a single layer in each cup.
  6. Add the first cream layer. Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of the cream over the coffee-soaked base. Smooth the top with the back of a spoon.
  7. Repeat layers. Add another quick-dipped ladyfinger layer, then more cream. You’ll usually get two layers per cup. Leave a little headspace for cocoa.
  8. Chill. Cover and refrigerate at least 2–4 hours, ideally overnight. Chilling lets the flavors blend and the cream set.
  9. Finish with cocoa. Just before serving, dust the tops with unsweetened cocoa powder. Add chocolate shavings if you like.
  10. Serve cold. Enjoy straight from the cup with a small spoon. Rich taste, lighter twist.