Baileys Tiramisu Shots (No-Bake Dessert Magic!)

Hey friends!
Today, I’m excited to share a baking recipe that isn’t actually baked — but it’s every bit as dreamy and indulgent as your favorite oven-warmed treats. These Baileys Tiramisu Shots are silky, rich, and perfect for when you want to impress with minimal effort.

Imagine this: layers of soft espresso-soaked ladyfingers, fluffy mascarpone cream with a whisper of Baileys, and a dusting of cocoa that melts on your tongue — all served up in cute little glasses. They’re like a coffee cocktail and a dessert had a very elegant, very delicious baby.

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Recipe at a Glance

Detail	Info
Prep Time	25 minutes
Chill Time	4 hours (or overnight)
Total Time	~4.5 hours
Skill Level	Easy – beginner friendly
Yield	8–10 shot glasses (2 oz each)
Tools Needed	Electric mixer, piping bag (optional), mixing bowls, spatula
Make Ahead?	Yes! Best made the night before

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Ingredients List & Notes

For the Espresso Soak

• ½ cup strong brewed espresso (cooled)
  Sub: instant coffee or cold brew concentrate
• 2 tbsp Baileys Irish Cream
  Optional but adds depth! Can sub with Kahlua or skip for non-alcoholic

For the Mascarpone Cream

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
  Tip: Chill your bowl and beaters for best whip
• 8 oz mascarpone cheese, room temp
  Sub: Cream cheese works in a pinch, but mascarpone gives that classic tiramisu flavor
• ¼ cup powdered sugar
  Sweetens without grittiness
• 3 tbsp Baileys Irish Cream
  Can adjust up/down for stronger flavor

For Assembly

• 12–14 ladyfingers (Savoiardi style), cut in halves or thirds
  If using soft ladyfingers, reduce soak time
• Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
• Dark chocolate shavings (optional), for garnish

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brew, Cool & Spike Your Coffee

• Brew ½ cup strong espresso and let it cool completely.
• Stir in 2 tbsp Baileys.
• Set aside in a shallow bowl for dipping.

Pro Tip: Don’t skip the cooling! Warm espresso will make your ladyfingers soggy too fast.

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Step 2: Whip the Cream to Soft Peaks

• In a chilled mixing bowl, whip 1 cup heavy cream until soft peaks form.
• Set aside — this gets folded in for a dreamy texture.

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Step 3: Make the Baileys Mascarpone Cream

• In another bowl, beat mascarpone, powdered sugar, and 3 tbsp Baileys until smooth and creamy.
• Gently fold in the whipped cream using a spatula, preserving that airy lightness.

Sensory Cue: The cream should feel cloud-like and hold soft peaks.

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Step 4: Dip & Layer

• Briefly dip each ladyfinger piece in the espresso-Baileys soak — just 1–2 seconds per side.
• Place one or two pieces at the bottom of each shot glass.
• Pipe or spoon a layer of mascarpone cream over.
• Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and cream.

Tip: For cleaner layers, use a piping bag or zip-top bag with the corner snipped off.

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Step 5: Chill & Dust

• Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
• Just before serving, dust the tops with unsweetened cocoa powder and add dark chocolate shavings if using.

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Serving & Storage Tips

Aspect	Details
Fridge	Keeps well for 2–3 days, covered tightly.
Freezer	Not recommended — mascarpone cream may separate.
Serving Tip	Serve chilled straight from the fridge. Add cocoa powder right before serving.

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Troubleshooting & FAQ

Problem	Solution
Cream too runny	Make sure cream was whipped to soft peaks and mascarpone wasn’t overbeaten.
Ladyfingers too soggy	Dip quickly (1 second max) and use firm Savoiardi-style biscuits.
No mascarpone available	Use full-fat cream cheese, slightly softened, but flavor will differ.
Want non-alcoholic	Skip Baileys and use vanilla extract for flavor depth.

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Flavor Variations

• Mocha Lovers’ Dream: Add 1 tbsp cocoa powder to the cream layer for a mocha twist.
• Berry-Twist Tiramisu: Add a spoonful of raspberry jam between layers for fruity contrast.
• Nutella Swirl: Drizzle Nutella between layers for an extra indulgent version.

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Final Thoughts

These Baileys Tiramisu Shots are the kind of treat that look fancy but are secretly super easy. They’re portable, portion-controlled, and guaranteed to get “OMG, you made these?!” reactions every time.

Ready to create some magic in your kitchen?
Give these a try, and let the creamy Baileys goodness do the talking. Don’t forget to share pics if you make them — I’d love to see your creations!

Happy layering,
– Your Dessert-Loving Friend

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