Tiramisu Cookies
Tiramisu Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert we all love. They bring together the rich flavors of coffee, creamy mascarpone, and a touch of cocoa in…
By Ava
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Reading time: 6 min
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Tiramisu Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert we all love. They bring together the rich flavors of coffee, creamy mascarpone, and a touch of cocoa in a soft, chewy cookie form. These cookies have that perfect balance of sweet and bold, with a hint of espresso and the smoothness of cream cheese that make each bite so satisfying.
I love making these cookies when I want a treat that feels special but is easy to share. The best part is how they gently melt in your mouth, reminding me of the original tiramisu dessert but in a fun, portable cookie. Whenever I bake these, friends always ask for the recipe, which tells me they’re pretty irresistible.
For serving, I enjoy them with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate—it’s like having a mini coffee break in cookie form! They’re also great to pack in a lunchbox or bring along to a gathering, since they keep well and taste amazing even after a couple of days. These cookies have become a favorite pick-me-up that I always look forward to making again.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Espresso powder: This adds the classic coffee flavor key to tiramisu. If you don’t have espresso powder, instant coffee granules work well too. Just make sure they’re finely ground so they blend smoothly into the dough and filling.
Mascarpone cheese: The creamy star of the filling. If mascarpone isn’t available, you can swap it with a mix of cream cheese and heavy cream for a similar texture and tang.
Butter and sugar: These create the cookie’s texture and sweetness. Using unsalted butter lets you control the saltiness, but salted butter is fine if you adjust the added salt slightly.
Dark chocolate & cocoa powder: Essential for that rich finish. You can use semi-sweet chocolate if you prefer less bitterness, and sift cocoa powder gently over the cookies for an even dusting.
How Can I Make the Cookies Soft but Firm Enough to Hold the Filling?
Getting the right cookie texture is key. You want soft, chewy cookies that won’t crumble when you bite into the sandwich. Here are some tips:
- Use room temperature butter and cream it well with sugar to trap air, which helps cookies stay tender.
- Don’t over-mix once you add flour; this keeps cookies from becoming tough.
- Flatten the dough balls slightly before baking to get even thickness and good structure.
- Bake just until the edges start to turn golden but the center looks set; cookies will firm up more as they cool.
Following these steps helps you get cookies that hold their shape but stay pleasant and soft inside, perfect for sandwiching that delicious mascarpone filling.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – a sturdy, rimmed sheet helps bake cookies evenly without spills.
- Parchment paper – keeps cookies from sticking and makes cleanup easy.
- Electric mixer – speeds up creaming butter and whipping the mascarpone filling smoothly.
- Mixing bowls – use separate bowls for dry ingredients and for the filling to keep things tidy.
- Piping bag or zip-top bag – perfect for neatly filling and assembling the cookies.
- Sifter – helps dust cocoa powder evenly over the cookies for a professional look.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap espresso powder for finely ground chai spices to make chai tiramisu cookies with a warm, spicy twist.
- Mix in mini chocolate chips or chopped hazelnuts into the cookie dough for extra crunch and nuttiness.
- Add a splash of coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa) to the mascarpone filling for an adult version with richer coffee flavor.
- Try a dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg on top instead of cocoa for a subtle spicy note.
Tiramisu Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cookies:
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons instant espresso powder or finely ground espresso
For the Mascarpone Filling:
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese, softened
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon finely ground espresso or instant espresso powder
For Garnish:
- Cocoa powder, for dusting
- Dark chocolate, melted for drizzling
- Finely grated dark chocolate or chocolate shavings
How Much Time Will You Need?
It takes about 15 minutes to prepare the cookie dough, then 10-12 minutes to bake the cookies. While the cookies cool, spend 10 minutes on the mascarpone filling. Assembling and garnishing the cookies will take around 10 minutes. Chill the cookies for at least 30 minutes before serving. Overall, expect about 1 hour from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cookies:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and espresso powder. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Then add the egg and vanilla extract, beating until combined. Slowly add the dry ingredients, mixing just until a soft dough forms.
Drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto the baking sheet about 2 inches apart. Flatten each dough ball gently with your palm. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn golden and the tops are set. Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack before moving on.
2. Prepare the Mascarpone Filling:
Chill a mixing bowl and beat the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. In another bowl, blend the softened mascarpone cheese with powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and espresso powder until smooth. Carefully fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully combined and fluffy.
3. Assemble the Cookies:
When the cookies are cooled, pipe or spoon a generous amount of the mascarpone filling on the flat side of one cookie. Top it with another cookie, flat side down, and gently press to create a sandwich.
4. Garnish:
Dust the cookie tops lightly with cocoa powder, drizzle melted dark chocolate over them, and finish by sprinkling finely grated dark chocolate or chocolate shavings on top for a pretty, delicious touch.
5. Serve and Store:
Chill your tiramisu cookies in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld and the filling set. They taste wonderful served chilled or at room temperature. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I Use Instant Coffee Instead of Espresso Powder?
Yes! Instant coffee works well as a substitute. Just make sure it’s finely ground or dissolved so it blends smoothly into both the cookie dough and filling without gritty texture.
How Should I Store Leftover Tiramisu Cookies?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because of the mascarpone filling, refrigeration keeps them fresh and tasty. Let them come to room temperature or chill again before serving.
Can I Prepare the Cookies Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Cookies can be baked a day ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. Prepare the mascarpone filling and assemble just before serving for the freshest texture.
How Do I Make the Filling Less Sweet?
You can reduce the powdered sugar in the filling by half if you prefer a less sweet bite. Just be sure to taste as you go so the filling stays balanced and creamy.