If you adore the classic Italian dessert that combines rich coffee, creamy mascarpone, and a touch of cocoa, then this Tiramisu Cookies Recipe is going to be your new favorite treat. These sandwich cookies capture all those decadent flavors in a handheld version, featuring soft, espresso-infused cookies paired with a luscious mascarpone filling dusted gently with cocoa powder. They’re elegant yet approachable, perfect for sharing with friends or sneaking a few bites at any time of day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this recipe is super straightforward, yet each component plays an essential role in bringing the cookie’s flavor and texture to life. From the espresso powders that deliver that signature coffee kick to the creamy mascarpone that makes every bite melt in your mouth, here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened): Provides a rich, tender texture and helps the cookies stay soft.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps the cookies brown beautifully.
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar: Brings moisture and a subtle caramel flavor for extra depth.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with floral warmth.
- 2 tablespoons espresso or strong brewed coffee (cooled): Infuses the dough with authentic coffee notes.
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the base of the cookies for the perfect structure.
- 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder: Packs in an intense coffee flavor without extra moisture.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Gives the cookies just enough lift for a soft crumb.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works alongside baking powder for balanced rise and texture.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips: Adds delightful bursts of chocolate in every bite.
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese (softened): The star of the filling, lending creamy richness.
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the mascarpone filling perfectly without graininess.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling): Adds a hint of sweetness and complexity to the filling.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting): Provides the classic tiramisu finishing touch.
How to Make Tiramisu Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and both sugars until the mixture becomes light and fluffy—this is key for a tender cookie. Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, followed by the vanilla extract and cooled brewed coffee. The coffee is what really brings that signature flavor to these cookies!
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients and Mix
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, instant espresso powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, folding them in until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this helps keep your cookies delightfully soft. To finish, gently fold in the mini chocolate chips that create those little pockets of chocolatey goodness.
Step 3: Bake the Cookies
Use a tablespoon to scoop out the dough, placing portions evenly spaced on your parchment-lined sheets. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges just begin to set but the centers remain soft. Allow them to cool completely on the baking sheets—this step is important so the cookies don’t crumble when you assemble them.
Step 4: Prepare the Mascarpone Filling
While the cookies are cooling, whip up the mascarpone filling by beating together the softened mascarpone, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This luscious filling is what turns simple sandwich cookies into an indulgent tiramisu-inspired treat.
Step 5: Assemble the Cookies
Once the cookies are cooled, spread or pipe a generous dollop of mascarpone filling onto the flat side of one cookie and gently sandwich it with another. To finish off, lightly dust the tops with unsweetened cocoa powder to recreate that classic tiramisu look and add a slight bitterness that balances the sweetness perfectly.
How to Serve Tiramisu Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance the visual appeal by lightly sprinkling cocoa powder just before serving, or add a few finely grated dark chocolate shavings for a bit of texture and extra chocolate aroma. Fresh mint leaves or a couple of espresso beans on top can also elevate the presentation, making these cookies look almost too good to eat.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair beautifully with a hot cup of espresso or cappuccino to double down on the coffee experience. For an afternoon treat, consider serving alongside a scoop of vanilla gelato or a small bowl of fresh berries to add a fresh contrast to the cookie’s rich flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging your tiramisu cookies on a beautiful platter in a pyramid shape or within individual mini dessert jars layered with extra mascarpone cream and a dusting of cocoa for a stunning dessert at parties. Wrapping a few in parchment paper tied with twine also makes for a charming homemade gift idea that friends and family will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Tiramisu Cookies Recipe fresh and tender, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The mascarpone filling loves the cool environment, and chilling helps the flavors meld beautifully. Enjoy them within 3 to 4 days for the best taste and texture.
Freezing
You can freeze the baked cookies without the filling by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag once firm. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw completely and assemble with fresh mascarpone filling to preserve the creamy texture.
Reheating
If you prefer your cookies slightly warmed, simply remove the filling and warm the cookies separately in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. Then add the mascarpone filling again and enjoy the warm coffee-flavored cookie with a cool, creamy center—utter bliss in every bite.
FAQs
Can I use regular brewed coffee instead of espresso powder?
Yes! Using strong brewed coffee works wonderfully in this recipe, especially in the wet ingredients, but instant espresso powder is recommended for a more concentrated coffee flavor in the dough without adding moisture.
Is mascarpone cheese necessary for the filling?
Mascarpone is essential for that authentic creamy texture and mild tang that defines tiramisu flavor. However, if you’re in a pinch, cream cheese mixed with a bit of heavy cream can be a substitute, though the taste won’t be quite the same.
How do I get the perfect cookie texture for these tiramisu cookies?
The key is not overbaking—cookies should be soft around the edges and just set in the center. Also, creaming the butter and sugars well ensures a tender crumb that perfectly balances with the creamy filling.
Can I make these cookies vegan or dairy-free?
While this recipe relies on traditional ingredients like butter and mascarpone, you can experiment with plant-based butter and vegan cream cheese alternatives. Keep in mind the texture and flavor might vary, so some trial and error could be needed.
What is the best way to serve these cookies at a party?
Serve tiramisu cookies on a decorative platter dusted with cocoa powder alongside small espresso cups or mini dessert glasses filled with coffee or liqueur. This encourages guests to savor both the cookie and its classic flavor pairing.
Final Thoughts
This Tiramisu Cookies Recipe is a delightful twist on a much-loved dessert that’s easy to make and irresistibly delicious. Whether you bake them for a special occasion or simply to enjoy a luxurious coffee-flavored treat at home, they never fail to impress. Give these cookies a try—you’ll find they’re not only a feast for the taste buds but also a joy to share with friends and family!
Print
Tiramisu Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 37 minutes
- Yield: 20 sandwich cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Tiramisu Cookies capture the beloved flavors of the classic Italian dessert in a delightful sandwich cookie form. Soft buttery cookies infused with espresso and mini chocolate chips are paired with a creamy mascarpone filling and dusted with cocoa powder for an indulgent treat perfect for any coffee lover or dessert enthusiast.
Ingredients
Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons espresso or strong brewed coffee (cooled)
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
Filling
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese (softened)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
- unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which provides the perfect base for the cookie dough.
- Add Eggs and Flavorings: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and cooled brewed coffee to infuse the dough with rich coffee flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, instant espresso powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures the leavening agents and espresso powder are evenly distributed.
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can result in tough cookies. Fold in the mini chocolate chips for bursts of chocolate throughout.
- Scoop and Bake: Using a tablespoon, scoop portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them adequately. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are set but the centers remain soft.
- Cool Cookies: Remove cookies from the oven and allow them to cool completely on wire racks to maintain their shape and texture before assembling.
- Prepare Filling: Beat together the softened mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy, perfect for sandwiching.
- Assemble Sandwiches: Spread or pipe the mascarpone filling onto the flat side of one cookie. Top with another cookie to create a neat sandwich.
- Finish with Cocoa Powder: Lightly dust the tops of the assembled sandwich cookies with unsweetened cocoa powder for an authentic tiramisu finish before serving.
Notes
- For a stronger coffee flavor, increase the instant espresso powder slightly or brush the baked cookies lightly with cooled coffee before filling.
- Cookies can be baked in advance and assembled just before serving to maintain freshness.
- Store assembled cookies in the refrigerator for best texture and to keep the mascarpone filling fresh.
- Make sure the mascarpone cheese is softened to ensure a smooth filling consistency.
