Tiramisu Cookies

If you love tiramisu, get ready to fall head over heels for these Tiramisu Cookies. They take everything you adore about the classic Italian dessert—bold espresso flavors, velvety mascarpone, cocoa-dusted perfection, and a hint of rum (non-alcoholic version here!)—and pack it into a soft, chewy cookie. Imagine a buttery cookie infused with espresso, filled with a creamy mascarpone center, and finished with a dusting of rich cocoa powder.

These cookies are easier to make than traditional tiramisu but still deliver that iconic layered flavor. Perfect for coffee lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike, they make a stunning addition to holiday cookie trays, special occasions, or even just an indulgent afternoon snack. Plus, with no baking required for the filling, you get all the decadence of tiramisu in a fraction of the time!

Why You’ll Love These Tiramisu Cookies

• Soft, Chewy, and Flavorful – Every bite is packed with deep espresso and chocolate flavors.

• Mascarpone-Filled Center – A rich, creamy filling that makes these cookies extra indulgent.

• Tastes Like Classic Tiramisu – Layers of coffee, cocoa, and vanilla just like the beloved Italian dessert.

• Make-Ahead Friendly – The dough can be prepped in advance and even frozen for later.

• No Need for Ladyfingers – Get the tiramisu experience in a fun, handheld form without layering and chilling.

Preparation Time and Yield

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Chill Time: 30 minutes

• Cook Time: 12 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour

• Yield: 18 cookies

Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)

• Calories: 220

• Carbohydrates: 26g

• Protein: 3g

• Fat: 12g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 14g

Ingredients for Tiramisu Cookies

For the Cookies:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 2 tablespoons instant espresso powder

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• ½ cup brown sugar

• 1 large egg

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• ¼ cup brewed espresso or strong coffee, cooled

For the Mascarpone Filling:

• ½ cup mascarpone cheese, softened

• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

For Dusting:

• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder

Step-by-Step Instructions for Tiramisu Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and espresso powder. Set aside.

2. In a large mixing bowl, beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).

3. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.

4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with the brewed espresso, until a soft dough forms.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

5. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This helps intensify the espresso flavor and prevents spreading during baking.

Step 3: Make the Mascarpone Filling

6. In a small bowl, mix mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.

7. Place the filling in the refrigerator while the dough chills.

Step 4: Assemble the Cookies

8. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

9. Scoop 1 tablespoon of cookie dough, flatten it slightly, and add ½ teaspoon of mascarpone filling in the center.

10. Place another small piece of dough over the filling, seal the edges, and gently roll into a ball. Repeat with the remaining dough.

Step 5: Bake and Finish

11. Arrange cookies 2 inches apart on the baking sheet.

12. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers remain slightly soft.

13. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

14. Once completely cool, dust with unsweetened cocoa powder for the classic tiramisu finish.

Ingredient Background

Each ingredient in Tiramisu Cookies plays a key role in recreating the classic tiramisu flavors while ensuring the cookies are soft, chewy, and flavorful. Let’s take a closer look at some of the essential components.

Espresso Powder and Brewed Coffee

Tiramisu is known for its bold coffee flavor, and these cookies capture that essence perfectly. Instant espresso powder is a must—it’s more concentrated than regular instant coffee, giving the cookies a rich, deep coffee taste without adding too much liquid. The brewed espresso or strong coffee in the dough enhances the flavor even more, creating that signature tiramisu depth.

Mascarpone Cheese

Mascarpone is the heart of any tiramisu recipe. This Italian cream cheese is rich, slightly sweet, and ultra-creamy, making it the perfect filling for these cookies. Unlike regular cream cheese, mascarpone has a higher fat content, giving it a luxurious texture. When mixed with powdered sugar and vanilla, it creates a smooth and lightly sweet center.

Unsweetened Cocoa Powder

No tiramisu is complete without a dusting of cocoa powder, and these cookies are no exception. The cocoa balances the sweetness of the cookies while adding a slightly bitter contrast, just like the topping on classic tiramisu.

Butter and Sugar

A mix of granulated sugar and brown sugar gives these cookies the perfect texture. The brown sugar adds a hint of caramel-like depth while keeping the cookies chewy and moist. Butter provides richness, ensuring that the cookies have a tender bite.

Flour and Baking Powder

A little baking powder ensures the cookies have a slight lift, keeping them soft rather than dense. All-purpose flour creates structure, allowing the cookies to hold their filling without spreading too much.

Technique Tips for Tiramisu Cookies

Making these cookies is pretty simple, but a few key techniques will take them from good to absolutely amazing.

First, don’t skip chilling the dough. Since this dough contains both butter and liquid espresso, it’s slightly soft when first mixed. Chilling helps firm up the butter and prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking. If the dough is still sticky after 30 minutes, chill it for an extra 10–15 minutes.

Next, when adding the mascarpone filling, work quickly and avoid overhandling the dough. If the mascarpone gets too warm, it can become runny when baked. Keeping the filling chilled until right before assembling helps it stay firm inside the cookies.

Finally, for evenly shaped cookies, use a cookie scoop for the dough and a small measuring spoon for the filling. This ensures each cookie is the same size, helping them bake evenly and look picture-perfect.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

Want to switch up the look and feel of these tiramisu cookies? Here are a few fun ways to serve them differently!

For a sandwich cookie version, bake the cookies without the filling and let them cool. Then, spread the mascarpone mixture between two cookies and gently press together. This creates a soft, creamy tiramisu sandwich cookie—perfect for dunking in coffee!

For a fancier plated dessert, serve these cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla gelato or coffee ice cream. Drizzle with a touch of warm espresso or chocolate sauce for an elegant tiramisu-inspired dessert plate.

For a holiday version, roll the unbaked cookie dough balls in espresso sugar (a mix of sugar and espresso powder) before baking. The slight crunch on the outside gives them a festive sparkle and an extra boost of coffee flavor.

Freezing and Storing Tiramisu Cookies

Since these cookies contain mascarpone, storing them properly is important for freshness and texture.

Storing at Room Temperature

If you’re eating them within 24 hours, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature. After that, they should be refrigerated to keep the mascarpone filling fresh.

Refrigerating for Later

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Before serving, let them sit at room temperature for about 5–10 minutes to soften slightly.

Freezing the Dough

Want to make these ahead? Shape the unbaked cookie dough balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer to a zip-top freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

Freezing Baked Cookies

If you’ve already baked them, freeze the cookies (without cocoa powder dusting) in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, stack them in a container with parchment paper between layers. They’ll last for up to 2 months.

Healthier Twist Ideas

If you want to lighten up these cookies, here are some easy swaps to make them a little healthier while keeping the flavor intact.

Instead of all-purpose flour, try using white whole wheat flour for extra fiber and nutrients. It keeps the cookies soft and chewy while adding a slightly nutty flavor.

For a lower-fat mascarpone filling, mix Greek yogurt with mascarpone. The yogurt adds protein and tanginess, balancing the richness of the filling.

If you’re cutting back on sugar, swap half of the granulated sugar for coconut sugar. It has a lower glycemic index and adds a hint of caramel flavor, which pairs beautifully with the espresso and cocoa.

Serving Suggestions for Events

These Tiramisu Cookies are perfect for many occasions, whether it’s a cozy coffee break or an elegant dessert for a special event.

For a holiday party, arrange them on a platter with a dusting of cocoa powder and a sprinkle of edible gold dust or powdered sugar for a festive touch. Pair with hot espresso or spiced chai for a warm, cozy treat.

For a romantic dessert, serve these cookies on a small plate with chocolate-covered espresso beans and a side of whipped cream. A drizzle of caramel sauce takes it to the next level.

For an afternoon tea or coffee gathering, stack them on a tiered stand with other coffee-flavored treats like mocha brownies or espresso macarons. They make a beautiful addition to any dessert spread!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make these without espresso powder?

Yes, but the coffee flavor will be milder. You can replace it with extra cocoa powder for a more chocolate-forward version.

2. What can I use instead of mascarpone?

Cream cheese is a great substitute, though it’s slightly tangier than mascarpone. Mixing it with a little heavy cream helps achieve a similar texture.

3. Can I add chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Mini dark chocolate chips work best and complement the espresso flavors beautifully.

4. How do I keep the filling from leaking out?

Make sure the dough is sealed tightly around the filling before baking. Chilling the filling beforehand also helps.

5. Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour substitute, and they’ll still come out soft and delicious.

Conclusion

Tiramisu Cookies are the ultimate treat for coffee lovers and dessert fans alike. They bring together bold espresso flavors, a creamy mascarpone filling, and a dusting of cocoa in a soft, chewy cookie. Whether you’re making them for a holiday, a special occasion, or just because you need a coffee-infused dessert, these cookies will definitely impress!

Try them today, and enjoy a handheld version of your favorite Italian dessert!

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