Tiramisu Cookies Recipe

These Tiramisu Cookies are pure magic for anyone who loves the classic Italian dessert but wants their treat in a delightful, handheld form. Imagine the rich depth of espresso, the silky mascarpone frosting, and a dusting of cocoa all packed into a soft, chewy cookie – it’s everything you crave about tiramisu, made totally snackable. The layers of flavor, from coffee-infused cookie base to cloud-like frosting, are guaranteed to wow your taste buds and impress at any gathering. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a party, or simply a night-in with close friends, these Tiramisu Cookies have a way of disappearing faster than you can say “just one more.”

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making Tiramisu Cookies is surprisingly simple and uses ingredients you likely already have, each playing a key role. From rich espresso to the creamy mascarpone, every element brings out the famous tiramisu flavors in cookie form. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

• Instant Espresso Powder: Gives the cookie its signature coffee kick and deep, aromatic flavor. Don’t be tempted to skip it!
• Boiling Water: Dissolves the espresso powder for even flavor distribution throughout the dough.
• All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of the cookies, creating the perfect chewiness and structure.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda: These leaveners help the cookies puff up and stay soft in the center.
• Salt: Enhances every other flavor in the cookie. Always include a pinch!
• Unsalted Butter: Softened butter ensures a tender, melt-in-your-mouth cookie base. Use real butter for best results.
• Brown Sugar: Adds moisture and a gentle caramel note that pairs beautifully with coffee.
• Granulated Sugar: Balances the dark richness with a bit of classic sweetness.
• Egg Yolks: Only the yolks give these cookies extra richness while keeping them soft.
• Pure Vanilla Extract: Boosts all the flavors and brings warmth to both the dough and frosting.
• Mascarpone Cheese: The creamy, dreamy heart of tiramisu – cold and thick for the best frosting texture.
• Heavy Whipping Cream: Whipped with the mascarpone for a cloudlike, luscious frosting.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the frosting just the right amount and helps it stay sturdy atop the cookies.
• Pinch of Salt: Just a touch in the frosting keeps it from being overly sweet.
• Cocoa Powder & Chocolate Curls: Classic tiramisu finishing touches – dust for elegance and add curls for chocolate lovers!

How to Make Tiramisu Cookies

Step 1: Dissolve the Espresso

Begin by mixing the instant espresso powder with boiling water in a small bowl. Give it a good stir so that all granules dissolve completely, creating a concentrated coffee solution. Set it aside to cool to room temperature. This step is essential – if the espresso is too hot, it could melt your butter or scramble the eggs later!

Step 2: Whisk the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk everything together to distribute the leaveners evenly and break up any lumps in the flour. This ensures every bite of your Tiramisu Cookies is tender, lofty, and well-seasoned.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars

Add the softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar to a large mixing bowl. Use an electric mixer (stand mixer or hand mixer) with the paddle attachment to cream everything until the mixture is light and fluffy – about 1 to 2 minutes on medium speed. This step aerates the dough for irresistibly tender cookies.

Step 4: Add the Egg Yolks, Vanilla, and Espresso

Mix in the egg yolks and vanilla extract until combined, then pour in your cooled espresso. This mixture brings richness, warmth, and that essential coffee flavor to your Tiramisu Cookies. Mix just until everything is smooth and incorporated.

Step 5: Add Dry Ingredients and Make Dough

Add the whisked dry ingredients to your wet mixture and mix on low until no streaks of flour remain. Don’t overwork it! The dough should be soft but cohesive. If it feels too sticky to handle, pop it in the fridge for 20 to 30 minutes until it firms up.

Step 6: Shape and Bake the Cookies

Using a large cookie scoop, portion the dough into balls and roll them between your hands to smoothen. Arrange 5 or 6 balls per parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving at least 3 inches between each one. Using the bottom of a glass or your palm, gently flatten each dough ball slightly into a disk. Bake at 350F for 10 to 12 minutes, or until puffed and lightly golden at the edges. Allow to cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet before moving to a wire rack.

Step 7: Make the Mascarpone Frosting

In a clean bowl, combine cold mascarpone cheese, heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Using an electric mixer with the whisk attachment, beat on high speed until stiff peaks form. This creates a rich, fluffy frosting that’s reminiscent of classic tiramisu layers.

Step 8: Frost and Decorate

Once your cookies have cooled completely, generously spread or pipe the mascarpone frosting onto each one. For the authentic tiramisu effect, sift cocoa powder over the frosting and, if you’re feeling extra decadent, shower each with a few chocolate curls. Chill the finished Tiramisu Cookies in the fridge until you’re ready to serve!

How to Serve Tiramisu Cookies

Garnishes

For picture-perfect Tiramisu Cookies, dust each frosted cookie with a cloud of unsweetened cocoa powder right before serving. Add chocolate curls for a luxurious touch – simply shave a chocolate bar with a vegetable peeler! If you want to go even fancier, a coffee bean or tiny sprinkle of espresso powder on top makes them look bakery-ready.

Side Dishes

These cookies are fantastic with a small espresso, cappuccino, or a creamy vanilla latte. For something non-caffeinated, try serving them alongside a glass of cold milk or even a scoop of vanilla gelato for a play on the classic Italian dessert experience. If you’re hosting, offer a platter with a mix of fresh berries for a bright, tangy contrast to the rich cookies.

Creative Ways to Present

Lay out your Tiramisu Cookies on an elegant platter with alternating rows of chocolate curls and cocoa-dusted tops. Stack them in a tower for a showstopping centerpiece, or serve individually on small plates with tiny forks as a nod to traditional tiramisu. For gifts, package them in tissue-lined boxes tied with a ribbon – they travel beautifully!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Tiramisu Cookies keep best in an airtight container in the refrigerator because of the mascarpone frosting. Layer them with parchment paper between each cookie to avoid sticking, and enjoy within 3 to 4 days for the freshest texture and taste.

Freezing

You can freeze the baked, unfrosted cookies in a zip-top bag or airtight container for up to 2 months. To freeze frosted cookies, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer until solid, then transfer to a container, separating layers with wax or parchment paper. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

If you prefer your Tiramisu Cookies slightly warm, gently microwave an unfrosted cookie for 10 seconds. For frosted cookies, let them come to room temperature on the counter for 10 to 15 minutes to soften the frosting before serving. Avoid microwaving frosted cookies as the mascarpone layer can melt.

FAQs

Can I use brewed espresso or coffee instead of instant espresso powder?

For the boldest flavor in Tiramisu Cookies, instant espresso powder is best because it’s super concentrated and dissolves completely. If you’re in a pinch, use a very strong brewed espresso, but reduce the amount of liquid slightly so your dough doesn’t get too wet.

What can I substitute for mascarpone cheese?

The mascarpone is what makes these cookies taste like tiramisu, but in a pinch, you can use full-fat cream cheese. Soften it first and expect a slightly tangier frosting than the super-mild mascarpone brings.

Do I have to chill the dough before baking?

If your cookie dough feels sticky or hard to handle, chilling makes it easier to shape and helps prevent spreading in the oven. But if your dough is already firm, go right ahead and bake!

How do I get those perfect chocolate curls?

Use a sharp vegetable peeler along the edge of a room-temperature chocolate bar. Bigger curls form if the chocolate is just slightly softened but not melting. Sprinkle them on top just before serving so they stay picture-perfect.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Tiramisu Cookies are a party pleaser and the recipe doubles beautifully. Just make sure to bake in batches and watch your oven for even browning.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to delight coffee lovers and dessert fans alike, these Tiramisu Cookies truly deliver. Give them a try and see how quickly they become a favorite in your home – and don’t be surprised if you find yourself making double batches just to keep up!

Print