There’s something uniquely comforting about the combination of coffee and dessert, which is why I adore these tiramisu cookies. They embody the rich flavors of the classic Italian dessert while being easy to enjoy in cookie form. Not only are these cookies incredibly delicious, but they also evoke the same delightful textures and flavors—creamy, espresso-infused goodness nestled in a soft, chocolatey cookie. Perfect for coffee lovers or anyone looking to sweeten their afternoon break, these cookies are a hit in any setting.
What sets these tiramisu cookies apart is their combination of rich espresso, velvety mascarpone, and a hint of cocoa. Each bite delivers a delightful contrast—crispy on the edges yet wonderfully soft and chewy in the center. Plus, they come together with minimal effort, making them a perfect treat for both experienced bakers and novice cooks alike.
What makes it special
- Perfect blend of flavors—coffee, chocolate, and cream.
- Easy-to-make cookie form of a classic dessert.
- Stunning presentation with mascarpone cream.
- Ideal for gatherings or as a personal treat.
"These cookies are a delightful twist on a classic that’s so easy to make!"
Quick overview
Baking tiramisu cookies is simple! You’ll cream butter and sugar, beat in eggs and vanilla, then combine dry ingredients with the espresso. Scoop dough onto a baking sheet, bake until slightly firm, and once cooled, spread on a luscious mascarpone cream before dusting them with cocoa powder.
Key ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 cup strong espresso or coffee, cooled
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder for dusting
Ingredient notes & swaps
- Unsalted butter: Best for controlling salt content; can substitute with margarine.
- Espresso: Coffee can work in a pinch, but espresso imparts a richer flavor.
- Mascarpone cheese: Cream cheese can be used for a similar texture, though the flavor will differ slightly.
- Cocoa powder: Dutch-process cocoa offers a deeper flavor and darker color.
Step-by-step instructions
Ready to embrace the joy of baking tiramisu cookies? The process is straightforward and fun, guiding you step by step to a batch of delectable cookies.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy, typically around 3–5 minutes.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, mixing until completely incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder. Add the dry mixture to the butter mixture gradually, alternating with the cooled espresso, mixing just until combined.
- Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spaced at least 2 inches apart.
- Bake in the oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are slightly firm while the center stays soft.
- Allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.
- In a clean mixing bowl, beat together the mascarpone cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Once the cookies are cooled, spread a generous layer of the mascarpone mixture on top of each cookie, and lightly dust with cocoa powder before serving.
Pro Tip: Make sure your espresso is well-cooled before mixing in; this ensures it won’t melt the butter blend.
- Visual doneness cues: Look for edges that feel firm to the touch and a lightly set center—aromatic scents of cocoa will fill your kitchen.
Helpful cooking tips
- Don’t overmix the dough: Just combine until everything blends to maintain a tender texture.
- Chill your dough: If you prefer thicker cookies, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking.
- Use fresh espresso: Fresher coffee gives a more vibrant flavor to the cookies.
- Watch your baking time: Ovens can vary, so keep a close eye on the cookies in the last few minutes of baking.
What to serve it with
These tiramisu cookies pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of milk. For presentation, serve them on a lovely platter, perhaps alongside a small dish of extra mascarpone cream for dipping. They also make a decadent addition to dessert trays.
How to store & freeze
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Place cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once solid, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag. They can be kept like this for about three months—perfect for impromptu treats!
Food safety: Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours; reheat until steaming hot.
Troubleshooting
If your tiramisu cookies don’t turn out as expected, here are some quick fixes:
- Dry cookies: Make sure not to overbake them; they should look slightly underbaked in the center.
- Bland flavor: Check if your espresso was strong enough. This is key for depth.
- Soggy texture: This can happen if the dough isn’t properly baked; ensure the edges are set.
Creative twists
Feel free to get creative with your tiramisu cookies! Here are some fun variations:
- Add chocolate chunks: Fold in semi-sweet or dark chocolate pieces for an extra chocolate kick.
- Incorporate nuts: Finely chopped toasted hazelnuts or walnuts can add a delightful crunch that echoes traditional tiramisu.
- Flavor variations: Experiment by mixing in a splash of coffee liqueur for an adult twist or use flavored mascarpone.
Common questions
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cookie dough, chill it, and bake them fresh when you’re ready. The mascarpone can also be mixed ahead of time but should be spread just before serving.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
A good indicator is when the edges are firm, and the tops have cracked slightly. They may look underbaked in the middle but will firm up as they cool.
What can I do if I don’t have mascarpone cheese?
If you can’t find mascarpone, you can use cream cheese mixed with a bit of sour cream to achieve a similar creaminess.
How should I store these cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.
Can I substitute the flour for gluten-free options?
Yes, a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend can work in place of all-purpose flour. Just ensure it’s formulated for baking.
These tiramisu cookies bring the elegance of a classic dessert into the enjoyable form of a cookie, perfect for many occasions. Whether a treat for yourself or an impressive addition to a gathering, they are sure to delight anyone who tries them!
Tiramisu Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy, typically around 3–5 minutes.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, mixing until completely incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder. Add the dry mixture to the butter mixture gradually, alternating with the cooled espresso, mixing just until combined.
- Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spaced at least 2 inches apart.
- Bake in the oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are slightly firm while the center stays soft.
- Allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.
- In a clean mixing bowl, beat together the mascarpone cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Once the cookies are cooled, spread a generous layer of the mascarpone mixture on top of each cookie, and lightly dust with cocoa powder before serving.