Tiramisu Cookies
Tiramisu Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert you know and love. These cookies capture the rich flavors of coffee, cocoa, and creamy mascarpone, all baked into…
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Tiramisu Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert you know and love. These cookies capture the rich flavors of coffee, cocoa, and creamy mascarpone, all baked into a soft and chewy treat. They’re the perfect mix of sweet and slightly bitter, just like the traditional tiramisu, but easier to hold in your hand.
I love making these cookies when I want something a little special but don’t have time to put together the full dessert. The coffee aroma fills the kitchen and makes everyone curious about what’s baking. Plus, the mascarpone adds a lovely creamy texture right in the cookie, giving it that authentic tiramisu feel without any fuss.
These cookies are wonderful with a cup of coffee or tea, especially during afternoon breaks or casual get-togethers. I like to sprinkle a little extra cocoa powder on top for a pretty finish, and they always disappear quickly whenever I share them. They’re a sweet little bite that brings a smile and a hint of café vibes right to your home.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: Softened unsalted butter gives the cookies a rich flavor and tender texture. If you prefer, you can use salted butter but reduce added salt slightly to keep balance.
Espresso Powder: This brings the classic coffee flavor. Instant espresso powder works best, but you can substitute with strong brewed coffee (use less liquid elsewhere) or instant coffee granules.
Mascarpone Cheese: This creamy cheese is key for authenticity in the filling. If unavailable, cream cheese mixed with a little heavy cream can work as a substitute but changes the flavor slightly.
Heavy Cream: Whipped heavy cream lightens the filling for a fluffy texture. For a lighter option, try using mascarpone mixed with plain Greek yogurt or whipped topping.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder dusted on top provides the traditional tiramisu look and flavor. Dutch-process cocoa offers a smoother taste, but natural cocoa is fine.
How Can I Get the Best Cookie Texture and Flavor?
Getting soft, chewy cookies that hold their shape is key! Here’s how I make sure:
- Chill the dough: This firms up the butter and lets flavors meld. It also helps cookies spread less and keeps them tender.
- Roll in sugar: Coating the dough balls in granulated sugar adds a slight crunch on the outside while keeping the inside soft.
- Don’t overbake: Watch for when cookie edges set and just start to turn golden. They may seem soft but will firm up as they cool.
- Flatten slightly before baking: This ensures even baking and creates a nice base for sandwiching the creamy filling.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheets – Perfect for baking cookies evenly without burning the bottoms.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats – Helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easy.
- Mixing bowls – You’ll need a few for separating dry and wet ingredients and for whipping the filling.
- Electric mixer or hand whisk – Makes it easier to cream butter and sugar and whip the heavy cream to soft peaks.
- Sifter or fine mesh sieve – Great for dusting cocoa powder evenly on top of the assembled cookies.
- Piping bag or spoon – Useful for spreading or piping the mascarpone filling neatly between cookies.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Replace espresso powder with finely ground coffee for a bolder, less processed coffee flavor.
- Add a splash of coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa) to the filling for an adult twist.
- Mix in mini chocolate chips or finely chopped dark chocolate into the cookie dough for extra chocolatey bites.
- Stir some cinnamon or nutmeg into the cookie dough to add warmth and spice, perfect for cooler days.
Tiramisu Cookies Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cookies:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons instant espresso powder
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Granulated sugar, for rolling cookies
For the Filling:
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon espresso or strong brewed coffee, cooled
For Garnish:
- Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
- Melted chocolate, for drizzling (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare the dough, 1 hour to chill it, about 10-12 minutes to bake the cookies, 10 minutes to prepare the filling, and 30 minutes to chill the assembled cookies. So, roughly 2 hours total, mostly waiting time, with a few easy steps.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cookies:
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well. Dissolve the espresso powder in 1 tablespoon of hot water, then stir it into the butter mixture. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Cover the dough and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
2. Bake the Cookies:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and then roll each ball in granulated sugar. Place them about 2 inches apart on the baking sheet and gently flatten each ball slightly with your hand. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are set and just golden. Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack.
3. Prepare the Filling:
In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. In a separate bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cooled espresso or coffee. Mix until smooth. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until the filling is creamy and fully blended.
4. Assemble the Cookies:
Pair cookies of similar sizes. Spoon or pipe a generous amount of the mascarpone filling onto the flat side of one cookie. Top it with the matching cookie, pressing gently to spread the filling evenly in between.
5. Garnish:
Dust the tops of the assembled cookies generously with unsweetened cocoa powder. For an extra special touch, drizzle melted chocolate over the top if you like.
6. Chill and Serve:
Place the assembled cookies in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the filling set. Serve chilled or at room temperature, perfect with your favorite cup of coffee or tea. Enjoy!
Can I Use Regular Coffee Instead of Espresso Powder?
Yes! You can substitute instant espresso powder with strong brewed coffee or instant coffee granules. Just reduce any added liquid elsewhere to keep the dough from getting too wet.
How Should I Store Leftover Tiramisu Cookies?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The filling is perishable, so keep them chilled and enjoy within a few days for the best flavor and texture.
Can I Make These Cookies Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cookies in advance and store them at room temperature for a day or two. Prepare the filling fresh and assemble right before serving for the best taste.
What’s the Best Way to Soften Mascarpone Cheese?
Let mascarpone sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes before using. This makes it easier to mix and helps create a smooth, creamy filling.
