Tiramisu Cookies Recipe

If you’re a fan of both coffee-flavored desserts and soft, chewy cookies, then you are going to absolutely adore these Tiramisu Cookies! Imagine the classic creamy decadence of tiramisu transformed into thick, rich cookies topped with a cloud-like mascarpone cream and a delicate dusting of cocoa powder. It’s like having the best of two worlds — the comfort of a cookie combined with the sophisticated flavor profile of tiramisu. Once you try these, you’ll want to bake them again and again, whether for an afternoon treat or a special occasion dessert everyone will rave about.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of these Tiramisu Cookies is in the simplicity of the ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, bringing distinct flavors and textures that together create that unmistakably indulgent tiramisu-inspired cookie experience.

• Butter (110 g): Adds richness and helps create a tender yet chewy cookie texture.
• Granulated sugar (100 g): Balances the flavors with just the right amount of sweetness.
• Dark brown sugar (100 g): Brings a deeper, caramel-like taste and adds moisture.
• Egg (1): Binds the dough and gives the cookies structure and softness.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors with its warm, aromatic notes.
• All-purpose flour (230 g): The foundation for the cookie’s tender crumb.
• Baking powder (½ teaspoon): Helps the cookies rise gently for a perfect thickness.
• Baking soda (½ teaspoon): Works with the brown sugar to create a chewy texture.
• Instant espresso powder (1 tablespoon): Packs in that signature bold coffee flavor essential for tiramisu.
• Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
• Mascarpone cheese (180 g): The star of the tiramisu cream that tops the cookies—luxuriously smooth and creamy.
• Confectioners sugar (90 g): Sweetens the mascarpone cream without grit.
• Agave or honey (20 g): Adds a gentle natural sweetness to the cream.
• Heavy cream (120 g): Whipped to stiff peaks for a light, airy mascarpone topping.
• Cocoa powder (1 tablespoon): For dusting the finished cookies with that classic tiramisu touch.

How to Make Tiramisu Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

Begin by melting the butter gently to retain all its liquid goodness—this will ensure your cookies stay soft and chewy. After cooling it to room temperature in the fridge, combine it with both granulated and dark brown sugars to create a beautifully rich and sweet base. Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract next to bind the mixture. Then, mix your dry ingredients — flour, leavening agents, espresso powder, and salt — separately before folding them gently into the wet mixture. This careful blending keeps the cookie dough tender yet well structured.

Step 2: Chill and Shape the Cookies

Using a cookie scoop, portion your dough into even balls for uniform baking. Rolling them between your hands creates a smooth, round shape that bakes up evenly. Refrigerate the dough balls for an hour to allow the flavors to meld and prevent the cookies from spreading too much in the oven. This chilling step is key to achieving that perfect thick cookie texture reminiscent of tiramisu layers.

Step 3: Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 180ºC (355ºF) and line your baking sheet with parchment paper. Place six cookies per tray, baking one tray at a time feels ideal for even heat exposure. Bake for 10-11 minutes until the edges are set but the centers remain soft. Let them rest on the tray for a few minutes; this prevents them from breaking apart and allows the cookies to solidify gently as they cool.

Step 4: Make the Mascarpone Cream

Whip mascarpone cheese, vanilla, confectioners sugar, agave or honey, and heavy cream together using an electric mixer until you reach stiff peaks. This mixture should be fluffy but hold its shape well — perfect for piping on top of the cooled cookies. If you’re preparing ahead, cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate to keep it fresh and firm.

Step 5: Assemble the Tiramisu Cookies

Once your cookies have cooled completely, transfer the mascarpone cream to a piping bag fitted with a swirl tip. Pipe generous swirls on top of each cookie, starting from the center outwards to mimic the look of a dessert centerpiece. Finish by dusting with a fine sieve of cocoa powder for that quintessential tiramisu touch that pulls the flavor and presentation together beautifully.

How to Serve Tiramisu Cookies

Garnishes

While cocoa powder is the classic choice to finish Tiramisu Cookies, you can sprinkle a few espresso beans on top for a crunchy contrast or add a tiny fresh mint leaf to brighten the look and aroma. These little details make serving these cookies even more special, creating the feeling of a fancy coffeehouse treat right at home.

Side Dishes

Pair your Tiramisu Cookies with a cup of freshly brewed espresso or a creamy cappuccino for the ultimate indulgent experience. They also complement a glass of sweet dessert wine or even a cold scoop of vanilla gelato if you want to serve them as part of a larger dessert spread.

Creative Ways to Present

You could build a stunning dessert platter by stacking these cookies and interspersing layers with fresh raspberries or chocolate shavings. Another fun idea is to serve them as mini dessert pizzas by piping the cream in fun patterns and offering different dusted toppings like cinnamon or nutmeg for variety, making your tiramisu cookie experience even more interactive and festive.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Tiramisu Cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain the delicate texture of the mascarpone cream. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making them perfect for enjoying over several afternoons or sending home with guests.

Freezing

You can freeze the baked cookie bases without the cream for up to 2 months. Store them in a freezer-safe bag or container and thaw at room temperature before adding the mascarpone topping. The mascarpone cream is best made fresh or kept chilled rather than frozen to preserve its silky texture.

Reheating

Reheat cookie bases gently in a low oven for 3-4 minutes if you want to enjoy them warm. Avoid microwaving the cookies after adding the cream as it can cause separation or melting of the delicate mascarpone topping.

FAQs

Can I make Tiramisu Cookies without espresso powder?

The instant espresso powder is key to achieving that authentic coffee flavor central to tiramisu. If you don’t have it, a strong brewed coffee reduction can work, but the flavor won’t be as concentrated or bold.

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much in the oven?

Chilling the cookie dough balls for at least an hour is essential. This helps the butter firm up and reduces spreading during baking, keeping your cookies thick and chewy.

Can I use a different sweetener in the mascarpone cream?

Yes! You can substitute agave or honey with maple syrup or even powdered sugar-only, but remember that agave and honey add a subtle floral note that nicely balances the cream’s richness.

How long can I store assembled Tiramisu Cookies?

Once assembled, it’s best to enjoy the cookies within 24 hours. The mascarpone cream is delicate and may lose its texture after longer storage.

Is it possible to make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and ensure your baking powder and baking soda are gluten-free. The texture may vary slightly, but the flavor will still shine.

Final Thoughts

These Tiramisu Cookies are truly a treat to share with friends and family. They bring together the cozy comfort of cookies and the luxurious flavors of tiramisu in one irresistible bite. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to become a beloved favorite. Don’t wait—grab your ingredients and start baking these delicious cookies today. You’ll be so glad you did!