Tiramisu Cookies
Tiramisu Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert, capturing all the flavors you love in a soft, chewy cookie. These little treats bring together the rich taste…
Tip: save now, cook later.Tiramisu Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert, capturing all the flavors you love in a soft, chewy cookie. These little treats bring together the rich taste of coffee, creamy mascarpone, and a touch of cocoa powder, all wrapped up in a perfect cookie that’s just the right balance of sweet and slightly bitter.
I love making these because they’re so fun to share with friends and family, especially when you want a dessert that feels special but is super easy to eat on the go. My favorite thing is that each bite gives you a hint of that coffee-soaked goodness, just like a traditional tiramisu, but with a cozy cookie twist. If you’re a coffee fan like me, these will quickly become your new favorite snack.
These cookies are perfect with a warm cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk, making them a wonderful treat any time of the day. I like to bake a batch to keep around for unexpected guests or just for those moments when I need a little pick-me-up. They remind me of sharing laughs over a coffee break, with a sweet surprise on the side.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mascarpone cheese: This cheese gives the frosting its creamy, rich texture. If you can’t find mascarpone, cream cheese is a decent substitute but may be a bit tangier.
Espresso or coffee: Strong coffee is key for that classic tiramisu flavor. Instant espresso powder dissolved in a little hot water also works well if you don’t have fresh brewed coffee.
Butter and sugars: Using both granulated and brown sugar balances sweetness and moisture. If you want a deeper flavor, try dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar.
Cocoa powder or chocolate: Unsweetened cocoa powder adds a slightly bitter finish, balancing the sweetness. You can use finely grated bittersweet chocolate if you prefer a richer taste.
How Do You Get Soft, Flavorful Coffee Cookies?
The cookie base needs to be soft to complement the creamy frosting, and getting that right is important.
- Mix the wet ingredients well before adding dry ingredients, but don’t overmix once flour is added. This keeps cookies tender, not tough.
- Add strong coffee or espresso liquid to the dough to infuse that iconic tiramisu flavor.
- Watch baking time closely—cookies should be slightly golden at edges but soft in the center when taken out.
- Cooling on the baking sheet allows the cookies to firm up gently, so don’t rush to move them.
What’s the Best Way to Make Smooth, Stable Tiramisu Frosting?
Mascarpone frosting can be delicate, so it helps to handle it carefully.
- Make sure mascarpone and heavy cream are well cold before mixing; this helps the cream whip up nicely.
- Beat mascarpone and heavy cream on medium-high speed but stop as soon as the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
- Avoid overbeating so mascarpone doesn’t separate or curdle.
- Adding coffee liqueur is optional but adds a lovely extra tiramisu flavor.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – to bake the cookies evenly and prevent sticking.
- Parchment paper – makes cleanup easy and stops cookies from burning on the bottom.
- Mixing bowls – you’ll need at least two for wet and dry ingredients.
- Electric mixer or hand mixer – helps beat the butter and mascarpone smooth and fluffy.
- Piping bag (or a zip-top bag) – makes frosting the cookies neat and pretty.
- Sifter or fine mesh strainer – perfect for dusting cocoa powder evenly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap espresso for instant coffee powder if you want a milder coffee flavor or don’t have espresso handy.
- Add ¼ cup finely chopped nuts (like almonds or hazelnuts) to the cookie dough for a nice crunch.
- Mix mini chocolate chips into the cookie dough to add chocolate surprises inside each cookie.
- Use flavored liqueurs like amaretto or hazelnut instead of coffee liqueur for a twist on the frosting’s taste.
How to Make Tiramisu Cookies?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cookies:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar, packed
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons strong brewed espresso or coffee, cooled
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
For the Tiramisu Frosting:
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese, softened
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon coffee liqueur (optional)
For Garnish:
- Unsweetened cocoa powder or finely grated dark chocolate
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prep and 10-12 minutes to bake the cookies. Allow extra time to cool the cookies before frosting. Chilling the frosted cookies for 30 minutes is optional but helps the frosting set perfectly. Overall, expect about 1 hour from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cookies:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In another large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well. Stir in the brewed espresso or coffee for that authentic tiramisu flavor. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Optionally, fold in mini chocolate chips for added texture. Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
2. Bake and Cool:
Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, until edges are light golden but centers remain soft. Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them set without breaking.
3. Make the Tiramisu Frosting:
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and coffee liqueur (if using) on medium-high speed until smooth and fluffy. Be careful not to overbeat, as mascarpone can curdle.
4. Assemble the Cookies:
Using a piping bag or a spoon, spread a generous layer of tiramisu frosting over each cooled cookie. Finally, dust the tops with a light sprinkle of unsweetened cocoa powder or finely grated dark chocolate to finish the classic tiramisu look and flavor.
5. Serve and Store:
Enjoy the tiramisu cookies right away or chill them in the fridge for 30 minutes so the frosting firms up a bit. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let cookies warm up slightly before serving for the best taste and texture.
Can I Use Instant Coffee Instead of Espresso?
Yes, instant coffee dissolved in a small amount of hot water works well as a substitute for brewed espresso. It still delivers that rich coffee flavor needed for tiramisu cookies.
How Should I Store Leftover Tiramisu Cookies?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let them come to room temperature before serving to soften the frosting and bring out the flavors.
Can I Make the Frosting Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the mascarpone frosting a day ahead and keep it covered in the fridge. Whip it briefly before spreading if it thickens too much.
What If I Don’t Have Mascarpone Cheese?
You can substitute cream cheese, though the frosting will be a bit tangier and less creamy than with mascarpone. For best results, soften the cream cheese to room temperature before mixing.
