Tiramisu Cookies
Tiramisu Cookies bring the beloved flavors of the classic Italian dessert into a fun, handheld treat. These cookies are soft and cake-like, with hints of coffee, cocoa, and a creamy…
Tip: save now, cook later.Tiramisu Cookies bring the beloved flavors of the classic Italian dessert into a fun, handheld treat. These cookies are soft and cake-like, with hints of coffee, cocoa, and a creamy mascarpone-inspired twist that make each bite feel like a little party for your taste buds.
I love making these cookies when I want something special but don’t want to go through the whole process of assembling a traditional tiramisu. They’re easy to share and perfect for potlucks or just treating myself on a cozy afternoon. Plus, the coffee flavor in them gives just the right pick-me-up without being too strong.
My favorite way to enjoy these cookies is with a warm cup of coffee or tea. Sometimes I even chill them in the fridge for a bit, which adds to that tiramisu vibe and makes the creamy flavors stand out. If you love tiramisu but want an easier, cookie-sized version, these will quickly become a favorite for you too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Instant espresso powder: This adds the signature coffee taste without needing to brew coffee. If you don’t have it, strong brewed coffee or espresso can work but reduce the liquid elsewhere in the recipe.
Mascarpone cheese: The star for creamy, rich filling. You can substitute with cream cheese for a tangier flavor, but mascarpone gives the classic tiramisu feel.
Unsweetened cocoa powder: Sprinkling this on top adds a slightly bitter contrast to balance the sweet cream. If you want, dust with cinnamon or finely grated chocolate instead for a twist.
Butter and sugar: Creaming together creates a tender cookie base. Using softened butter helps blend ingredients smoothly for the best texture.
How Do You Get the Perfect Soft, Yet Structured Cookie for Filling?
The key is mixing and baking just right to have a cookie that’s firm enough to hold filling but soft enough to bite through easily.
- Cream your butter and sugar well: This traps air for a lighter cookie.
- Don’t overmix once flour is added: Mix until just combined to keep cookies tender, not tough.
- Flatten dough balls before baking: This helps ensure even baking and a flat surface to sandwich easily.
- Bake until edges are golden but centers look soft: They’ll firm up slightly as they cool, creating the perfect texture.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheets – I like using sturdy, rimmed sheets for even baking and easy cookie removal.
- Parchment paper – it stops cookies from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Electric mixer – helps cream butter and sugar until fluffy and whips the filling perfectly.
- Mixing bowls – a few sizes make it simple to keep dry and wet ingredients separate.
- Cookie scoop or tablespoon – for evenly sized cookie dough balls that bake uniformly.
- Sieve or fine mesh strainer – great for dusting cocoa powder evenly on top.
- Piping bag (optional) – helps spread or decorate the mascarpone cream neatly inside the cookies.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Replace espresso powder with instant chai tea powder for a cozy spice twist.
- Add finely chopped dark chocolate to the cookie dough for little melty bites.
- Swap mascarpone filling for a mix of cream cheese and whipped cream to boost tanginess.
- Mix in orange zest to the filling for a fresh citrus note that pairs well with coffee flavors.
How to Make Tiramisu Cookies?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cookies:
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Dusting:
- Unsweetened cocoa powder
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and bake the cookies, plus an additional 10 minutes to make the filling. After assembling the cookies, chill them for at least 1 hour before enjoying. So plan for around 1 hour and 30 minutes total including chilling time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cookies:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and instant espresso powder. In a large bowl, cream softened butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined to form a soft dough.
2. Bake the Cookies:
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, place rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart. Flatten each slightly with your palm or the bottom of a glass. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until edges are lightly golden but centers still look soft. Let them cool on the sheets for 5 minutes, then move to a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Make the Filling and Assemble:
While cookies cool, beat mascarpone cheese in a medium bowl until smooth. In another bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Gently fold whipped cream into mascarpone until smooth. Spread or pipe a generous layer of filling onto the flat side of one cookie, then sandwich with another cookie. Dust the tops with cocoa powder using a sieve. Chill assembled cookies for at least 1 hour before serving to let flavors meld.
Can I Use Regular Coffee Instead of Instant Espresso Powder?
Yes, you can substitute brewed strong coffee or espresso for the instant espresso powder, but reduce any other liquid in the recipe a bit to keep the dough from becoming too wet. It might slightly change the cookie texture but the coffee flavor will still be there.
How Should I Store Tiramisu Cookies?
Store the assembled cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They keep best for up to 3 days since the filling contains dairy. Let them come to room temperature for a few minutes before serving for the best creamy texture.
Can I Make the Filling Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mascarpone filling a day ahead and keep it refrigerated in a sealed container. Give it a quick stir before assembling the cookies to refresh the texture.
Is There a Dairy-Free Alternative for the Filling?
You can try using dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream whipped with powdered sugar as a substitute. The flavor and texture will be different but it makes a nice vegan-friendly option.
