Tiramisu Cookies
Tiramisu Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert, combining the rich flavors of coffee, cocoa, and creamy mascarpone into a soft, chewy cookie. Each bite has that…
Tip: save now, cook later.Tiramisu Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert, combining the rich flavors of coffee, cocoa, and creamy mascarpone into a soft, chewy cookie. Each bite has that perfect balance of sweet and slightly bitter, with a moist center that reminds me of the famous layered treat. They’re easy to enjoy and make the perfect snack or dessert when you want a little something special.
I love making these cookies when I want to impress friends without spending hours in the kitchen. The coffee flavor wakes up your taste buds, and the dusting of cocoa powder on top adds that final touch of elegance. One tip I’ve found helpful is to chill the dough before baking—it helps the cookies hold their shape and develop a wonderful texture.
These cookies are great for sharing at a coffee break, bringing to parties, or enjoying with a cup of tea or espresso. I often find myself craving just one (or two!) late in the afternoon, and they never disappoint. They bring a little bit of that classic tiramisu charm into a fun, handheld form that’s hard to resist.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Espresso Powder: This is what gives the cookies that classic coffee flavor. If you don’t have espresso powder, instant coffee granules or strong brewed coffee (reduced a bit) will work well too.
Mascarpone & Cream Cheese: Mascarpone is key for that rich, creamy tiramisu feel. If it’s hard to find, you can use all cream cheese, but mascarpone helps keep the topping light. Softened cream cheese is easier to whip smooth.
Butter and Sugars: Using both granulated and brown sugar helps the cookies get a slightly chewy texture with a hint of molasses flavor. I always soften the butter at room temperature to mix it smoothly with the sugars.
Cocoa Powder & Melted Chocolate: Cocoa powder dusted on top adds bitterness that balances the sweetness. For the drizzle, choose a good quality dark or semi-sweet chocolate for extra flavor.
How Do You Get the Perfect Tiramisu Cookie Texture?
The key is to bake the cookies until their edges are set but centers remain soft. This keeps them chewy and tender, mimicking the classic tiramisu softness.
- Use softened butter and don’t overmix the dough to avoid tough cookies.
- After baking, cool completely on a wire rack so cookies set but stay moist.
- Chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking can help the cookies hold their shape and improve texture.
For the topping, whip heavy cream to stiff peaks before folding it into the cheese mix. This lightens the cream, making it fluffy but stable enough to spread or pipe.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheets – flat and sturdy for even baking and easy cookie removal.
- Parchment paper – prevents cookies from sticking and makes cleanup quick.
- Mixing bowls – for combining cookie dough and whipping the cream topping separately.
- Electric mixer or hand mixer – helps get the butter and sugars fluffy and whips the cream to stiff peaks.
- Sifter or fine mesh strainer – perfect for dusting cocoa powder evenly on top of the cookies.
- Wire cooling rack – lets cookies cool evenly without getting soggy underneath.
- Spatula or piping bag – to spread or pipe the tiramisu cream topping neatly on the cookies.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Replace espresso powder with cinnamon for a warm, cozy twist that still pairs well with the cream topping.
- Add 1/2 cup chopped dark chocolate or chocolate chips to the dough for extra texture and chocolate flavor.
- Swap mascarpone with ricotta cheese for a lighter, creamier topping if you prefer less richness.
- Mix in a teaspoon of orange zest into the dough or topping for a fresh citrus note that brightens the flavors.
How to Make Tiramisu Cookies?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cookies:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons instant espresso powder or finely ground coffee
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
For the Tiramisu Topping:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1-2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)
For Decorating:
- Cocoa powder, for dusting
- Melted chocolate, for drizzling
Time You’ll Need:
This recipe takes around 20 minutes to prepare the dough and topping, 10-12 minutes to bake the cookies, plus at least 1 hour chilling time for the flavors to meld. So, plan on about 1 hour and 30 minutes total, including cooling and chilling.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Bake the Cookies:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining baking sheets with parchment paper. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Then add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each, and mix in the vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, espresso powder, and cocoa powder. Slowly add these dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Scoop the cookie dough onto your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart, and gently flatten each scoop slightly. Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, until their edges are set but the centers still look soft. Remove and let them cool completely on a wire rack.
2. Make the Tiramisu Topping:
While the cookies are cooling, combine the softened cream cheese, mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a bowl. Beat this until smooth and creamy. In another chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Carefully fold the whipped cream into the cheese mixture to keep it light and fluffy. If you want a little extra flavor, gently fold in the coffee liqueur at this point.
3. Assemble and Chill:
Once the cookies are fully cooled, spread or pipe the tiramisu cream topping generously over each cookie. Lightly dust the tops with cocoa powder using a sift or fine mesh strainer, and drizzle melted chocolate over the top for an elegant finish. Place the cookies in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the topping to set. You can serve them chilled or at room temperature for a delicious tiramisu-inspired treat!
Can I Use Regular Coffee Instead of Espresso Powder?
Yes! You can substitute instant coffee granules or strong brewed coffee for espresso powder. Just make sure to reduce the liquid slightly if using brewed coffee to avoid a wet dough.
How Should I Store Tiramisu Cookies?
Store these cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The topping contains cream cheese and mascarpone, so keeping them chilled is best for freshness.
Can I Make the Cookies Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cookies a day or two in advance. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature, then add the tiramisu topping and decorate just before serving.
How Can I Make the Topping Dairy-Free?
Try substituting with dairy-free cream cheese and coconut whipped cream to keep the creamy texture. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious!