Tiramisu Cookies Recipe

If you adore the rich flavors and creamy texture of traditional tiramisu but want a fun twist, then this Tiramisu Cookies Recipe is going to be your new go-to treat. Imagine biting into a soft, espresso-infused cookie crowned with luscious mascarpone cream and a dusting of cocoa that perfectly captures the spirit of the classic Italian dessert. These cookies are delightfully indulgent yet surprisingly simple, making them a fantastic choice for anyone who loves dessert with a hint of sophistication and a lot of heart.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for this recipe is a breeze, but each element plays a crucial role in creating the iconic tiramisu flavor and velvety texture. From the espresso powder that gives the cookies their signature coffee kick to the mascarpone and cream cheese blend that delivers silky richness, every ingredient is essential.

• All-purpose flour: The sturdy base that gives your cookies just the right structure and tenderness.
• Cornstarch: Helps keep the cookies soft and tender by reducing gluten formation.
• Espresso powder: Packs a punch of coffee flavor that’s essential for the tiramisu vibe.
• Baking soda: Provides the lift, making the cookies perfectly puffed and light.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor, balancing sweetness and richness.
• Unsalted butter: Adds moisture and a creamy mouthfeel that is utterly satisfying.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough evenly for a balanced taste.
• Large egg: Binds ingredients together and contributes to the cookie’s soft texture.
• Vanilla bean paste: Infuses a warm, sweet vanilla note that complements the espresso beautifully.
• Mascarpone cheese: Brings the luxuriously creamy texture reminiscent of classic tiramisu filling.
• Cream cheese: Adds tang and body, enriching the frosting with a smooth finish.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting for that melt-in-your-mouth experience.
• Cold heavy cream: Whipped into the frosting for lightness and fluffy texture.
• Kahlua (optional): A splash of coffee liqueur for an adult twist that deepens the tiramisu flavor.
• Dark cocoa powder: To dust on top, providing a bittersweet finish that ties the cookie together.

How to Make Tiramisu Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. An evenly heated oven ensures your cookies bake perfectly, giving you that tender, chewy texture with slightly crisp edges that you want in every bite.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, espresso powder, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these dry components well is key to distributing flavors evenly throughout your dough so that every cookie bursts with that unmistakable tiramisu coffee essence.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a stand mixer or handheld mixer, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar for about 3 minutes until the mixture becomes pale and fluffy. This step is vital because it incorporates air, which helps the cookies rise beautifully and creates that desirable, light texture.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Introduce the egg and vanilla bean paste to the creamed butter and sugar, mixing them on low speed just until combined. Be careful not to overmix here, or you might lose that lovely tender quality we’re aiming for with these tiramisu-inspired cookies.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredient blend to your wet ingredients on low speed. Mixing just until everything comes together ensures the dough remains tender and delicate without becoming tough.

Step 6: Shape Cookies

Scoop about 1½ tablespoons of dough per cookie and roll each into a smooth ball. Place them spaced about 2 inches apart on parchment-lined baking sheets. This spacing is important for even baking and to allow each cookie to spread perfectly.

Step 7: Bake Cookies

Bake for 9-10 minutes until the edges turn a light golden and the tops feel dry and puffy. Let the cookies rest on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely—this helps set their structure while maintaining softness inside.

Step 8: Prepare the Frosting

In a clean bowl, beat mascarpone, cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla bean paste, and a pinch of salt until creamy and well combined. This luscious frosting blends the smooth tanginess of cheesecake with the richness of mascarpone, truly channeling classic tiramisu flavors in every dollop.

Step 9: Whip Cream Into Frosting

Slowly add the cold heavy cream while mixing on medium-low speed. Once combined, increase the speed and whip until stiff peaks form. If you like, gently fold in Kahlua to elevate the coffee notes with a spirited twist.

Step 10: Frost the Cookies

Transfer the frosting to a piping bag fitted with a wide tip. Pipe the frosting in concentric circles on top of each cookie, creating a swirl that is as pretty as it is delicious.

Step 11: Finish and Serve

Finally, sift a dusting of dark cocoa powder over the frosted cookies for that signature tiramisu look and bittersweet finish. These cookies shine when shared fresh but can also be stored carefully for a couple of days.

How to Serve Tiramisu Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

Add an extra touch of elegance by garnishing with chocolate shavings, a sprinkle of instant espresso powder, or a few coffee beans atop the cocoa dusting. These simple touches enhance both the presentation and aroma, making your cookies irresistible to the eye and palate.

Side Dishes

Pair your tiramisu cookies with a freshly brewed cup of espresso or rich cappuccino to complement the coffee notes in the cookie. Alternatively, a glass of milk or a subtle dessert wine can balance the sweetness beautifully, making every bite a luscious experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special event, arrange these cookies on a tiered dessert tray with mini espresso cups or alongside individual mousse parfaits. You could even sandwich frosting between two cookies for tiramisu cookie sandwiches that surprise and delight guests with every bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover tiramisu cookies in a single layer inside an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay fresh and maintain their creamy frosting best within three days, though honestly, they rarely last that long!

Freezing

You can freeze the unfrosted cookies layered between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container for up to one month. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge and then add frosting just before serving for optimal freshness.

Reheating

If you want to enjoy the cookies warm, let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes after removing from the fridge rather than reheating directly. This preserves the creamy texture of the frosting without melting it or altering the flavors.

FAQs

Can I make these cookies without espresso powder?

While espresso powder provides the essential coffee flavor characteristic of tiramisu, you can substitute it with very finely ground coffee or instant coffee granules. Keep in mind the flavor might be slightly less intense but still delicious.

Is it okay to use regular cream cheese instead of mascarpone?

Yes, the recipe already includes cream cheese along with mascarpone, which balances flavor and texture. However, skipping mascarpone entirely may change the luscious creaminess, so try to use both for the best tiramisu effect.

Can I omit the Kahlua if I prefer non-alcoholic desserts?

Absolutely! The Kahlua is optional and can be left out without sacrificing much flavor. You can replace it with a bit of coffee extract or simply enjoy the rich coffee taste from the espresso powder alone.

How do I make sure the cookies stay soft?

Be careful not to overbake, watch them closely around the 9-10 minute mark, and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack. Incorporating cornstarch also helps keep the texture tender and soft.

Can I use store-bought frosting instead of making it from scratch?

While you can, homemade mascarpone and cream cheese frosting offers a signature tiramisu taste and fluffy texture that’s hard to replicate with store-bought alternatives. Making it yourself is worth the extra effort for that authentic experience.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about turning a classic dessert into an easy-to-enjoy cookie, and this Tiramisu Cookies Recipe nails it wonderfully. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself on a cozy afternoon, these cookies promise to deliver that perfect balance of coffee, cream, and cocoa in every bite. Go ahead and try this recipe—you’ll be so glad you did!

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