Name: Tiramisu Cookies with Mascarpone Cream for Sweet Moments
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 71 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Butter (melted and cooled to room temperature); 1 cup Granulated Sugar; 1/2 cup Dark Brown Sugar; 1 large Egg; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (for cookies); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour; 1 teaspoon Baking Powder; 1 teaspoon Baking Soda; 2 tablespoons Instant Espresso Powder; 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1 cup Mascarpone Cheese; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (for cream); 1 cup Confectioners Sugar; 2 tablespoons Agave or Honey; 1 cup Heavy Cream; 2 tablespoons Cocoa Powder

As I stood in my kitchen, the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafted through the air, transporting me straight to a cozy café in Italy. That’s when I realized how much I craved the delightful twist of Tiramisu Cookies. This recipe marries the essence of a classic tiramisu with the comforting embrace of homemade cookies, topped with luscious mascarpone cream. Not only are these cookies soft, thick, and irresistibly chewy, but they also come together quickly using pantry staples—perfect for those of us who are always on the go yet yearn for a touch of indulgence. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply want to treat yourself, these Tiramisu Cookies will bring the flavors of Italy to your home. Ready to satisfy your sweet tooth in a whole new way? Let’s dive into this delicious adventure!

Why Are These Tiramisu Cookies Special?

Irresistible Flavors: These Tiramisu Cookies blend classic coffee notes with sweet mascarpone, creating an indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Quick to Make: With pantry staples on hand, you’ll whip these up in no time—ideal for busy schedules!
Versatile Delight: Whether served at a dinner party or enjoyed solo, they satisfy all cravings and pair beautifully with your favorite espresso.
Unique Texture: Soft, chewy cookies topped with silky mascarpone create a delightful mouthfeel that will leave you reaching for seconds.
Crowd Favorite: These cookies are sure to impress family and friends—everyone will ask for your secret after just one bite! For even more delightful desserts, check out my Bake Cookies Chocolate and Turkey Sugar Cookies recipes!

Tiramisu Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Base
• Butter – Adds richness and moisture; make sure it’s melted and cooled to room temperature.
• Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and helps with the cookie’s structure.
• Dark Brown Sugar – Enriches flavor with molasses undertones and adds moisture.
• Egg – Binds ingredients and contributes to the rise; use large eggs (57-60 g with shell).
• Vanilla Extract – Adds a warm sweetness that complements the coffee flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour – Forms the cookie’s structure.
• Baking Powder – Helps the cookies rise to achieve a fluffy texture.
• Baking Soda – Works alongside baking powder for optimal leavening.
• Instant Espresso Powder – Essential for that distinctive coffee flavor in your Tiramisu Cookies; don’t substitute with brewed coffee.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.

For the Mascarpone Cream
• Mascarpone Cheese – Creates a creamy topping that beautifully mirrors traditional tiramisu.
• Vanilla Extract (for cream) – Reinforces the flavor of the mascarpone cream.
• Confectioners Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the mascarpone cream; adjust for desired sweetness.
• Agave or Honey – Adds an extra touch of sweetness in the cream.
• Heavy Cream – Gives richness to the mascarpone cream and helps achieve stiff peaks.

For Dusting
• Cocoa Powder – A bittersweet topping that adds a classic tiramisu finish to your cookies.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Tiramisu Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Cookies
Start by preheating your oven to 180ºC (355ºF). Melt butter in a saucepan over low heat and allow it to cool to room temperature. In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter with granulated and dark brown sugar, mixing until the mixture is creamy and well-blended—about 1 minute.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
Once your butter-sugar mixture is smooth, add in one large egg and a teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix everything together thoroughly until fully incorporated, ensuring the egg is well blended and the mixture appears creamy.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, instant espresso powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into your wet ingredients, folding gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should be thick and slightly sticky.

Step 4: Shape Cookies
Use a 2-tablespoon cookie scoop to portion out the dough, rolling each portion into a ball. Place the shaped dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced adequately. Chill the tray in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to help firm up the dough, ensuring your Tiramisu Cookies hold their shape while baking.

Step 5: Bake Cookies
After chilling, remove the dough from the refrigerator and place 6 cookies on the lined baking sheet—leaving space between each. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-11 minutes, or until the edges appear lightly golden while the center remains soft. Let them cool on the baking tray for about 3 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Prepare Mascarpone Cream
In a medium bowl, combine mascarpone cheese, vanilla extract, confectioners sugar, agave or honey, and heavy cream. Use an electric mixer to whip the mixture until stiff peaks form, ensuring it’s smooth and creamy. Once ready, cover and refrigerate the cream until you’re ready to assemble the cookies.

Step 7: Assemble Cookies
Once the cookies have fully cooled, pipe a generous dollop of the mascarpone cream onto each cookie. Finally, dust each cookie with cocoa powder for that classic Tiramisu finish. Arrange beautifully on a platter and get ready to delight everyone with your homemade Tiramisu Cookies!

How to Store and Freeze Tiramisu Cookies

Room Temperature: Tiramisu Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. However, they taste best fresh!

Fridge: For extra freshness, store these cookies in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep them in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.

Freezer: If you’d like to enjoy these Tiramisu Cookies later, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a zip-top freezer bag, and they can last for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy chilled cookies, allow them to come to room temperature. For a warm treat, reheat in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, and then add a dollop of mascarpone cream on top!

Make Ahead Options

These Tiramisu Cookies are a fantastic option for meal prep, making them perfect for busy weeknights! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the ingredients and chilling it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Additionally, the mascarpone cream can be whipped and refrigerated up to 3 days ahead without losing its silky texture. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake the cookies and allow them to cool before piping on the cream. Dust them with cocoa powder just before serving to keep that visual appeal intact. This ensures your Tiramisu Cookies taste just as delicious, while saving you time when entertaining!

Tiramisu Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore these tasty twists for your Tiramisu Cookies, making them your own!

Almond Extract: Swap vanilla for almond extract in the dough for a delightful nutty flavor.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to maintain the cookie’s structure without the gluten.
Choco Chips: Add chocolate chips to the dough for an extra chocolatey experience that pairs beautifully with coffee.
Dairy-Free: Substitute the mascarpone with a coconut cream or vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free option that still delivers creaminess.
Sweetener Swap: Use honey or maple syrup in place of granulated sugar for a natural sweet touch in both cookies and cream.
Rich Cream: For a more indulgent cream, add a splash of coffee liqueur to the mascarpone cream; it enhances the overall flavor.
Sawdust Finish: Top the cookies not just with cocoa powder, but with crushed espresso beans for a crunchy texture and beautiful presentation.

These variations can make your Tiramisu Cookies stand out even more at gatherings. And don’t forget, if you love cookies, check out my delightful Bake Cookies Chocolate and Turkey Sugar Cookies recipes for more exciting desserts!

What to Serve with Tiramisu Cookies

These delightful cookies shine on their own, but serve them with these charming accompaniments for a complete indulgent experience.

Rich Espresso: Perfectly complements the coffee flavors in the cookies, enhancing their taste while providing that cozy café vibe.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla adds a delightful contrast in temperature and texture, creating an exquisite combination with the warm cookies.
Dark Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: Juicy, fresh strawberries dipped in dark chocolate elevate the dessert experience, adding a sweet and fruity balance to the richness.
Chilled Milk: A classic pairing, the crisp, refreshing taste of chilled milk softens the flavors of the cookies—great for kids and adults alike!
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top of the cookies adds a soft texture, enhancing the mascarpone cream topping.
Raspberry Sauce: Drizzle this tart sauce over your crispy cookies for a contrast that echoes the flavors of a classic tiramisu, blending sweetness and acidity beautifully.
Tea Selection: Serve alongside a warm cup of herbal or chai tea to create a comforting treat that delights the senses and satisfies your sweet cravings.

Savor each option to enhance the joy of your Tiramisu Cookies—your loved ones will thank you!

Expert Tips for Tiramisu Cookies

Butter Temperature: Ensure your melted butter has cooled to room temperature to maintain the right consistency in your cookie dough.
Chill the Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step! It helps the cookies retain their shape and results in a chewier texture.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix the dough until just combined to keep your Tiramisu Cookies soft and tender rather than dry and crumbly.
Instant Espresso Only: Always use instant espresso powder for maximum coffee flavor; brewed coffee adds unwanted moisture and alters the dough.
Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to modify the sugar levels in the mascarpone cream based on your preference to avoid overly sweet results.
Piping Tips: For a neat presentation, use a piping bag to apply the mascarpone cream; it makes your Tiramisu Cookies look professionally made!

Tiramisu Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best instant espresso powder for the cookies?
When selecting instant espresso powder, look for options labeled specifically for baking, not instant coffee. The espresso should be finely granulated with a rich, dark hue, and without any additives. You want a strong coffee flavor, as this will be the key component that gives your Tiramisu Cookies their signature taste.

What’s the best way to store Tiramisu Cookies?
For optimal freshness, store your Tiramisu Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want them to last longer, keep them in the refrigerator where they can stay fresh for about 3 days. Just remember to let them come back to room temperature before you enjoy them for the best texture!

Can I freeze Tiramisu Cookies? How?
Absolutely! To freeze your Tiramisu Cookies, start by allowing them to cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a lined baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the cookies into a zip-top freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. These cookies will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature, or reheat them briefly in the microwave for a warm treat.

What should I do if my cookie dough seems too sticky?
If you find your Tiramisu Cookies dough is too sticky to shape, this could be due to the humidity or the temperature of your ingredients. Try chilling the dough in the fridge for 10-15 minutes to firm it up, which will make it easier to scoop and roll into balls. Avoid adding flour unless absolutely necessary, as this can alter the cookie’s texture.

Are Tiramisu Cookies safe for people with nut allergies?
Yes, Tiramisu Cookies are safe for those with nut allergies as they do not contain any nuts in the base ingredients. However, always double-check the labels on your specific brands of ingredients (like the mascarpone and baking powders) to ensure there’s no potential cross-contamination. If you’re making them for someone with allergies, it’s always best to use certified allergen-free products!

Can I make the mascarpone cream ahead of time?
Certainly! You can prepare the mascarpone cream a day ahead. After whipping it to stiff peaks, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just give it a gentle stir before piping it onto your cooled cookies. This will save you time on the day you plan to serve your Tiramisu Cookies!