Name: Tiramisu Cookies: Soft, Chewy Delights for Coffee Lovers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (softened); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (can use brown sugar); 2 large Eggs (room temperature); 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract (can substitute with almond extract); 2 tablespoons Espresso Powder/Instant Coffee (can substitute with strong brewed coffee); 2 teaspoons Hot Water; 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (or gluten-free flour blend); ½ teaspoon Baking Powder; ½ teaspoon Salt; ½ cup Mascarpone Cheese (can use cream cheese); ¼ cup Cocoa Powder (for dusting)

The aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingles with sweet notes of cocoa as I pull the first batch of Tiramisu Cookies from the oven. These delightful treats transform the indulgence of traditional tiramisu into a handheld dessert that everyone can enjoy. With a soft, pillowy center and a dusting of cocoa powder, they’re not just easy to make but also kid-friendly, making them a perfect project for budding bakers and busy parents alike. Whether you’re hosting a coffee-themed gathering or simply craving a sweet pick-me-up, these Tiramisu Cookies are bound to impress, elevating your dessert game to new heights. Curious about how simple ingredients can create this crowd-pleasing delight? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why Are Tiramisu Cookies So Irresistible?

Decadent Flavor: Each bite offers a delightful combination of rich espresso and creamy mascarpone, reminiscent of the classic tiramisu.
Effortless Preparation: With just a few simple steps, these cookies come together quickly, making them ideal for a last-minute treat.
Kid-Friendly Fun: Perfect for little hands to help, these cookies bring joy while baking together as a family.
Versatile Enjoyment: Serve these cookies with coffee, milk, or even a scoop of ice cream for an elevated dessert experience that caters to all tastes.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Your guests will rave about the unique flavors, as these delightful cookies are sure to steal the spotlight at any gathering!

Tiramisu Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough
• Unsalted Butter (1 cup, 2 sticks) – Adds richness and moisture; ensure it’s softened for proper creaming.
• Granulated Sugar (1 cup) – Provides sweetness and helps create a tender cookie; can be replaced with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
• Large Eggs (2) – Binds the ingredients and adds moisture; use room temperature eggs for better mixing.
• Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons) – Enhances overall flavor; substitute with almond extract for a unique twist.
• Espresso Powder/Instant Coffee (2 tablespoons) – Infuses intense coffee flavor; can substitute with strong brewed coffee if preferred.
• Hot Water (2 teaspoons) – Dissolves coffee powder for seamless flavor integration.
• All-Purpose Flour (2 cups) – Provides structure to the cookies; use gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
• Baking Powder (½ teaspoon) – Leavens cookies for a lighter, fluffier texture.
• Salt (½ teaspoon) – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
• Mascarpone Cheese (½ cup) – Adds creaminess, emulating traditional tiramisu; cream cheese works as a substitute.

For the Finishing Touch
• Cocoa Powder (¼ cup for dusting) – The final touch that brings elegance and flavor; opt for Dutch-process for a richer taste.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Tiramisu Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cookie removal later. This initial step sets the stage for your Tiramisu Cookies to bake perfectly, retaining their soft centers and getting those delightful golden edges that we all love.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, combine softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Beat the mixture on medium speed for about 2–3 minutes until it is light and fluffy, creating a lovely texture that forms the base of your Tiramisu Cookies. You’ll notice the color lightening as air is whipped in, which helps create a tender and delightful cookie.

Step 3: Mix in Wet Ingredients
Dissolve the espresso powder in 2 teaspoons of hot water for a smooth flavor infusion. Add this mixture, along with the eggs and vanilla extract, to the creamed butter and sugar. Blend until everything is well combined, allowing those rich coffee notes to meld into the mixture, enriching the flavor of your cookies.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This mixture ensures an even distribution of leavening throughout the dough. Gradually add the dry ingredient blend to the wet mixture, mixing gently until just combined. Overmixing here can lead to tougher cookies, so aim for a unified dough that still retains a soft texture.

Step 5: Fold in Mascarpone Cheese
Gently fold in the mascarpone cheese, which adds that signature creamy richness reminiscent of traditional tiramisu. Be careful not to overmix; you want the dollops of creaminess to remain as a treat within the cookie dough. This step is essential for creating the delightful, indulgent experience that Tiramisu Cookies provide.

Step 6: Scoop the Dough
Using a tablespoon, scoop generous portions of dough onto your prepared baking sheet, ensuring to leave about 2 inches of space between each cookie. This spacing allows the Tiramisu Cookies to spread evenly while baking, resulting in that perfect chewy center coupled with lightly crisp edges.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake the Tiramisu Cookies for 10–12 minutes. Look for golden edges and soft centers that set but are not fully firm. Keep a close eye; the cookies go from perfect to overbaked quickly, and a slightly underbaked cookie provides a delightful chew.

Step 8: Cool and Dust
Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows them to set up before transferring to a wire rack. Once fully cool, dust the Tiramisu Cookies with cocoa powder using a fine-mesh sieve for a beautiful and elegant finish that mirrors the classic dessert they emulate.

Expert Tips for Tiramisu Cookies

Softened Butter: Make sure the butter is truly softened to avoid clumps and ensure a light, airy cookie texture.
Measure Carefully: Use a kitchen scale if possible for the flour; too much can lead to a dry cookie, so ensure accurate measurements.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until combined to maintain that soft and chewy center; overmixing can toughen the cookies.
Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake. Remove them when the edges are golden but the centers still look a bit soft; they’ll continue to firm up while cooling.
Cooling Tips: Give your cookies enough time to cool on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack; this helps set their shape and texture.
Storage Method: Store your Tiramisu Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their soft, chewy goodness for up to 3 days.

What to Serve with Tiramisu Cookies

These Tiramisu Cookies make for a delightful treat, especially when paired with complementary flavors to create a full dessert experience.

Rich Espresso: Brew a cup of your favorite espresso for an invigorating pairing. The bold coffee flavor harmonizes with the cookies’ espresso notes, enhancing the overall taste.
Ice Cream Scoop: A scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream adds a creamy contrast to the cookies’ softness. Combine the warm, chewy cookie with cold ice cream for a decadent treat.
Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries or raspberries brings a bright, tart contrast that cuts through the sweetness. These fresh flavors rejuvenate the palate and add a pop of color to your dessert spread.
Cold Milk: Pour a chilled glass of milk alongside the cookies. This classic pairing complements the indulgence and makes each bite even more satisfying.
Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: A warm drizzle of chocolate sauce can elevate the cookies’ flavor with added richness. This sweet addition offers both decadence and visual appeal to your dessert table.
Mint Tea: Serve with a calming cup of mint tea to refresh flavor profiles and cleanse the palate after indulging in the sweet treats. This adds a soothing touch to your dessert experience.
Glass of Red Wine: Choose a light-bodied red wine that complements the chocolate and coffee flavors. This pairing adds a touch of elegance, perfect for a sophisticated evening.
Cocoa-Dusted Whipped Cream: Top some whipped cream lightly dusted with cocoa powder for a simple yet delightful garnish. This added creaminess beautifully mirrors the Tiramisu theme and enhances the dessert experience.

Tiramisu Cookies: Delicious Variations Await

Feel free to experiment with these delightful twists on Tiramisu Cookies to make the recipe your own!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies safe for those with gluten intolerance. They’ll still taste deliciously indulgent!
Chocolate Delight: Stir in dark chocolate chunks or mini chocolate chips for a rich chocolatey experience that complements the coffee flavor perfectly.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or hazelnuts for a delightful crunch. The nutty texture will elevate the cookies and provide added depth to each bite.
Mocha Magic: Swap some of the espresso powder for cocoa powder to create a mocha-flavored cookie, blending the flavors of coffee and chocolate harmoniously.
Caramel Twist: Drizzle melted caramel over cooled cookies for an extra layer of sweetness. The gooey caramel pairs beautifully with the flavors in these cookies.
Cream Cheese Swap: Substitute mascarpone cheese with cream cheese for a tangy twist on the original recipe. This change adds a distinct flavor profile that many will love.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper for a warm spice that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the cookies. This surprise element will intrigue your taste buds.
Cookie Sandwich: Make your Tiramisu Cookies into delightful sandwiches by spreading a layer of your favorite frosting or whipped cream between two cookies for an added treat.

And if you’re looking for more yummy cookie inspiration, don’t forget to check out these delicious recipes: Nutty Chocolate Date Cookies and Crunchy Nut and Seed Cookies with Dried Plums.

Make Ahead Options

These Tiramisu Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients, then cover it tightly and refrigerate. This not only enhances the flavors but also helps the dough firm up, making it easier to scoop later. For added convenience, the formed cookie dough balls can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough directly onto a baking sheet and add an extra minute or two to the baking time. This means you can enjoy fresh, indulgent Tiramisu Cookies with minimal effort, all while maintaining their delightful flavor and soft texture!

How to Store and Freeze Tiramisu Cookies

Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them soft and fresh.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer them to a zip-top bag; they can last up to 2 months.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the Tiramisu Cookies at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving to restore their delightful texture.

Reheating: If you prefer warm cookies, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds; this enhances the experience of their soft, chewy centers.

Tiramisu Cookies Recipe FAQs

What kind of espresso powder should I use for Tiramisu Cookies?
I recommend using a high-quality espresso powder for the richest flavor. Look for brands specifically labeled for baking or instant coffee that dissolves easily. If you can’t find espresso powder, strong brewed coffee can also work—just use about 4 tablespoons to maintain the coffee flavor!

How should I store Tiramisu Cookies to keep them fresh?
Store your Tiramisu Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keeping them sealed helps maintain their soft, chewy texture. If you want to keep them for a longer time, consider freezing them!

Can I freeze Tiramisu Cookies? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Tiramisu Cookies, first, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm (about 1-2 hours). Then, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag. They can be stored this way for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.

What should I do if my Tiramisu Cookies turn out too dry?
If your cookies are dry, it could be due to overmixing the dough or too much flour. Next time, ensure you are measuring your flour correctly—spoon it into your measuring cup rather than scooping it, which can compact the flour. Additionally, keep an eye on the baking time; taking them out a bit early can yield a softer, chewier result.

Can I make these Tiramisu Cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make these cookies gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend you choose includes xanthan gum or another binding agent, as this will help maintain the cookies’ structure and texture.

Are Tiramisu Cookies safe for pets?
I always advise caution! Tiramisu Cookies contain ingredients like chocolate and caffeine from espresso, both of which are harmful to pets. It’s best to enjoy these delightful treats yourself and keep them out of reach from your furry friends.