Tiramisu Cookies

Tiramisu is a classic Italian dessert renowned for its rich flavors and creamy texture. Combining layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cheese, and cocoa, it’s a beloved treat that’s both indulgent and comforting. But what if you could enjoy all those amazing tiramisu flavors in a convenient, portable cookie form? Enter tiramisu cookies—a delightful fusion of traditional tiramisu and cookies that brings together the best of both worlds.

These tiramisu cookies are packed with the signature coffee and mascarpone flavors, creating a deliciously unique treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just want a special treat for yourself, these cookies are sure to impress. Let’s dive into how to make these delectable cookies step by step.

Why Tiramisu Cookies?

Tiramisu cookies offer a fun twist on the classic tiramisu. They allow you to enjoy the iconic flavors of tiramisu in a cookie format, making them more versatile and easier to serve. They are perfect for cookie exchanges, dessert tables, or simply as a sweet treat to enjoy with your coffee.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Tiramisu Cookies

Ready to start baking? Here’s a comprehensive guide to making tiramisu cookies.

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

The cookie dough is the foundation of your tiramisu cookies. It’s essential to get this right to ensure your cookies have the perfect texture and flavor.

1. Cream the Butter and Sugars

• In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes on medium speed.

2. Add Eggs and Vanilla

• Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract.

3. Combine Dry Ingredients

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and instant espresso powder. The espresso powder will give your cookies the coffee kick characteristic of tiramisu.

4. Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your cookies tender.

5. Optional Add-Ins

• If you’re using chocolate chips or coffee liqueur, fold them into the dough now.

6. Chill the Dough

• Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the dough firm up and makes it easier to handle.

Step 2: Prepare the Tiramisu Flavor Filling

The tiramisu flavor filling is the key to making these cookies taste like tiramisu. This creamy filling will be added to the center of each cookie.

1. Whip the Cream

• In a medium bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. This should take about 3-4 minutes on high speed.

2. Mix Mascarpone and Sugar

• In a separate bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well blended.

3. Fold in Whipped Cream

• Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully combined. Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake the Cookies

Assembling and baking these cookies requires a bit of care, but the results are well worth the effort.

1. Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

2. Shape the Dough

• Scoop tablespoons of chilled dough and roll them into balls. Place them onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

3. Create a Well

• Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to make a small indentation in the center of each dough ball. This well will hold the tiramisu filling.

4. Bake the Cookies

• Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers will look soft but will firm up as they cool.

5. Cool and Fill

• Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, use a piping bag or a small spoon to fill the wells of the cookies with the tiramisu filling.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

A final touch of cocoa powder will give your tiramisu cookies an authentic tiramisu look.

1. Dust with Cocoa Powder

• Lightly dust the filled cookies with cocoa powder for a classic tiramisu appearance. Use a fine sieve to ensure an even coating.

2. Serve and Enjoy

• Serve the tiramisu cookies on a platter. They’re best enjoyed within a few days of baking, as the filling is fresh and creamy.

Tips for Perfect Tiramisu Cookies

Achieving the perfect tiramisu cookies involves a few key tips and tricks. Here are some to ensure your cookies turn out just right:

1. Use Fresh Mascarpone

• For the best flavor and texture, use fresh mascarpone cheese. Avoid using mascarpone that has been sitting in the fridge for too long.

2. Don’t Overbake

• Watch the cookies closely as they bake. They should be set around the edges but still soft in the center. Overbaking will make them dry.

3. Chill the Dough

• Chilling the dough is crucial for handling and shaping. It prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking.

4. Pipe the Filling Carefully

• When filling the cookies, be gentle to avoid breaking them. A piping bag with a small tip works well for this.

Variations and Customizations

One of the great things about tiramisu cookies is that you can customize them to suit your preferences.

1. Add Nuts

• Fold in chopped nuts like walnuts or hazelnuts into the cookie dough for added texture and flavor.

2. Experiment with Liqueurs

• If you enjoy the taste of coffee liqueur, add a splash to the cookie dough or filling for a more pronounced flavor.

3. Try Different Fillings

• Experiment with other creamy fillings or flavored mascarpone blends to create variations of the tiramisu cookie.

4. Make Mini Cookies

• For bite-sized treats, scoop smaller amounts of dough and adjust the baking time accordingly.

Serving Suggestions

These tiramisu cookies are versatile and can be served in various ways.

1. Coffee Pairing

• Enjoy the cookies with a cup of espresso or a latte for a true coffeehouse experience.

2. Dessert Platter

• Add these cookies to a dessert platter with other sweet treats for a delightful dessert spread.

3. Gift Idea

• Pack the cookies in a decorative box or tin for a thoughtful homemade gift.

Conclusion

Tiramisu cookies are a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert, combining the creamy, coffee-infused flavors of tiramisu with the convenience and portability of cookies. They’re perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering, looking for a special treat, or just want to enjoy a unique and delicious cookie.

By following this recipe and tips, you’ll be able to create cookies that are not only visually appealing but also packed with the rich, indulgent flavors of tiramisu. Don’t be afraid to experiment with variations and add your own personal touch. Enjoy the process and savor the delicious results!

So, the next time you’re in the mood for a cookie with a sophisticated twist, give these tiramisu cookies a try. They’re sure to impress and satisfy your cravings for a sweet and creamy treat!

FAQs

1. Can I use regular coffee instead of instant espresso powder?

Yes, you can use regular brewed coffee in place of instant espresso powder. However, instant espresso powder provides a more concentrated coffee flavor, which is ideal for these cookies.

2. How should I store tiramisu cookies?

Store tiramisu cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them to keep the filling fresh.

3. Can I freeze tiramisu cookies?

Yes, you can freeze tiramisu cookies. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

4. What can I use instead of mascarpone cheese?

If you can’t find mascarpone cheese, you can use cream cheese as a substitute. It won’t be quite the same, but it will still give a creamy texture to the filling.

5. Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the tiramisu filling a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container until you’re ready to use it. Just give it a quick stir before filling the cookies.

Yield: 20 Cookies

Tiramisu Cookies

Print

Tiramisu is a classic Italian dessert renowned for its rich flavors and creamy texture. Combining layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cheese, and cocoa, it’s a beloved treat that's both indulgent and comforting. But what if you could enjoy all those amazing tiramisu flavors in a convenient, portable cookie form? Enter tiramisu cookies—a delightful fusion of traditional tiramisu and cookies that brings together the best of both worlds.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes

Ingredients

• Coffee Sugar Cookies:
• 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon instant powder espresso
• 2½ cups (300 g) all purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• 1½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg (US), room temperature
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) vanilla extract
• Espresso Mascarpone Frosting:
• 8 oz. mascarpone cheese, cold
• 1½ cups (180 g) powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons instant powder espresso
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) vanilla extract
• 1 cup (237 ml) cold heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons (10 g) cocoa powder for dusting

Instructions

• In a small bowl, melt the butter and whisk in the espresso powder. Transfer to the fridge and cool for about 10 minutes.

1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter,1 tablespoon instant powder espresso

• In another bowl whisk together the flour, contarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.

2½ cups (300 g) all purpose flour,2 teaspoons cornstarch,1 teaspoon baking powder,¼ teaspoon baking soda

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk in the cooled espresso butter with the granulated sugar until well combined. Whisk in the egg and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.

1½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar,1 large egg (US), room temperature,1 teaspoon (5 ml) vanilla extract

• Preheat the oven to 375 F (190 C) for about 20-30 minutes before baking the cookies. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Allow the dough to rest while the oven preheats for 30 minutes.

• Bake at 375 F (190 C) for 10 - 12 minutes or until the edges of the cookies are set and the centers are slightly puffed.

• On low, whisk the mascarpone cheese until smooth. Once smooth, mix in the espresso powder, vanilla extract and powdered sugar until well combined.

8 oz. mascarpone cheese, cold,1½ cups (180 g) powdered sugar,2 teaspoons instant powder espresso,1 teaspoon (5 ml) vanilla extract

• Once all the sugar has been added, mix in the heavy cream slowly on low speed. Once all the heavy cream has been added, increase the mixer speed to medium for about 2 - 3 minutes or until the frosting is light and fluffy.

1 cup (237 ml) cold heavy whipping cream

• Top the soft and chewy espresso sugar cookies with 1 -2  tablespoons (15 - 30 ml) mascarpone frosting. Use the back of a spoon or an icing spatula to smoot the frosting across the top in a circular motion. Dust with cocoa powder and enjoy.

2 tablespoons (10 g) cocoa powder

Notes

Store: Place the frosted tiramisu sugar cookies in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 5 days.  Unfrosted cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 1 - 2 days.