Tiramisu Cookies Recipe
If you adore the rich, creamy flavors of classic tiramisu but want to enjoy them in a fun, handheld treat, you absolutely must try this Tiramisu Cookies Recipe. These cookies capture all the essence of the beloved Italian dessert with a soft texture, a punch of coffee, a hint of cinnamon, and that melt-in-your-mouth mascarpone magic, finished off with a delicate dusting of cocoa powder. Whether it’s a cozy afternoon snack or a show-stopping dessert at your next gathering, these cookies bring comfort and elegance all in one bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Tiramisu Cookies Recipe plays a crucial role, coming together to create a balance of luscious texture, aromatic coffee flavor, and just the right sweetness. From the creamy mascarpone to the punchy espresso powder, you’ll find each element is simple yet essential.
- All-purpose flour (2 1/4 cups): Provides the sturdy base for your cookie dough, ensuring a soft but structured bite.
- Baking soda (1 tsp): Helps the cookies rise gently, giving them a light, tender texture.
- Salt (1/2 tsp): Enhances all the flavors, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
- Unsalted butter, softened (1/2 cup): Adds richness and moisture, making the cookies tender and buttery.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the dough and helps achieve that desirable light, fluffy texture when creamed with butter.
- Brown sugar, packed (1/2 cup): Contributes a subtle molasses flavor and soft chewiness.
- Large eggs (2): Bind everything together and add to the cookie’s overall richness.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Brings warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
- Instant coffee granules or espresso powder (1 tbsp): Impart authentic tiramisu coffee flavor that’s bold but not overpowering.
- Warm water (1 tbsp): Dissolves the coffee, helping it to blend evenly into the dough.
- Mascarpone cheese (1/2 cup): The star of the show, creating that signature creamy texture and subtle tang.
- Ground cinnamon (1/2 tsp): Adds a gentle spice note that complements the coffee beautifully.
- Cocoa powder (1/4 cup, for dusting): Gives the cookies a lovely cocoa finish, just like traditional tiramisu.
- Dark chocolate chips (1/4 cup, optional): For those who want an extra indulgent chocolate touch.
How to Make Tiramisu Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Coffee Mixture
Start by dissolving the instant coffee granules or espresso powder in warm water. This quick step unlocks that rich coffee aroma and flavor and ensures that it’s evenly blended into your cookie dough, giving your cookies that authentic tiramisu essence.
Step 2: Preheat and Prep
Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This preparation ensures your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick, making cleanup a breeze.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. These dry ingredients will create the perfect base with a subtle hint of warmth from the cinnamon, which elevates the overall flavor.
Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars
Using a mixer, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air, giving your cookies a tender texture and a beautiful rise when baked.
Step 5: Add Eggs and Flavorings
Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract and the cooled coffee mixture. The eggs add moisture and richness, while the vanilla and coffee weave together to form a deliciously aromatic base.
Step 6: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the bowl of dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix just until combined — avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender. Then, gently fold in the mascarpone cheese and dark chocolate chips if you’re using them for that luxurious extra layer of flavor.
Step 7: Shape and Bake
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about two inches apart so they have room to spread without sticking together. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden but the centers still look soft, which means they will continue to firm up as they cool.
Step 8: Cool and Dust with Cocoa Powder
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for about five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once fully cool, sift a light dusting of cocoa powder over the tops of each cookie to replicate the classic tiramisu look and add a final flavor kick.
How to Serve Tiramisu Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Tiramisu Cookies feel extra special, consider sprinkling a little extra cocoa powder or even a few chocolate shavings on top. A small dollop of whipped mascarpone on the side can also elevate their presentation and indulgent factor effortlessly.
Side Dishes
Pairing these cookies with a warm espresso or cappuccino truly brings the tiramisu vibe full circle. For a refreshing contrast, a scoop of vanilla gelato or a simple berry compote complements the richness beautifully without overpowering the delicate coffee notes.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or gifting, arrange your Tiramisu Cookies in a decorative tin lined with parchment, perhaps layered with coffee-soaked ladyfingers, to pay homage to the traditional dessert. You can also stack them with a layer of mascarpone cream between for an inventive cookie sandwich version.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once completely cooled, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and tender while preserving their dreamy tiramisu flavor.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these later, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a sealed freezer bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature, and they’ll remain incredibly satisfying.
Reheating
To revive slightly softened cookies, warm them gently in a 300-degree Fahrenheit oven for 5-7 minutes, or microwave individually for about 10 seconds. This will bring back a cozy, fresh-from-the-oven feel just like when you first baked them.
FAQs
Can I use regular brewed coffee instead of instant coffee granules in the Tiramisu Cookies Recipe?
While instant coffee or espresso powder dissolves more evenly into the dough, you can experiment with strong brewed coffee if you reduce the water content slightly to avoid making the dough too wet. However, the flavor might be less concentrated.
Is mascarpone cheese necessary for this recipe?
Yes, mascarpone is key to achieving that creamy, rich texture that sets these cookies apart from a typical coffee cookie. It adds moisture and a subtle tang reminiscent of real tiramisu, so it’s highly recommended.
How can I make these cookies vegan or dairy-free?
For a vegan twist, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a vegan cream cheese or cashew-based mascarpone substitute. Be mindful that the texture and flavor will shift slightly but can still be delicious!
Can I add liquor like Marsala or coffee liqueur?
Absolutely! Adding a tablespoon of Marsala or coffee liqueur to the wet ingredients can deepen the authentic tiramisu flavor and add a lovely boozy warmth, making these cookies even more indulgent.
Are these cookies gluten-free?
This Tiramisu Cookies Recipe calls for all-purpose flour, so it’s not gluten-free. However, you can try substituting with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, keeping in mind the texture might vary slightly.
Final Thoughts
These Tiramisu Cookies Recipe are a delightful way to enjoy the cherished flavors of tiramisu in a portable, approachable form. Whether you’re baking for friends, gifting something unique, or simply treating yourself, these cookies will bring a warm smile and that perfect combo of sweet coffee goodness every time. Go ahead and give this recipe a whirl – your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Tiramisu Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Description
Delight in these Tiramisu Cookies that capture the essence of the classic Italian dessert in an easy-to-make cookie form. Soft and flavorful with a hint of coffee and mascarpone, these cookies are dusted with cocoa powder for the perfect finishing touch. Perfect for coffee lovers and anyone craving a sweet treat with a sophisticated twist.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp instant coffee granules (or espresso powder)
- 1 tbsp warm water
- 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
Finishing Touch
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder (for dusting)
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (optional, for added richness)
Instructions
- Prepare the Coffee Mixture: In a small bowl, dissolve the instant coffee granules or espresso powder in 1 tablespoon of warm water. Set aside to cool completely to infuse the coffee flavor into the dough.
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheets: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. This evenly distributes the leavening agents and spice.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: Using a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with granulated sugar and packed brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This step is key to a soft cookie texture.
- Add Eggs and Flavorings: Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the creamed butter mixture, ensuring each egg is fully mixed before adding the next. Then add the vanilla extract and the cooled coffee mixture, blending well for a balanced flavor profile.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing just until everything is combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
- Add Mascarpone and Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the mascarpone cheese and, if desired, the dark chocolate chips to add moisture and richness to the cookies.
- Scoop the Cookie Dough: Drop tablespoon-sized portions of the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them approximately 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden and the centers are set. The cookies will be soft initially but will firm up as they cool.
- Cool the Cookies: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely to preserve their texture.
- Dust with Cocoa Powder: Once cooled, sift a light dusting of cocoa powder over the top of each cookie to emulate the traditional tiramisu topping, adding a touch of bitterness to balance the sweetness.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve these delicious tiramisu-inspired cookies alongside a cup of coffee or espresso to fully experience the classic Italian dessert flavors in cookie form.
Notes
- Ensure the instant coffee mixture has cooled before adding it to the batter to prevent curdling the eggs.
- Softened butter should be at room temperature but not melted for optimal creaming.
- Using parchment paper or silicone baking mats will help prevent cookie sticking and promote even baking.
- Cookies will firm up as they cool, so avoid overbaking to keep them soft and chewy.
- Mascarpone cheese adds moisture and richness but can be omitted if unavailable, though it is recommended for authenticity.
- Dark chocolate chips are optional but provide extra indulgence and depth of flavor.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
