Tiramisu Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert you know and love. These cookies bring together the rich flavors of coffee, cocoa, and creamy mascarpone—all in a soft, chewy cookie form. Each bite tastes like a small, sweet coffee break that feels just right any time of day.
I love making these cookies when I want something special but don’t want to go through the whole process of assembling a traditional tiramisu. They’re so easy to share with friends or family, and everyone always asks for the recipe. Plus, the mix of espresso and cocoa powder gives them a little kick that’s just perfect for coffee lovers like me.
My favorite way to enjoy these cookies is with a hot cup of coffee or even a glass of cold milk. They’re great for a cozy afternoon treat or to brighten up a simple dessert plate. Whenever I make them, they don’t last long because they’re just so tasty and comforting—exactly like a hug in cookie form.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Instant espresso powder
- This gives the cookies their coffee flavor without adding liquid. If you don’t have espresso powder, strong brewed coffee or instant coffee granules work fine, just reduce other liquids slightly.
- Mascarpone cheese
- The heart of that creamy tiramisu texture. If you can’t find mascarpone, cream cheese mixed with a little heavy cream can be a good substitute, although the flavor is a bit tangier.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder
- Dusting the cookies adds a slightly bitter balance to the sweet filling. Dutch-processed cocoa works especially well here, but natural cocoa is fine too.
- Coffee liqueur
- This is optional but adds depth. If you prefer to keep it non-alcoholic, you can skip it or add a little extra vanilla extract.
How Do You Get a Soft, Chewy Cookie Texture?
Soft cookies come from a combination of the right fats, proper mixing, and careful baking time. Here’s what works best:
- Use softened butter: Creaming it well with sugar traps air, making cookies light.
- Don’t overmix: Once you add flour, mix until just combined to avoid tough cookies.
- Chill the dough: Resting cold dough helps control spreading and enhances flavor.
- Watch the bake time: Cookies should be lightly golden on the edges but still soft in the center when you take them out. They’ll firm up as they cool.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls – you’ll need a few for combining dry and wet ingredients separately.
- Electric mixer or hand whisk – makes whipping mascarpone and cream smooth and easy.
- Baking sheet – for baking your cookies evenly.
- Parchment paper – keeps cookies from sticking and helps with easy cleanup.
- Spatula or spoon – perfect for folding the whipped cream into mascarpone without deflating it.
- Sifter or fine mesh strainer – to dust cocoa powder evenly over the finished cookies.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap espresso powder for chai spice mix for a warm, cozy twist to the cookies.
- Add finely chopped dark chocolate or chocolate chips into the cookie dough for extra richness.
- Stir in a teaspoon of orange zest to the mascarpone filling for a fresh, citrusy note.
- Use almond extract instead of vanilla for a nutty flavor that pairs well with coffee.
How to Make Tiramisu Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cookies:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Filling:
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon coffee liqueur (optional)
For the Dusting:
- Unsweetened cocoa powder
Time Needed
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare the dough, 1 hour chilling time, 10-12 minutes to bake, plus 15 minutes to prepare the filling. You also need to chill the assembled cookies for at least 30 minutes before serving. Overall, plan for about 2 hours from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cookie Dough:
Start by whisking together the flour, baking powder, salt, and espresso powder in a medium bowl. In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter with the sugar until light and fluffy. Then add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well combined. Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients and mix just until combined. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill it in the fridge for at least 1 hour to firm up.
2. Bake the Cookies:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop the dough by tablespoonfuls and roll into balls. Place them spaced out on the baking sheet and gently flatten each one. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let cookies cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Make the Creamy Filling:
Whip the heavy cream in a bowl until soft peaks form. In a separate bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and coffee liqueur (if using) until smooth. Carefully fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture, keeping it light and creamy.
4. Assemble the Tiramisu Cookies:
When the cookies are fully cooled, spread or pipe a generous dollop of the mascarpone filling onto the flat side of one cookie. Top it with another cookie to make a sandwich. Dust the tops with unsweetened cocoa powder to complete the classic tiramisu look and flavor.
5. Chill and Serve:
Place the assembled cookies in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes so the filling can set and flavors meld together. Serve chilled and enjoy your delicious tiramisu-inspired treat!
Can I Use Regular Coffee Instead of Espresso Powder?
Yes! You can substitute instant coffee granules or strong brewed coffee for espresso powder. If using brewed coffee, reduce any additional liquids slightly to keep the dough from becoming too wet.
How Should I Store Leftover Tiramisu Cookies?
Store the assembled cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The filling is fresh, so keeping them chilled helps maintain the creamy texture and flavor.
Can I Make the Cookies Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cookies in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Prepare the filling and assemble the cookies just before serving for the best texture.
Is There a Non-Alcoholic Option for the Filling?
Yes! You can simply omit the coffee liqueur or replace it with an equal amount of vanilla extract or brewed coffee for flavor without the alcohol.