The rich aroma of espresso, the dusting of cocoa powder, and that signature creamy tang of mascarpone. These Tiramisu Cookies take all the elegant elements of the classic Italian dessert and transform them into a soft, handheld treat. It's a sophisticated Tiramisu Cookie Recipe that feels fancy enough for a dinner party but cozy enough for a quiet afternoon with a book.
Why You'll Love This
This recipe solves the craving for tiramisu without the need to assemble an entire layered cake. The base is a soft, cake-like cookie infused with real espresso, mimicking the texture of soaked ladyfingers. I love how the coffee syrup brush adds moisture and depth, making these authentic Tiramisu Flavored Cookies. The whipped mascarpone topping creates a Mini Tiramisu experience in every single bite.
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What You'll Need
To achieve that genuine flavor, you need a few specialty ingredients alongside your baking staples. This Gourmet Sugar Cookie Recipe relies on cornstarch for softness and real espresso powder for that kick.
Check the recipe card for exact amounts and full instructions.
Main Ingredients
- Mascarpone Cheese: The essential heart of the frosting; it provides a rich, creamy tang you can't get from regular cream cheese.
- Espresso Powder: Used in both the dough and the syrup brush to deliver a deep, robust coffee punch.
- Cornstarch: My secret weapon for keeping the cookie texture tender and soft, similar to a cake.
- Kahlua: This coffee liqueur enhances the coffee notes and adds that classic "boozy" tiramisu aroma.
- Heavy Cream: Whips up with the cheese to create a stable, airy topping.
- Cocoa Powder: A light dusting finishes the look and adds a bitter counterpoint to the sweet frosting.
- Unsalted Butter: Use softened butter to ensure the dough creams properly for a light texture.
Optional Extras
If you love texture, you can sprinkle chocolate shavings over the frosting along with the cocoa. For an extra caffeine boost, place a chocolate-covered coffee bean on top of these Coffee-flavored Cookies.
How to Make Tiramisu Cookies (Step-by-Step)
This Unique Cookie Recipes guide involves three simple stages: baking the base, soaking with syrup, and frosting.
Make the Dough
Cream the butter and sugars, then mix in the egg and vanilla. Stir in the dry ingredients and the dissolved espresso mixture until a soft dough forms.
Why add liquid espresso? Dissolving the powder first ensures the coffee flavor is evenly distributed throughout the dough without gritty specks.
Chill & Bake
Refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes to firm up the butter, then scoop onto a baking sheet and flatten slightly. Bake until the edges are just set but the centers remain soft.
The Coffee Soak
Whisk espresso powder, hot water, and Kahlua together. While the cookies are still warm, gently brush the tops with this syrup. This step is crucial for mimicking the "soaked ladyfinger" effect of Crumbl Tiramisu Cookies.
Frost & Dust
Whip the mascarpone, heavy cream, and sugar to stiff peaks. Pipe a swirl onto the completely cooled cookies and dust generously with cocoa powder.
Top Tip
The most critical step is the timing of the syrup brush.
Dust last → keeps cocoa dry → looks professional
Brush while warm → absorbs syrup better → mimics soaked cake
Don't oversaturate → prevents sogginess → cookies stay sturdy
Chill the dough → controls spreading → creates thick cookies
Use cold mascarpone → stabilizes frosting → holds shape better
Follow Aliana on Pinterest →Variations
For an alcohol-free version, simply replace the Kahlua with extra espresso or a drop of rum extract. You can also make Latte Cookies by skipping the cocoa dusting and drizzling a simple milk glaze on top instead. If you prefer a crunchier base, bake the cookies for an extra 2 minutes.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Because of the dairy in the mascarpone frosting, these cookies must be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container. They stay fresh for up to 3 days. Let them sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before eating to soften the butter and cheese for the best Tiramisu Flavors experience.
Best Pairings for Tiramisu Cookies
Naturally, these Tiramisu Cookies On A Plate belong next to a hot cup of espresso or a frothy cappuccino. They are also delicious with a glass of cold milk, which balances the rich coffee notes. For an evening treat, serve them alongside a small glass of dessert wine or amaretto.
Common Questions About Tiramisu Cookies
Can I freeze these cookies?
You can freeze the baked, unfrosted cookies for up to 2 months. I recommend making the mascarpone frosting fresh when you are ready to serve.
Can I use cream cheese instead?
You can, but it will taste more like a mocha cheesecake cookie. Mascarpone has a milder, milkier flavor that is distinct to tiramisu.
Do I need strong coffee?
Yes, instant espresso powder works best. Regular instant coffee granules can be too weak to stand up against the sugar and butter.
Why is my frosting runny?
This usually happens if the heavy cream or cheese got too warm. Ensure both are fridge-cold before whipping, and stop as soon as stiff peaks form.
More Recipes You'll Love
If you love these Dessert Tiramisu Cookies, try these other Unique Cookie Recipes inspired treats.
Made it your way? I'd love to see it! Tag @AlianaRecipes on Pinterest and show off your delicious version.
Tiramisu Cookies with Mascarpone Frosting
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cream the butter and sugars together until the mixture is pale and fluffy.
- Mix in the egg, egg white, and vanilla extract until fully combined and smooth.
- Whisk the dry ingredients in a separate bowl and gradually stir them into the wet mixture.
- Dissolve espresso powder in hot water and drizzle it into the dough, mixing until uniform.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes, then scoop onto baking sheets and flatten slightly.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 9-10 minutes until the edges turn light golden brown.
- Brush warm cookies with the espresso-Kahlua syrup and let them cool completely.
- Whip mascarpone, cream, sugar, and Kahlua to stiff peaks, then pipe onto cooled cookies and dust with cocoa.
Nutrition
Notes
Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with Tiramisu Cookies Recipe:
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