Tiramisu Cookies

These Tiramisu Cookies bring a delicious twist to the classic Italian dessert. With espresso-infused dough, a creamy mascarpone topping, and a dusting of cocoa powder, these soft, chewy cookies are a perfect blend of the rich flavors of tiramisu in an easy-to-enjoy form. They make for a decadent treat that will wow your guests or satisfy your cravings for a little indulgence.

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter

  • 1 ½ tbsp espresso powder

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

  • ¼ tsp baking soda

  • 1 tsp baking powder

  • 1 tsp cornstarch

  • ¼ tsp salt

  • 1 ½ cups sugar

  • 1 egg (room temperature)

  • 2 tsp vanilla extract or paste

  • 2 tbsp whole milk

For the Espresso Mascarpone Cream:

  • 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream

  • 8 oz mascarpone cheese

  • 1 ½ tsp espresso powder

  • 2 cups confectioner’s sugar

  • 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract or paste

  • ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)

Directions

  1. Prepare the Cookies:
    In a medium saucepan, brown the butter over medium heat. Once the butter bubbles, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it brown for about 5-8 minutes. Let the browned butter cool in the fridge for 15 minutes.
    Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, cornstarch, and salt.
    Add the espresso powder to the cooled butter and whisk to combine. Then add the sugar, egg, and vanilla, whisking until smooth. Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing with a spatula. Once the dough comes together, add the milk and combine.
    Scoop 3-4 tbsp of dough for each cookie and place them 1 ½ inches apart on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Gently flatten each cookie with your hand. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on a wire rack.

  2. Prepare the Espresso Mascarpone Cream:
    Whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks using an electric mixer. In a separate bowl, whisk together mascarpone cheese, espresso powder, confectioner’s sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
    Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until smooth and well combined.

  3. Assemble the Cookies:
    Transfer the mascarpone cream to a piping bag fitted with a circle tip. Pipe the cream onto the cooled cookies. Dust with cocoa powder for a final touch.

Nutrients

  • Calories: 200 kcal

  • Carbohydrates: 24g

  • Protein: 2g

  • Fat: 12g

  • Saturated Fat: 7g

  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g

  • Monounsaturated Fat: 3g

  • Trans Fat: 0g

  • Cholesterol: 35mg

  • Sodium: 125mg

  • Potassium: 95mg

  • Fiber: 1g

  • Sugar: 16g

  • Vitamin A: 255 IU

  • Calcium: 50mg

Espresso-Infused Dough: The Heart of the Tiramisu Flavor

The first element that sets these Tiramisu Cookies apart from traditional cookies is the espresso-infused dough. Espresso powder is added directly to the cookie dough, giving each bite a robust coffee flavor that immediately brings to mind the signature taste of tiramisu. The depth of flavor that espresso adds to the dough complements the sweetness of the sugar and the richness of the browned butter, creating a base that is both aromatic and indulgent.

By browning the butter before incorporating it into the dough, a nutty, caramelized flavor is introduced, enhancing the overall depth of the cookie. The browned butter provides a layer of richness that mimics the creamy texture of mascarpone cheese in traditional tiramisu. As the dough bakes, the espresso and butter flavors meld together, offering a cookie that is fragrant, flavorful, and perfectly balanced with its sweet components.

The Espresso Mascarpone Cream: A Rich and Creamy Topping

No tiramisu-inspired treat would be complete without the iconic mascarpone cheese filling. In this recipe, mascarpone cheese is paired with espresso powder and whipped cream to create a light yet decadent cream that is piped onto the cookies. This mascarpone cream mimics the luscious texture of the traditional tiramisu filling, offering the same creamy richness that defines the dessert.

The heavy whipping cream is whipped to stiff peaks before being folded into the mascarpone mixture, ensuring a light and airy texture that contrasts beautifully with the dense, chewy cookie base. The espresso powder in the cream mirrors the flavor of the coffee-soaked ladyfingers in tiramisu, tying the flavors of the cream and cookie together in perfect harmony. The addition of vanilla extract enhances the overall sweetness and fragrance of the cream, ensuring that the topping is as delicious as it is beautiful.

A Beautiful and Elegant Presentation

The final touch that makes Tiramisu Cookies truly special is their presentation. After the cookies are baked and cooled, they are topped with the rich mascarpone cream and a light dusting of cocoa powder. The cocoa powder not only enhances the flavor but also gives the cookies a sophisticated finish that mirrors the appearance of a classic tiramisu. The soft, creamy topping and the slight bitterness of the cocoa provide a balanced flavor profile that is both rich and refreshing.

For an added touch of elegance, you can also decorate the cookies with a few chocolate shavings or a small drizzle of melted chocolate. This extra embellishment can elevate the look of the cookies, making them perfect for special occasions like dinner parties, holidays, or celebrations. Whether you choose to leave them simple or add additional garnishes, Tiramisu Cookies are visually stunning and will surely impress anyone who bites into one.

The Appeal of Tiramisu Cookies: A Handheld Dessert

One of the most appealing aspects of these Tiramisu Cookies is their portability. Traditional tiramisu is often served as a layered dessert, which can be messy and difficult to transport. These cookies, however, take all the flavors of tiramisu and package them into a convenient, easy-to-eat form. Whether you’re on the go or simply looking for a quick treat with your coffee, these cookies offer a more practical way to enjoy tiramisu flavors without sacrificing taste.

Additionally, the individual portion size of the cookies makes them perfect for sharing. They can easily be divided among guests at a party or enjoyed by individuals as a personal treat. Their bite-sized nature makes them a fun and interactive dessert option, perfect for casual gatherings or as a sweet addition to a coffee break.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Tiramisu Cookies

While Tiramisu Cookies are delicious on their own, they can also be paired with a variety of beverages to enhance the experience. A hot cup of espresso or a rich cappuccino is the perfect complement to the coffee flavors in the cookies. The bitterness of the coffee pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the mascarpone cream and the soft texture of the cookies.

If you’re serving the cookies for a dessert course at a dinner party, consider pairing them with a dessert wine like a sweet Moscato or a glass of iced coffee for an extra indulgent treat. The combination of coffee and dessert is a classic for a reason, and Tiramisu Cookies provide an easy and delicious way to enjoy this pairing.

For a lighter option, you could also serve these cookies with a fresh fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The fruity freshness or creamy texture would create a delightful contrast to the richness of the cookies, rounding out the dessert experience.

Tiramisu Cookies for Any Occasion

Tiramisu Cookies are a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed for a variety of occasions. Their rich flavor makes them an excellent choice for holiday gatherings, birthday parties, or any special event where you want to impress your guests with something a little different. Whether you’re celebrating with friends and family or simply treating yourself, these cookies offer the perfect balance of indulgence and flavor.

Not only are they great for parties, but they also make for an excellent homemade gift. Packaged in a beautiful box or tin, these cookies are a thoughtful and delicious gift for birthdays, holidays, or as a simple gesture of appreciation. The combination of familiar flavors and a creative twist makes them a gift that is both meaningful and tasty.

Conclusion: A Sweet and Sophisticated Treat

In conclusion, Tiramisu Cookies are a delightful and creative twist on the classic Italian dessert. By combining espresso-infused dough with a creamy mascarpone topping and a dusting of cocoa powder, these cookies bring all the rich flavors of tiramisu into an easy-to-enjoy form. The chewy, flavorful cookie base pairs perfectly with the light and creamy mascarpone cream, creating a dessert that is both decadent and balanced.

These cookies are perfect for a variety of occasions, from casual coffee breaks to formal dinner parties. Their portability, ease of preparation, and impressive flavor profile make them a must-try treat for anyone who loves the rich flavors of tiramisu but wants a more convenient and portable option. Whether served as a dessert or as a sweet snack, Tiramisu Cookies are sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire, impressing both guests and family alike with their delicious flavor and elegant presentation.

Leave a Comment