Tiramisu Cookies Recipe
If you have a love for the classic Italian dessert but want something a little more portable and fun, this Tiramisu Cookies Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Imagine the luscious creaminess of mascarpone cheese blended right into soft, chewy cookies that boast a delightful espresso kick and a kiss of cocoa powder on top. These cookies combine the best dessert flavors you’ve been craving in a hand-held treat that’s perfect for sharing, gifting, or savoring with your afternoon coffee.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to nailing these delicious cookies. Each component plays a starring role, contributing to the rich texture, aromatic coffee flavor, and irresistible sweetness that defines this recipe.
- All-purpose flour: The sturdy base for our cookies providing structure and a tender crumb.
- Baking powder: Adds the lightness and lift so the cookies bake up soft and fluffy.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- Unsalted butter: Softened for creaminess, it brings richness and moisture to the dough.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens while helping to create that slight crisp edge.
- Brown sugar: Adds a deeper caramel note and chewier texture.
- Large egg: Binds ingredients and adds tenderness.
- Vanilla extract: A fragrant background note that complements the espresso perfectly.
- Instant espresso powder: Dissolved in hot water, it infuses the cookies with real coffee flavor.
- Mascarpone cheese: The secret to creamy softness and that signature tiramisu feel.
- Mini chocolate chips: Little pockets of melty chocolate that add richness and surprise.
- Cocoa powder: For dusting, giving that classic tiramisu look and a touch of bittersweet depth.
How to Make Tiramisu Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
Start by whisking together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. This ensures everything is evenly distributed and ready to be combined with the wet ingredients for a perfectly balanced dough.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with both granulated and brown sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This important step traps air, helping your cookies stay tender and soft as they bake.
Step 3: Add the Egg, Vanilla, and Espresso
Mix in the large egg, vanilla extract, and the dissolved espresso powder. The espresso instantly lifts this cookie to another level, delivering that unmistakable coffee essence that tiramisu fans adore.
Step 4: Incorporate Mascarpone Cheese
Beat in the mascarpone cheese until fully incorporated. Don’t rush here, as mascarpone is what creates that luxurious, creamy texture that sets these cookies apart from your average chocolate chip cookie.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Overmixing can make cookies tough, so take care to mix just enough.
Step 6: Fold in Mini Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips, ensuring even distribution without deflating the dough. These bites of chocolate complement the espresso and mascarpone beautifully.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced a couple of inches apart. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 12 minutes, until edges are lightly golden and centers are set but still soft.
Step 8: Cool and Dust with Cocoa Powder
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust generously with cocoa powder to achieve that final tiramisu-inspired touch.
How to Serve Tiramisu Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of cocoa powder on top always steals the show, mirroring the classic tiramisu look. For extra flair, you might try a light drizzle of melted dark chocolate or even a sprinkle of finely grated dark chocolate shavings for added texture and appeal.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair beautifully with a steaming cup of espresso, cappuccino, or even a creamy latte. If you want to elevate your dessert spread, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla gelato or a dollop of whipped cream to complement the mascarpone’s creaminess.
Creative Ways to Present
Imagine serving these cookies stacked on a vintage plate tied with a rustic ribbon for an elegant gift. Or place them in a clear jar layered with coffee beans for a charming coffee-themed party favor. Their portable size also makes them a perfect addition to an afternoon tea tray or a festive cookie platter.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the mascarpone fresh and maintain that soft, creamy texture reminiscent of traditional tiramisu. They can last about 5 days when properly stored, making them a great make-ahead treat.
Freezing
If you want to keep these gems longer, freeze the baked cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before serving, and consider a fresh dusting of cocoa powder to refresh their beautiful appearance.
Reheating
For the best experience, warm the cookies briefly in a low oven or microwave for about 10 seconds to slightly soften the mascarpone and melt the chocolate chips. Avoid over-heating, which can alter the texture unfavorably.
FAQs
Can I use regular coffee instead of espresso powder?
While instant espresso powder delivers a concentrated coffee flavor, you can substitute brewed espresso or strong coffee, though it may slightly affect the dough’s consistency. Adjust other liquids accordingly and reduce water if adding brewed coffee.
Is it necessary to use mascarpone cheese?
Mascarpone is crucial for achieving the creamy texture that echoes tiramisu’s signature. However, if you cannot find it, a mixture of cream cheese and a bit of heavy cream is a workable substitution, though the flavor will be less authentic.
Can I make these cookies vegan?
Transforming this recipe into a vegan version would require replacing butter with plant-based margarine, egg with a flax or chia seed egg, and using a dairy-free mascarpone alternative. The texture may differ, but it’s a fun experiment for vegan bakers.
How strong is the coffee flavor in the Tiramisu Cookies Recipe?
The espresso powder provides a gentle yet distinct coffee taste that complements the sweet and creamy notes. If you prefer a more intense coffee flavor, feel free to increase the powder slightly, but be cautious not to overpower the other flavors.
Can I use regular-sized chocolate chips?
Mini chocolate chips are recommended for even distribution and to avoid overpowering the delicate cookie dough. Using regular-sized chips is fine, but you might want to chop them into smaller pieces for a similar effect.
Final Thoughts
This Tiramisu Cookies Recipe turns a beloved dessert into a fresh, delightful cookie experience that’s sure to become a new favorite in your baking repertoire. Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing guests, these cookies bring the magic of tiramisu in a fun, easy-to-share bite. Give them a try—you won’t regret it!
Print
Tiramisu Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Tiramisu Cookies bring the beloved Italian dessert to your cookie jar with a perfect blend of espresso, mascarpone, and chocolate chips. Soft and chewy with a dusting of cocoa powder, they offer a delightful coffee-infused treat that’s easy to bake and perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder, dissolved in 1 tablespoon hot water
- ½ cup mascarpone cheese
Mix-ins and Topping
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder (for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to ensure even distribution of leavening and seasoning.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, use a mixer to cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes. This adds air for a tender texture.
- Add Flavorings and Egg: Incorporate the egg, vanilla extract, and the dissolved espresso powder mixture into the butter-sugar blend. Mix well until the batter is smooth and uniform.
- Incorporate Mascarpone: Beat the mascarpone cheese into the mixture until fully combined, adding creaminess and tangy flavor reminiscent of tiramisu.
- Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the dough, which can lead to tough cookies.
- Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Scoop and Bake: Using a tablespoon, scoop portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden and centers are set.
- Cool and Dust: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust the tops with cocoa powder for that classic tiramisu touch.
Notes
- For a stronger coffee flavor, increase the instant espresso powder slightly to your preference.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a soft, chilled texture that mimics the creamy tiramisu dessert.
- These cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee or espresso, enhancing their rich coffee flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
