If you love the classic Italian dessert, tiramisu, then these Tiramisu Cookies are a must-try! This delightful twist combines the flavors of espresso, mascarpone, and cocoa into soft, chewy cookies that capture the essence of the beloved dessert. Perfect for coffee lovers, these cookies are easy to make and sure to impress at any gathering. Let’s dive into how you can recreate this delicious treat at home!

Ingredients Needed for Tiramisu Cookies

Cookies:

110 g (½ cup) butter
100 g (½ cup) granulated sugar
100 g (½ cup) brown sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
230 g (1¾ cups) all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
1 tablespoon instant espresso powder
½ teaspoon salt

Mascarpone Cream:

180 g (¾ cup) mascarpone cheese
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
90 g (¾ cup) confectioners sugar
20 g (1 tablespoon) agave or honey
120 g (½ cup) heavy cream
1 tablespoon cocoa powder for dusting

Step-by-Step Preparation of Tiramisu Cookies

Preparing the Cookie Dough

Melt the Butter: Start by melting the butter in the microwave or in a small saucepan over low-medium heat. Ensure the butter does not bubble, to retain its moisture. Pour the melted butter into a large mixing bowl and allow it to cool to room temperature in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes.
Combine the Sugars and Butter: Once the butter has cooled, add the granulated sugar and brown sugar to the bowl. Mix them together using a spatula or an electric mixer for about 1 minute until well combined and creamy.
Add the Wet Ingredients: Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract into the mixture. Continue mixing until everything is well combined and smooth.
Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, instant espresso powder, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently with a spatula until the dough is just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies soft and tender.
Shape the Cookies: Use a 2-tablespoon or 1.3-ounce cookie scoop to form 11 balls of dough. Roll each dough ball between your hands to smooth the surface, then place them on a tray lined with baking paper. Refrigerate the dough balls for 1 hour to set.

Baking the Cookies

Preheat the Oven: While the dough is chilling, preheat your oven to 180°C (355°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Bake the Cookies: Arrange 6 dough balls on the prepared baking tray, ensuring they are evenly spaced. Bake one tray at a time for 10-11 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. The cookies will still be soft when done, so let them cool on the tray for 3 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Creating the Perfect Mascarpone Cream

Whipping the Mascarpone Cream

Prepare the Cream Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine mascarpone cheese, vanilla extract, confectioners’ sugar, agave (or honey), and heavy cream. Use an electric mixer or a stand mixer with the whisk attachment to whip the ingredients together until the cream reaches stiff peaks and holds its shape.
Refrigerate if Needed: If you are not assembling the cookies immediately, cover the cream with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to use.

Piping and Garnishing the Cookies

Pipe the Cream: When ready to serve, transfer the mascarpone cream into a piping bag fitted with a piping tip (such as Wilton 2A). Pipe the cream onto the cooled cookies in a swirl pattern, starting from the center and moving outward.
Dust with Cocoa Powder: Finish by dusting the cookies with a light layer of cocoa powder using a fine mesh sieve for an elegant touch.

Expert Tips for Perfect Tiramisu Cookies

Ensure Butter is Properly Cooled: Melted butter should cool to room temperature to prevent the dough from becoming too runny.
Don’t Overmix the Dough: Stir just until the ingredients are combined to maintain a soft, chewy texture.
Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough is crucial to prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
Achieve Stiff Peaks for the Cream: Whip the mascarpone mixture until it reaches stiff peaks; this will help the cream hold its shape when piped.

Variations and Swaps for Tiramisu Cookies

Substitute the Espresso Powder: If you prefer a milder coffee flavor, replace instant espresso with instant coffee powder.
Experiment with Flavors: Add a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cookie dough for a different flavor profile.
Sweetener Options: Use maple syrup instead of agave or honey in the mascarpone cream for a different sweetness note.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Tiramisu Cookies

Overbaking the Cookies: Remove the cookies from the oven when the edges are just set; they will continue to firm up as they cool.
Not Whipping the Cream Enough: The mascarpone cream should reach stiff peaks to maintain its shape on the cookies. Whip longer if needed to achieve the right consistency.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

Serve Chilled or at Room Temperature: These cookies are delicious when served slightly chilled, which keeps the cream firm and the flavor vibrant.
Creative Plating: Arrange the cookies on a rustic wooden board or a fancy dessert platter. Garnish with a few coffee beans or chocolate shavings for added elegance.

Storing and Preserving Tiramisu Cookies

Refrigeration: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The mascarpone cream may soften over time, so enjoy them fresh if possible.
Freezing Tips: You can freeze the baked cookies without the cream for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, defrost and add fresh mascarpone cream and cocoa powder.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Tiramisu Cookies

How Long Do Tiramisu Cookies Last?
Stored properly in the refrigerator, these cookies will last up to 3 days.
Can I Make These Cookies Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the cookie dough ahead and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. The mascarpone cream can also be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge.

Conclusion

Ready to try these delectable Tiramisu Cookies? Give this recipe a go and indulge in the delightful fusion of coffee, cocoa, and creamy mascarpone. Share your cookie creations with us on social media, and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more mouthwatering recipes!