Tiramisu cookies bring the delightful flavor of the classic Italian dessert into a handheld treat that’s perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own. With their rich coffee flavors and creamy textures, these cookies offer a new twist that pleases both cookie lovers and tiramisu fans alike. Making these treats can be an enjoyable challenge, perfect for an afternoon in the kitchen or as a special addition to any gathering.
Why We Love This Tiramisu Cookies
Tiramisu cookies combine the best of both worlds; they capture the essence of traditional tiramisu while maintaining the comforting structure of a cookie. The soft, pillowy texture of each bite feels luxurious, reminiscent of the classic dessert without the need for a fork. The coffee brings a warm, earthy flavor, while the layers of mascarpone create that signature richness. These cookies are versatile and can easily transition from a cozy coffee break at home to an elegant finish to a dinner party. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or after a day of resting, tiramisu cookies hold their charm and taste, making them a loved treat at any occasion.
Ingredients for Tiramisu Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon coffee liqueur (optional)
- Cocoa powder for dusting
- Chocolate shavings for garnish
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Pour in the cooled brewed coffee and mix gently until the dough is smooth.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges are set, but the centers remain soft.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.
- In a medium bowl, beat together the mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and optional coffee liqueur until smooth.
- Once the cookies are cool, spread a dollop of the mascarpone mixture on half of the cookies and top them with another cookie to create a sandwich.
- Dust the tops with cocoa powder and garnish with chocolate shavings before serving.
How to Serve Tiramisu Cookies
Serving tiramisu cookies is as enjoyable as making them. You can present these delightful treats on a decorative plate or arrange them in a clear jar for a charming display. To elevate the experience, pair the cookies with a hot beverage like coffee or tea for a cozy treat. For a more formal setting, arrange them on a dessert table alongside other sweet offerings and consider providing small plates or napkins for easy access. If you like, you can also serve the cookies with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to add an extra layer of flavor and contrast. Encourage your guests to enjoy them in bites, savoring each mouthful of the creamy mascarpone filling against the rich chocolatey exterior.
Expert Tips for Tiramisu Cookies
Creating perfect tiramisu cookies takes attention to detail and a few expert tips. First, ensure your butter is at room temperature; this will help it cream more easily with the sugars and produce a lighter cookie. When measuring flour and cocoa powder, avoid packing them into the measuring cup, as this can lead to dry cookies. Instead, fluff them first with a fork and spoon them into the cup before leveling them off. For a more intense coffee flavor, consider using espresso instead of standard brewed coffee. If the cookies are too soft after baking, allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to the wire rack. This extra time lets the cookies firm up a little more. Lastly, don’t skip the dusting of cocoa powder before serving — it adds a finishing touch for both flavor and appearance.
How to Store Tiramisu Cookies
To store tiramisu cookies, allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can last at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, consider refrigerating them. Just be aware that the cookies might become slightly firmer when chilled. For optimal freshness, use parchment paper between layers in your container to prevent sticking. If you have leftover filling, store that separately in the refrigerator for up to three days and use it to refresh the cookies or create new sandwiches as needed. It’s possible to freeze the cookies for up to three months; just ensure they are well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them at room temperature.
Variations of Tiramisu Cookies
Tiramisu cookies offer a perfect base for creativity. You can add various flavor elements or change up some ingredients to suit your taste. For a nutty crunch, consider folding in chopped hazelnuts or almonds into the cookie dough. If you prefer a lighter texture, you might exchange half of the all-purpose flour for almond flour, which can give a unique flavor profile. Different extracts, like hazelnut or almond, can replace the vanilla for an interesting twist. If you enjoy fruits, adding a layer of fruit preserves between the cookie sandwiches can infuse a delightful tartness that balances the cookie’s sweetness. Lastly, you could take inspiration from other desserts by drizzling caramel or chocolate sauce over the finished cookies, creating an alluring look and taste that entices anyone who sees them.
FAQ about Tiramisu Cookies
What makes these tiramisu cookies different from regular cookies? The key difference lies in the unique blend of flavors and textures reminiscent of classic tiramisu. They have a soft, cake-like texture filled with coffee richness and creamy mascarpone, setting them apart from standard cookie recipes.
Can I use decaf coffee in tiramisu cookies? Yes, you can definitely use decaffeinated coffee. This choice allows you to enjoy the flavor without the caffeine kick, making these cookies suitable for any time of the day.
How do I know when the tiramisu cookies are done baking? The cookies will be set around the edges but still soft in the center. If the edges appear firm and slightly cracked, it’s usually time to take them out of the oven as they will continue cooking while cooling.
Can I refrigerate the tiramisu cookies after they have been filled? It’s best to consume filled tiramisu cookies fresh. However, if you have leftovers, you should refrigerate them in an airtight container to preserve their freshness for a short time.
What can I use instead of mascarpone cheese? If you cannot find mascarpone cheese, cream cheese mixed with a bit of heavy cream can serve as a substitute, giving a similar creamy texture and taste profile.
Tiramisu Cookies
Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Ensure at room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour Avoid packing
- 1 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled Use espresso for a stronger flavor
For the Filling and Garnish
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon coffee liqueur (optional)
- Cocoa powder for dusting
- Chocolate shavings for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Pour in the cooled brewed coffee and mix gently until the dough is smooth.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart.
Baking
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges are set, but the centers remain soft.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.
Filling
- In a medium bowl, beat together the mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and optional coffee liqueur until smooth.
- Once the cookies are cool, spread a dollop of the mascarpone mixture on half of the cookies and top them with another cookie to create a sandwich.
- Dust the tops with cocoa powder and garnish with chocolate shavings before serving.
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