Ultimate Tiramisu Cookies Recipe

Sometimes I crave the rich coffee and cream flavors of a fancy Italian dessert but want something I can hold in my hand. These Tiramisu Cookies bridge the gap between a soft sugar cookie and that classic layered treat perfectly.

The espresso-infused dough pairs beautifully with the whipped mascarpone frosting for a truly decadent bite. It feels like enjoying a slice of cake at a cafe, but right from the comfort of my own kitchen.

What Makes This Tiramisu Cookies a Keeper

If you love coffee desserts, this recipe delivers that bold espresso kick without being overpowering. The addition of cornstarch keeps the texture incredibly soft and chewy rather than crunchy.

There is no need for complicated layering or overnight soaking like the traditional dessert requires. You get all those sophisticated flavors of cocoa, coffee, and cream in a fraction of the time.

This recipe is also a crowd-pleaser that looks elegant enough for dinner parties but is simple enough for a weekday treat. Watching the cocoa powder settle on the fluffy frosting is satisfying every single time.

If you enjoyed this sophisticated treat, you will definitely want to try my Savory Chocolate Crinkle Cookies Recipe for another rich flavor profile. For something with a fruity twist, the The Best Cranberry Cornmeal Linzer Cookies are equally impressive on a dessert platter.

Everything You Need for Perfect Tiramisu Cookies

Here are the pantry staples and fresh items you need to gather:

• All-purpose flour: The base of the cookie structure that provides stability.
• Cornstarch: Keeps the cookies soft and prevents them from spreading too much.
• Espresso powder: Adds the signature coffee flavor to the dough.
• Baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and puff up just enough.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the coffee notes.
• Unsalted butter: Use softened butter to cream properly with the sugar.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cookie base.
• Egg: Binds the dough together and adds richness.
• Vanilla bean paste: Provides a deeper vanilla flavor than extract, though extract works too.
• Mascarpone cheese: The key ingredient for that authentic tiramisu frosting taste.
• Cream cheese: Adds stability and tang to the frosting mixture.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting without adding grit.
• Heavy cream: Whipped into the cheese mixture for a light, airy texture.
• Kahlua: An optional addition for an extra kick of coffee liqueur flavor.
• Dark cocoa powder: Used for dusting the tops to finish the look.

My Method for Perfect Tiramisu Cookies

Let’s get baking so you can enjoy these treats soon:

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, espresso powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. Using a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar on medium speed for about 3 minutes until light and fluffy. Scrape down the bowl, then mix in the egg and vanilla bean paste on low speed until combined.
3. Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients while the mixer runs on low speed. Mix only until the dough comes together to avoid overworking the gluten.
4. Scoop portions of dough using a 1 1/2 tablespoon scoop and roll them into neat balls. Place them 2 inches apart on the baking sheets and bake for 9 to 10 minutes until the edges are golden and tops are dry.
5. Allow the Tiramisu Cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before moving them to a wire rack to cool completely. While they cool, beat the mascarpone, cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt in a mixer until creamy.
6. Drizzle the cold heavy cream into the cheese mixture while beating on medium-low speed. Once incorporated, increase speed to medium and whip until stiff peaks form, then stir in the Kahlua if using.
7. Transfer the frosting to a piping bag with a round tip and pipe a spiral onto each cooled cookie. Finish by dusting generously with dark cocoa powder using a small sieve.

My Best Tips for Perfect Tiramisu Cookies

Make sure your butter and cheeses are at room temperature before you start mixing to ensure a smooth dough and frosting. Cold ingredients can cause lumps that make the Tiramisu Cookies texture less desirable.

Use a kitchen scale to measure your flour if possible, or fluff and spoon it into the cup to avoid dense cookies. Weighing ingredients is the secret weapon for consistent results in baking.

Wait until the cookies are completely cool before attempting to pipe the mascarpone frosting on top. If the base is even slightly warm, your beautiful frosting will melt and slide right off.

Best Ways to Enjoy Tiramisu Cookies

These cookies taste best when served immediately after frosting while the cocoa powder is fresh. I love pairing them with a hot cup of espresso or a cold glass of milk to balance the richness.

If you are serving them for a party, arrange them on a white platter to let the dark cocoa dusting really pop. They make a stunning centerpiece for any dessert table during the holidays.