Name: Non-Alcohol Tiramisu Cookies
Prep time: 1 h 30 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 5 h 15 min
Yield: 24 Tiramisu Sandwich Cookies
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups (300 g) all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons cornstarch; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ¼ teaspoon baking soda; 1 tablespoon instant powder espresso (for dough); 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened; 1 ½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar; 1 large egg, room temperature; 1 teaspoon (5 ml) vanilla extract (for dough); 1 cup (240 ml) strong brewed coffee or espresso, cooled (for syrup); 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for syrup); 8 oz. (226 g) mascarpone cheese, cold; 1 ½ cups (180 g) powdered sugar, sifted (for cream); 2 teaspoons instant powder espresso (for cream); 1 teaspoon (5 ml) vanilla extract (for cream); 1 cup (237 ml) cold heavy whipping cream; 2 tablespoons (10 g) unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting

Tiramisu Cookies – what if I told you that you could capture all the intoxicating layers of the beloved Italian classic, Tiramisu, in a convenient, bite-sized form?

I’ve always been captivated by the elegance of traditional Tiramisu, with its delicate balance of strong espresso, creamy mascarpone, hints of cocoa, and the tender embrace of ladyfingers. But sometimes, you want that sophisticated flavor profile without the fuss of individual servings or the need for a spoon. That’s precisely where this incredible recipe shines! While classic Tiramisu boasts a charming, albeit sometimes debated, history rooted in Northern Italy, our journey today takes a delightful twist, transforming that timeless essence into something utterly new and exciting.

Why You’ll Adore These Tiramisu Cookies

People absolutely adore these creations because they offer the familiar, comforting taste of Tiramisu in an entirely new and portable package. Think soft, coffee-infused cookies, generously filled with a velvety mascarpone cream, and dusted with a rich cocoa powder – truly, every element of the original masterpiece is present and accounted for. They deliver that perfect blend of sweet and bitter, creamy and tender, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. Prepare to fall head over heels for these charming Tiramisu Cookies!

<h2>Ingredients:</h2>

<ul>
<li>For the Tiramisu Cookies Dough:
<ul>
<li>2 ½ cups (300g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled. Using the correct measuring technique prevents dense cookies!</li>
<li>1 teaspoon baking powder. This helps our cookies achieve a lovely soft lift.</li>
<li>½ teaspoon salt. A touch of salt always balances the sweetness.</li>
<li>1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature. This is crucial for a smooth, creamy dough. If it’s too cold, it won’t cream properly; if it’s melted, your cookies will spread too much!</li>
<li>¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar. For that perfect cookie sweetness and texture.</li>
<li>½ cup (100g) packed light brown sugar. Adds moisture and a lovely caramel note, enhancing the depth of our Tiramisu Cookies.</li>
<li>2 large eggs, at room temperature. Room temperature eggs emulsify better with the butter and sugar.</li>
<li>1 teaspoon vanilla extract. A must-have for almost any cookie recipe!</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>For the Coffee Syrup:
<ul>
<li>1 cup (240ml) strong brewed coffee or espresso, cooled. The heart of the Tiramisu flavor! Use good quality coffee for the best results.</li>
<li>2 tablespoons granulated sugar. To slightly sweeten the coffee dip.</li>
<li>1-2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa), dark rum, or brandy, optional. This really elevates the authentic tiramisu taste, but feel free to omit for an alcohol-free version.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>For the Mascarpone Cream:
<ul>
<li>8 ounces (226g) mascarpone cheese, softened slightly at room temperature. Make sure it’s not too cold or it will be hard to combine without lumps.</li>
<li>1 cup (240ml) heavy cream, very cold. Cold cream whips up beautifully and holds its shape much better.</li>
<li>½ cup (60g) powdered sugar, sifted. Sifting prevents lumps in your smooth cream.</li>
<li>1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Essential for that classic tiramisu flavor profile.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>For Garnish:
<ul>
<li>2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting. The final touch that makes these Tiramisu Cookies visually stunning and adds a hint of bitterness.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>

<h3>Part 1: Preparing the Tiramisu Cookies Dough</h3>

<ol>
<li>Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Make sure these are thoroughly combined. Even distribution of leavening agents is key for consistent cookie texture. Set this bowl aside for now.</li>
<li>Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, using an electric mixer (either a stand mixer with the paddle attachment or a handheld mixer), beat the softened unsalted butter on medium speed for about 1 minute until it’s light and fluffy. Gradually add the granulated sugar and light brown sugar, beating for another 2-3 minutes until the mixture is truly light in color and fluffy in texture. This creaming process incorporates air into the butter, which will give our Tiramisu Cookies a tender crumb. Remember to scrape down the sides of the bowl occasionally to ensure everything is well combined.</li>
<li>Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the first room temperature egg until it’s just combined, then add the second egg and beat again until fully incorporated. Follow with the vanilla extract, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix at this stage, as overmixing can lead to tougher cookies.</li>
<li>Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Stop mixing as soon as no streaks of flour remain. Overmixing flour develops gluten, which can make your Tiramisu Cookies tough and chewy instead of tender and soft.</li>
<li>Chill the Dough: Gently gather the dough into a ball, flatten it slightly into a disc, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours. Chilling is a crucial step! It helps the flavors meld, prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking, and makes the dough much easier to handle. It ensures our Tiramisu Cookies hold their shape beautifully.</li>
</ol>

<h3>Part 2: Preparing the Coffee Syrup and Mascarpone Cream</h3>

<ol start=”6″>
<li>Make the Coffee Syrup: In a shallow bowl or wide dish, combine the strong brewed coffee (or espresso), granulated sugar, and the optional coffee liqueur, rum, or brandy. Stir well until the sugar is completely dissolved. Taste and adjust sweetness or liqueur content if desired. This is the liquid gold that will infuse our Tiramisu Cookies with that iconic coffee flavor. Set aside.</li>
<li>Prepare the Mascarpone Base: In a medium bowl, gently whisk the slightly softened mascarpone cheese with 2 tablespoons of the sifted powdered sugar and the vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Don’t overmix the mascarpone, as it can separate and become grainy. Just enough to combine and smooth it out.</li>
<li>Whip the Heavy Cream: In a separate, very cold bowl (you can chill the bowl and whisk attachments in the freezer for 10-15 minutes beforehand for best results), combine the very cold heavy cream with the remaining sifted powdered sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. Stiff peaks mean that when you lift the whisk, the cream holds its shape firmly. This airy cream is vital for the light texture of our Tiramisu Cookies’ filling.</li>
<li>Combine for Mascarpone Cream: Gently fold about one-third of the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture to lighten it. Then, carefully fold in the remaining whipped cream until just combined and no streaks remain. Use a gentle hand to maintain the airiness of the whipped cream. This mascarpone cream is what makes our Tiramisu Cookies truly special! Cover and refrigerate until ready to use. It needs to be chilled to set properly.</li>
</ol>

<h3>Part 3: Baking the Tiramisu Cookies</h3>

<ol start=”10″>
<li>Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Sheets: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This prevents sticking and helps the cookies bake evenly.</li>
<li>Shape the Cookies: Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator. Using a small cookie scoop (about 1.5 tablespoons) or by hand, roll the dough into small balls, approximately 1 inch in diameter. Uniform size ensures uniform baking. Place the cookie dough balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.</li>
<li>Bake: Bake for 9-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are just set. Keep a close eye on them, as baking times can vary slightly depending on your oven. You want them soft and slightly underbaked for the best texture when combined with the coffee and cream to form our delicious Tiramisu Cookies.</li>
<li>Cool: Once baked, remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheets for about 5 minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. It’s absolutely essential that the cookies are completely cool before assembling; otherwise, the mascarpone cream will melt!</li>
</ol>

<h3>Part 4: Assembling the Tiramisu Cookies</h3>

<ol start=”14″>
<li>Dip the Cookies: Take one cooled cookie and quickly dip one flat side into the prepared coffee syrup. Just a quick dip! You don’t want to soak them, or they’ll become soggy. The goal is to infuse flavor, not to drown the cookie. This step is what truly transforms them into Tiramisu Cookies! Repeat with another cookie.</li>
<li>Apply the Mascarpone Cream: Spread or pipe a generous dollop (about 1-2 tablespoons) of the chilled mascarpone cream onto the flat, undipped side of one coffee-dipped cookie. If you’re feeling fancy, pipe the cream using a pastry bag fitted with a round or star tip for a beautiful finish. Otherwise, a small offset spatula or even a butter knife works perfectly well.</li>
<li>Form the Sandwich: Gently place the other coffee-dipped cookie on top, flat side down, to form a sandwich. Press very lightly so the cream spreads to the edges but doesn’t ooze out excessively. Repeat this process for all the remaining cookies and cream until you have a tray full of delightful Tiramisu Cookies.</li>
<li>Dust with Cocoa: Once all your Tiramisu Cookies are assembled, place them on a clean wire rack or parchment-lined tray. Lightly dust the tops of each assembled cookie with unsweetened cocoa powder using a fine-mesh sieve. This adds that characteristic finishing touch and a slight bitterness that perfectly contrasts with the sweet cream and coffee. Don’t be shy with the cocoa – it’s part of the authentic tiramisu experience!</li>
</ol>

<h3>Part 5: Chilling and Serving Your Tiramisu Cookies</h3>

<ol start=”18″>
<li>Chill Before Serving: For the best flavor and texture, refrigerate the assembled Tiramisu Cookies for at least 2-4 hours, or ideally overnight, before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, the cookies to soften slightly from the coffee syrup, and the cream to firm up, creating that irresistible Tiramisu Cookies experience.</li>
<li>Storage: Store any leftover Tiramisu Cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. While they are best enjoyed within the first day or two, they will remain delicious for several days, making them perfect for preparing ahead of time for gatherings or a sweet treat throughout the week.</li>
<li>Serving Suggestion: While these Tiramisu Cookies are fantastic on their own, they pair wonderfully with a fresh cup of coffee or an espresso. Their elegant presentation also makes them a perfect dessert for dinner parties or special occasions. The combination of the soft coffee-infused cookie, the rich, velvety mascarpone cream, and the hint of bitter cocoa creates a truly unforgettable bite. Each cookie delivers the classic tiramisu taste in a convenient, handheld form, making them an instant favorite.</li>
</ol>
<h4>A Little Tip for Perfection:</h4>
If you find your cookie dough is a bit sticky after chilling, you can lightly flour your hands when rolling the balls. Just remember, a little flour goes a long way to avoid toughening the dough. For the mascarpone cream, ensure all your dairy components are very cold before whipping the cream, and the mascarpone is just slightly softened. This temperature difference helps achieve a wonderfully stable and fluffy cream that holds up beautifully in these exquisite Tiramisu Cookies. Enjoy the process, and savor every moment of making (and eating!) these delightful treats!
<h5>Why Tiramisu Cookies are a Game Changer:</h5>
These aren’t just any cookies; they’re a miniature, handheld celebration of the classic Italian dessert. They capture all the complex layers of flavor – the robust coffee, the creamy mascarpone, and the subtle cocoa bitterness – in a wonderfully convenient package. They offer the nostalgic comfort of a cookie combined with the sophisticated taste of tiramisu, making them a truly unique and irresistible treat. Whether you’re a tiramisu aficionado or simply looking for an impressive dessert, these Tiramisu Cookies are sure to delight.

Conclusion:

And so, we arrive at the grand finale of our culinary journey together. I truly hope you’ve enjoyed exploring this recipe as much as I’ve enjoyed perfecting it and sharing it with you. At its heart, this isn’t just another cookie recipe; it’s an invitation to experience a beloved classic dessert in an entirely new, incredibly convenient, and utterly delightful format. When I set out to create these, my goal was to capture the sophisticated, layered flavors of a traditional tiramisu – the rich coffee, the delicate creaminess, the hint of cocoa, and that unmistakable boozy kick – and translate them into a bite-sized, handheld treat. I can confidently say, with every fiber of my being, that we’ve achieved just that, and more!

Why these Tiramisu Cookies are an absolute must-try? Because they masterfully bridge the gap between effort and indulgence. Imagine the deep, aromatic embrace of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, now reimagined into a tender, buttery cookie. Picture the delicate, airy mascarpone cream, transformed into a luscious, sweet frosting that crowns each cookie with a cloud of pure bliss. And then, there’s that dusting of cocoa powder, the final flourish that adds both visual appeal and a gentle bittersweet counterpoint, echoing the true spirit of tiramisu. They are sophisticated enough to impress at any dinner party or special occasion, yet comforting enough to be your perfect companion for a quiet afternoon coffee break. They offer all the complex flavors of a labor-intensive dessert with the casual ease of a homemade cookie. It’s a revelation, a perfect symphony of textures and tastes that will surprise and delight every palate.

Now, let’s talk about enhancing your experience even further. These cookies are incredibly versatile, making them a fantastic addition to almost any moment. For serving, I personally adore them slightly chilled, allowing the frosting to firm up just a touch and creating a wonderful contrast with the tender cookie base. They are, of course, a quintessential accompaniment to a strong espresso or a creamy latte, transforming your coffee ritual into an extraordinary affair. But don’t stop there! Consider serving them alongside a glass of sweet dessert wine, like a Vin Santo or a Moscato d’Asti, which beautifully complements their rich, coffee-infused profile. For a truly decadent experience, pair them with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. They also make an incredibly thoughtful and beautiful homemade gift – just arrange a few in a pretty box with a ribbon, and you’ve got a present that speaks volumes about your care and culinary prowess.

Elevate Your Tiramisu Cookie Experience with These Variations:

Feeling adventurous? While the classic recipe is divine, there are always ways to personalize your batch. For an extra kick, a splash of dark rum or Kahlua can be added to the espresso soak alongside the Marsala, deepening the boozy notes. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of liqueur or even omit it entirely for an alcohol-free version, letting the coffee and vanilla shine through. For the topping, experiment with different types of chocolate shavings – dark, milk, or even white chocolate – for varying degrees of sweetness and intensity. You could also finely chop roasted hazelnuts and sprinkle them over the cocoa powder for an added nutty crunch and a subtle texture contrast. Another delightful variation involves infusing the mascarpone frosting with a hint of orange zest, which adds a bright, citrusy lift that beautifully cuts through the richness and adds another layer of complexity to these already incredible treats.

So, my friends, the stage is set, the recipe is laid out before you, and all that’s left is for you to embark on this delicious adventure. I wholeheartedly encourage you to roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and give these incredible Tiramisu Cookies a try. I promise you, the joy of baking them, the intoxicating aroma that will fill your kitchen, and most importantly, the sheer delight of tasting your homemade creation will be incredibly rewarding. Don’t be shy; embrace the process, savor the moments, and let your inner pastry chef shine! Once you’ve had a chance to bake and taste these beauties, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you make any fun variations? What was your favorite part? How did your family and friends react? Please feel free to share your thoughts, your photos, and your triumphs in the comments below. Your feedback and stories truly inspire me and help this wonderful community of home bakers grow. Happy baking, and enjoy every single delightful bite!