Tiramisu Cookies

If you love the flavours of a classic tiramisu but don’t want the hassle of assembling the traditional dessert, these Tiramisu Cookies are the perfect solution. Soft and chewy espresso-kissed cookies are topped with a light mascarpone cream and finished with a dusting of cocoa powder for that signature tiramisu flavour in every bite.

As always, it’s an easy recipe you’ll actually make again.

Why You’ll Love It

• All the flavours of tiramisu in cookie form.
• Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Soft, chewy centres with lightly crisp edges.
• Easy mascarpone topping that feels bakery-worthy.
• Perfect for coffee lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike.

Recipe Summary

These soft espresso cookies are made with brown sugar, vanilla, and a hint of cocoa or espresso powder, then topped with a fluffy mascarpone cream and dusted with cocoa powder. They’re simple enough for a weeknight bake but impressive enough for entertaining.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

• 55g unsalted butter, melted
• 45g granulated sugar
• 52g brown sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 112g all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp cocoa powder or espresso powder
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt

For the Mascarpone Topping

• 2 tbsp mascarpone cheese
• 2 tbsp icing sugar
• ¼ tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp heavy whipping cream

For Garnish

• Cocoa powder, for dusting

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

• Espresso powder provides a stronger coffee flavour, while cocoa powder creates a more subtle tiramisu-inspired cookie.
• Full-fat mascarpone delivers the best texture and flavour.
• Heavy whipping cream should be cold for the fluffiest topping.
• A pinch of instant espresso powder can be added to the mascarpone mixture for extra coffee flavour.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Fold in the flour, cocoa powder or espresso powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until just combined.

Step 3: Shape and Bake

Divide the dough into 5 equal portions and roll into balls.

Place on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 9-10 minutes.

Allow the cookies to cool completely before decorating.

Step 4: Make the Mascarpone Cream

In a small bowl, mix together the mascarpone, icing sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Add the heavy whipping cream and beat on high speed until soft peaks form.

Step 5: Decorate

Pipe or spoon the mascarpone mixture onto each cooled cookie.

Dust generously with cocoa powder.

Serve immediately or chill until ready to enjoy.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with an espresso or cappuccino.
• Serve as part of a holiday dessert platter.
• Enjoy after dinner for a simple tiramisu-inspired treat.
• Garnish with chocolate shavings for an elevated presentation.

Pro Tips

• Let the cookies cool completely before adding the topping.
• Avoid overbaking to keep the centres soft and chewy.
• Chill the mascarpone topping for 10 minutes before piping if it becomes too soft.
• Dust with cocoa powder just before serving for the best appearance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the cookie dough.
• Overbaking the cookies.
• Using warm whipping cream for the topping.
• Decorating the cookies before they’ve fully cooled.

Storage

Refrigerator

Store topped cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Make Ahead

The cookies can be baked up to 2 days ahead and decorated before serving.

FAQs

Can I use espresso powder instead of cocoa powder?

Yes. Espresso powder will create a richer coffee flavour that’s even closer to classic tiramisu.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes. Prepare the cookies in advance and add the mascarpone topping just before serving.

Can I freeze them?

The undecorated cookies freeze well for up to 2 months. The mascarpone topping should be made fresh.

What makes these taste like tiramisu?

The combination of espresso or cocoa, mascarpone cream, vanilla, and cocoa powder creates the signature tiramisu flavour profile.