Tiramisu Espresso Cookies Fusion

Featured in Sweet Moments of Joy.

These tiramisu-inspired cookies combine the luscious flavors of espresso, mascarpone, and cocoa in a soft, chewy treat. The dough is infused with coffee and vanilla, then sandwiched around a creamy mascarpone filling for a delectable bite reminiscent of classic Italian desserts. A dusting of cocoa on top offers just the right finish. Enjoy them freshly made or lightly chilled to set the filling and intensify the coffee notes. Perfect for serving with tea or as a sweet pick-me-up, these cookies deliver all the charm of tiramisu in handheld form.

Barbara Chef
Updated on Mon, 16 Jun 2025 13:34:45 GMT
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A dessert with white whipped cream and chocolate sprinkles. | gracefulflavors.com

Tiramisu Cookies are the ultimate treat when you want the flavor of everyone’s favorite Italian dessert in a portable, crowd-pleasing package. With the creamy, coffee-kissed filling snuggled between tender cookies, these never last long at my house. Every bite is an irresistible mix of sweet mascarpone, a hint of cocoa, and soft, coffee-infused dough that tastes like pure comfort.

The first time I made these was for a snow day baking project. Now my sister always requests them for her birthday in place of cake.

Ingredients

  • All-purpose flour: Gives structure and chew to the cookies Look for unbleached flour for a more delicate texture
  • Baking powder: Ensures a gentle rise in the dough Make sure it is fresh for best results
  • Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors Use a fine sea salt for even distribution
  • Unsalted butter: Softened for creaminess and that classic buttery cookie base Choose high-quality butter for superior taste
  • Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with browning Use organic if possible for best flavor
  • Large eggs: Bind the dough and create tenderness Look for room temperature eggs for smooth mixing
  • Vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the cookies Pure vanilla is worth it for the richer aroma
  • Instant coffee granules: Intensifies that signature tiramisu espresso note Choose a bold roast instant for best impact
  • Hot water: Dissolves the coffee so you get bold flavor in every bite Filtered water is ideal
  • Mascarpone cheese: Signature tiramisu creaminess Choose fresh and authentic Italian mascarpone for lush results
  • Heavy cream: Makes the filling velvety and rich Go for heavy whipping cream not light cream
  • Coffee liqueur: Adds grown-up depth and boosts the coffee flavor Kahlua or similar work especially well
  • Cocoa powder: For dusting Gives that iconic tiramisu finish Use unsweetened Dutch process for deeper cocoa flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Pans:
Set your oven to 350°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking and ensure even baking
Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl whisk all-purpose flour baking powder and salt until blended so everything gets evenly incorporated
Cream Butter and Sugar:
Using an electric mixer beat softened butter and granulated sugar together on medium speed until fluffy and pale This step traps air for light airy cookies
Add Eggs and Vanilla:
Add eggs one at a time mixing well after each so dough stays smooth Stir in vanilla extract for a perfumed base
Dissolve Coffee and Add:
In a small bowl dissolve instant coffee granules in hot water Add to the butter mixture and mix well This boosts the espresso flavor throughout
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture Mixing until just combined Avoid overmixing to keep cookies soft
Scoop and Portion Dough:
Using a tablespoon or small scoop drop dough rounds onto baking sheets Spacing them so they do not spread into each other
Bake:
Bake for 10 to 12 minutes Cookies should be set around the edges but still soft in the center which ensures a tender bite
Cool Cookies:
Let cookies rest on baking sheets for five minutes before moving to wire racks to cool completely This helps them finish setting
Make Mascarpone Filling:
In a bowl beat mascarpone cheese and heavy cream together until smooth and creamy Aim for a thick but spreadable consistency
Add Coffee Liqueur:
Beat coffee liqueur into the filling so every bite has that classic tiramisu depth
Assemble Cookies:
Once cookies are cool spread plenty of mascarpone filling onto the bottom of one cookie and top with another to make a sandwich
Dust with Cocoa:
Use a sieve or sifter to dust cocoa powder on top Giving that classic tiramisu finish
Chill and Serve:
Enjoy right away or refrigerate cookies for about thirty minutes so the filling sets for less mess and a firmer bite
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A cookie with white frosting and chocolate chips. | gracefulflavors.com

You Must Know

  • High in satisfaction with moderate calories for a sweet treat
  • Filling can be made ahead to speed up party prep
  • Cookies hold together well and do not go soggy

I absolutely love mascarpone and find that using a really fresh Italian brand makes a world of difference Here is a tip I picked up from my grandmother Always taste your mascarpone before making the filling If it is creamy and mild you know your tiramisu cookies will be dreamy I still remember the first time my family tried these cookies at a holiday dinner Everyone wanted seconds before they finished their first

A cookie with white frosting and chocolate sprinkles. Pin it
A cookie with white frosting and chocolate sprinkles. | gracefulflavors.com

Storage Tips

Tiramisu cookies keep best when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days The flavor actually deepens after a day Chilling also helps the mascarpone filling set Keep a piece of parchment between layers so they do not stick together If you want to make them ahead only assemble the cookies and filling shortly before serving to keep them fresh

Ingredient Substitutions

If mascarpone cheese is unavailable full fat cream cheese makes a decent substitute though the flavor will be a little tangier Instant coffee can be swapped for a shot of cooled espresso use less so the dough is not too runny Do not skip the coffee liqueur for true tiramisu magic but vanilla extract works if you need a nonalcoholic option

Serving Suggestions

These cookies are delightful on their own but are absolutely heavenly next to a cup of espresso or after dinner coffee I also love to sprinkle a bit more cocoa right before serving for an extra touch of drama You can stack them up on a tiered dessert tray for parties or box them up for a special edible gift

Italian Origins

Tiramisu is the iconic dessert hailing from the Veneto region of Italy The flavor combination of creamy filling coffee and cocoa is instantly recognizable These cookies offer a playful tribute so you can bring a little Italian flair to your table without the fuss of assembling the traditional layered dessert

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do you achieve a soft texture in these cookies?

Soften the butter before mixing and avoid overmixing the dough to maintain a tender crumb.

→ What can I use if I don't have mascarpone cheese?

Cream cheese is a suitable alternative, though it will introduce a tangier flavor profile.

→ How can I enhance the espresso flavor?

Increase the amount of instant coffee granules or allow the assembled cookies to chill for deeper flavor development.

→ How should these cookies be stored?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for best freshness, as the mascarpone filling is perishable.

→ Is it necessary to sift cocoa powder on top?

While optional, sifting cocoa powder adds both flavor and a visually appealing finish.

Tiramisu Espresso Cookies Fusion

Espresso and mascarpone elevate these soft, buttery cookies. Hints of cocoa and coffee add depth to every bite.

Prep Time
20 Minutes
Cook Time
12 Minutes
Total Time
32 Minutes
By: Barbara


Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: Italian-American

Yield: 12 Servings (12 sandwich cookies)

Dietary: Vegetarian

Ingredients

→ Cookie Dough

01 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
02 1 teaspoon baking powder
03 1/2 teaspoon salt
04 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
05 3/4 cup granulated sugar
06 2 large eggs
07 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
08 1 tablespoon instant coffee granules
09 1 tablespoon hot water

→ Mascarpone Filling

10 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
11 1/4 cup heavy cream
12 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur

→ Finishing

13 1/4 cup cocoa powder, for dusting

Instructions

Step 01

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.

Step 02

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until thoroughly blended.

Step 03

In a large mixing bowl, beat softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy in texture.

Step 04

Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in the vanilla extract until evenly distributed.

Step 05

Dissolve instant coffee granules in hot water, then blend into the butter and egg mixture until fully incorporated.

Step 06

Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing.

Step 07

Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto prepared baking sheets, allowing approximately 2 inches between portions.

Step 08

Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden and centers are still soft.

Step 09

Remove from oven and let cookies rest on baking sheets for 5 minutes. Transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 10

In a mixing bowl, beat mascarpone cheese with heavy cream until smooth and creamy.

Step 11

Add coffee liqueur to mascarpone mixture and continue blending until evenly combined.

Step 12

Spread mascarpone filling generously onto the bottom of one cookie and sandwich with a second cookie.

Step 13

Sift cocoa powder over the tops of assembled cookies. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to set the filling.

Notes

  1. For best results, ensure butter is softened prior to creaming to achieve a light, fluffy texture.
  2. To intensify coffee flavor, increase the instant coffee by 1 teaspoon.
  3. Cream cheese can substitute mascarpone, but will alter the overall taste.
  4. Avoid overmixing the dough to maintain cookie tenderness.
  5. Allowing cookies to chill enhances the taste and sets the filling more firmly.

Tools You'll Need

  • Electric mixer
  • Mixing bowls
  • Baking sheets
  • Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
  • Wire racks
  • Sifter or fine-mesh strainer
  • Spatula
  • Tablespoon or small cookie scoop

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains eggs, milk, wheat, and alcohol (coffee liqueur).

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 150
  • Total Fat: ~
  • Total Carbohydrate: ~
  • Protein: ~