Perfect for those who can’t decide between a cookie and a cup of coffee, these Tiramisu Cookies combine the best of both worlds. Packed with espresso flavor and layered with a creamy mascarpone frosting, they’re a decadent treat that’s surprisingly easy to make.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of espresso powder in the cookie dough and the coffee soak gives these cookies a deep, rich coffee flavor that tiramisu lovers will adore.
- Using mascarpone cheese in the frosting adds an authentic tiramisu creaminess and tang that balances the sweetness of the cookie.
- The cookies are baked to a perfect softness, ensuring they’re tender enough to soak up the coffee mixture without falling apart.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp espresso powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line your baking sheets with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, espresso powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures your cookies will have a uniform flavor and texture.
Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. This step is crucial for creating a tender cookie. Tip: Make sure your butter is at room temperature to achieve the perfect consistency.
Add Wet Ingredients
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. Then, gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so stop as soon as the flour disappears.
Bake to Perfection
Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just set but the centers are still soft. Tip: For evenly baked cookies, rotate the baking sheets halfway through the cooking time.
Soak and Frost
Once cooled, lightly brush each cookie with the brewed coffee. Then, whip together the mascarpone, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Spread or pipe the frosting onto each cookie. Tip: For a stronger coffee flavor, you can add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the frosting.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra touch of elegance, dust the frosted cookies with cocoa powder or finely grated chocolate. If you’re short on time, you can skip the coffee soak, but it really enhances the tiramisu experience. Store these cookies in the refrigerator to keep the frosting firm, but let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Recipe Variations
- For a chocolate twist, add 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips to the dough.
- Substitute the mascarpone frosting with a whipped cream frosting for a lighter version.
- Add a splash of Kahlua or another coffee liqueur to the coffee soak for an adult-only treat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these cookies without espresso powder? Yes, but the coffee flavor won’t be as pronounced. You can try instant coffee granules as a substitute, though the flavor may vary.
How long do these cookies last? Stored properly in the refrigerator, they’ll last up to 3 days. Just make sure to keep them in an airtight container to prevent them from absorbing other flavors.
Can I freeze these cookies? Absolutely! Freeze them unfrosted and add the frosting after thawing for best results.
Summary
These Tiramisu Cookies are a delightful fusion of coffee and dessert, perfect for any occasion. With their rich flavor and creamy frosting, they’re sure to impress.