Imagine all the creamy, dreamy flavors of classic tiramisu, but in delightfully chewy, hand-held form: that’s the magic of this Espresso Kissed Tiramisu Cookies Recipe. Each bite brings together bold espresso, rich mascarpone frosting, and a flutter of sweet cocoa powder for a treat that feels just a little bit luxurious, without any complicated steps. If you’re a fan of coffee-infused desserts or simply want to impress family and friends with something special, these cookies deliver café-quality flavor—no fancy equipment (or elaborate layering) required!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this Espresso Kissed Tiramisu Cookies Recipe are refreshingly straightforward, yet each one plays a starring role in building layers of flavor and texture. From strong coffee to cloud-like mascarpone, you’ll love how these essentials combine for a cookie that’s totally irresistible.
- All-purpose flour: This is the backbone of your cookies, giving them sturdy-yet-tender structure.
- Baking powder: A bit of leavening helps the cookies puff ever so slightly and keeps them soft.
- Salt: Just enough to heighten the flavors and balance the sweetness.
- Instant espresso powder: The secret to the bold coffee note—don’t skip it for the real “tiramisu” vibe.
- Unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness and ensures a beautiful cookie crumb.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and aids in that coveted chewy texture.
- Large egg: The binder, which brings everything together in the dough.
- Vanilla extract: A splash adds warm, aromatic depth to both cookie and frosting.
- Strong brewed espresso or coffee (cooled): Reinforces the coffee flavor and moistens the dough.
- Mascarpone cheese: Essential for that silky, tangy tiramisu-inspired frosting.
- Powdered sugar: Blends into the frosting without a hint of graininess.
- Vanilla extract (for frosting): Rounds out the mascarpone filling with a subtle, sweet scent.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: That classic tiramisu touch for dusting just before serving.
How to Make Espresso Kissed Tiramisu Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Sheets and Preheat the Oven
Set yourself up for baking success by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining two cookie sheets with parchment paper. This simple step prevents sticking and ensures those beautiful bases on your Espresso Kissed Tiramisu Cookies Recipe.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together your flour, baking powder, salt, and instant espresso powder. This not only guarantees an even coffee flavor but means your rise and seasoning are perfectly dispersed throughout every bite.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat your softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is fluffy and pale—this signals air has been incorporated, giving you cookies with that light (but never dry) crumb.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
To your creamed mixture, beat in the egg and a teaspoon of vanilla extract. Next, alternate folding in the dry flour mix with generous splashes of brewed (and cooled) espresso. You want a soft, slightly sticky dough that smells amazing even before baking!
Step 5: Portion and Bake
Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, making sure to space them about two inches apart—these cookies need just a little room to spread. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until their edges are lightly golden and your kitchen smells downright heavenly.
Step 6: Cool Completely
Let the cookies cool on the sheets for five minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Cooling completely is crucial; it keeps the frosting from turning soupy, so patience here pays off with perfect results.
Step 7: Make the Mascarpone Frosting
While the cookies cool, whip together mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and a touch more vanilla extract. The result is a cloud-like frosting that’s smooth, luscious, and meant for generous dolloping.
Step 8: Frost and Dust
Once the cookies are no longer warm, spread or pipe a mound of that gorgeous mascarpone frosting on top. Finish with a light dusting of unsweetened cocoa powder for the most satisfying, tiramisu-inspired bite in cookie form.
How to Serve Espresso Kissed Tiramisu Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Nothing completes these cookies like a final dusting of unsweetened cocoa powder, which gives each one a signature tiramisu flair. For a little drama, try topping with delicate chocolate curls or even a single chocolate-covered espresso bean for a professional bakery look!
Side Dishes
Pair your Espresso Kissed Tiramisu Cookies Recipe with hot espresso, cappuccino, or a creamy latte for a dreamy Italian-inspired coffee break. They also play well with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla gelato if you want to create a dessert platter worthy of a celebration.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the cookies on a pretty platter with each one nestled in a mini cupcake liner, or stack them high on a cake stand for a truly “wow” moment at your next gathering. These cookies also make a delightful homemade gift—simply tuck them into a small bakery box lined with parchment and tie with a ribbon.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Espresso Kissed Tiramisu Cookies Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator, since the mascarpone frosting is best kept chilled. Let them sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving for the softest texture and fullest flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze the unfrosted cookies for up to two months! Just cool them completely, layer them with parchment in a freezer-safe container, and thaw at room temperature before adding the frosting and cocoa dusting fresh for serving.
Reheating
If you prefer your cookies a touch warm (without the frosting), pop them in a moderate oven for just a couple of minutes. Frosted cookies should be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature; a quick rest on the countertop does the trick just right.
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dough, wrap it tightly, and chill for up to 24 hours before baking. Let it soften slightly so it’s easy to scoop before baking.
What can I use in place of mascarpone?
If mascarpone is hard to find, try full-fat cream cheese for the frosting—just expect a tangier, firmer result that’s still delicious.
Can I double the Espresso Kissed Tiramisu Cookies Recipe for a crowd?
Yes—this recipe doubles beautifully. Just make sure not to crowd the baking sheets so each cookie bakes evenly.
How strong is the coffee flavor overall?
It’s noticeable but not overwhelming; for a bolder kick, increase the instant espresso powder or use extra-strong brewed coffee in the dough.
Will the cookies stay soft after frosting?
The cookies become even more tender topped with mascarpone—just store them in the fridge and let them warm up a bit before serving for the perfect texture.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to taste just how special this Espresso Kissed Tiramisu Cookies Recipe really is. Whether you’re looking for a nostalgic dessert, a grown-up cookie for coffee dates, or a creative gift from your kitchen, these charming bites are guaranteed to win hearts and compliments. Give them a try, have fun with the decorating, and savor your own sweet taste of Italian-inspired bliss!
Print
Espresso Kissed Tiramisu Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich flavors of espresso and mascarpone with these delectable Tiramisu Cookies. Perfect for coffee lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike!
Ingredients
Dough:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup strong brewed espresso or coffee, cooled
Frosting:
- 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
- unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Prepare the dough: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and espresso powder. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, then beat until combined. Gradually mix in the flour mixture, alternating with the brewed espresso, until a soft dough forms.
- Bake the cookies: Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the frosting: While the cookies cool, prepare the frosting by beating the mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth and fluffy.
- Frost the cookies: Once cookies are fully cooled, spread or pipe a dollop of frosting onto each cookie. Dust lightly with cocoa powder just before serving.
Notes
- For a deeper coffee flavor, increase the espresso powder slightly.
- Store frosted cookies in the refrigerator and allow to come to room temperature before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 60 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 17 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
