If you’ve ever wished you could eat tiramisu with your hands, you’re in the right place. These tiramisu cookies take everything you love about the classic Italian dessert—bold espresso flavor, rich mascarpone cream, a soft vanilla base, and that iconic cocoa-dusted top—and transform it into a dreamy, bakery-worthy cookie that comes together with everyday ingredients and no complicated steps. Think: soft cookies brushed with real coffee, topped with a cloud of whipped mascarpone cream, then dusted in cocoa for that signature tiramisu finish.

This is a recipe you’ll find yourself coming back to over and over again. Whether you’re looking for a new cookie to bring to a potluck, want something a little more special for the holidays, or just love baking elevated treats at home, these tiramisu cookies are it. No layering. No chill time. No fancy tools. Just delicious, easy cookies that make you feel like you’re having dessert at a chic Roman café.

 Why You’ll Love These Tiramisu Cookies

• They taste like real tiramisu: Authentic espresso, creamy mascarpone, and unsweetened cocoa bring that classic tiramisu flavor to life.
• No chilling required: Unlike many sugar cookie-style recipes, this dough is ready to bake right away.
• They look fancy but are easy: With just a few simple steps and no piping skills required, they’re deceptively elegant.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can prep the components ahead of time and assemble before serving.
• Customizable: Add booze, turn them into sandwich cookies, or top with chocolate shavings for a show-stopping twist.

 Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

For the Cookies:

• Unsalted Butter: Room temperature is key! This provides richness and structure. If using salted butter, reduce the added salt slightly.
• Granulated Sugar: Keeps the cookies light in color and gives that classic sweet base to balance the coffee.
• Egg: Helps bind everything and gives the cookie a slightly cakey, tender texture.
• Vanilla Extract: You can sub in dark rum or coffee liqueur for an adult version that mimics the flavor of soaked ladyfingers in tiramisu.
• All-Purpose Flour: Spoon and level to avoid dense cookies.
• Baking Powder: Provides a soft lift—don’t skip it.
• Salt: Just a pinch enhances every other flavor.

For the Coffee Brush:

• Espresso or Strong Coffee: Brewed fresh and cooled. You can use decaf if preferred. For extra depth, stir in 1–2 tsp of coffee liqueur, dark rum, or brandy.

For the Mascarpone Cream:

• Mascarpone Cheese: This is essential for that authentic tiramisu taste. Don’t substitute cream cheese—it’s tangier and denser.
• Heavy Whipping Cream: Cold cream is essential for whipping volume and structure.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the cream and keeps it smooth.
• Vanilla Extract: Optional, but rounds out the flavors beautifully.

For Dusting:

• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Classic tiramisu topping. You can also add chocolate shavings or a sprinkle of espresso powder.

 Tips for Perfect Cookies

• Don’t overmix the dough: Just mix until combined for a soft cookie crumb.
• Slightly underbake: These cookies should be soft, not crisp. Pull them when the edges are set but the centers still look pale.
• Use cold mascarpone and cream: Temperature matters. Cold ingredients whip better and hold their shape.
• Don’t overwhip the mascarpone cream: Overwhipping can cause it to break. Stop when it’s smooth and fluffy.
• Use a piping bag for neatness: A simple zip-top bag works too. Just snip off the corner for control.

 Recipe Variations

• Boozy Tiramisu Cookies: Add 1–2 tsp of dark rum, Kahlúa, or coffee liqueur to the espresso before brushing.
• Sandwich Cookies: Double the mascarpone cream and sandwich between two cookies for the ultimate tiramisu whoopie pie.
• Chocolate Chip Twist: Fold mini dark chocolate chips into the cookie dough for added richness.
• Mini Version: Make smaller 1-tsp dough balls for bite-sized party treats—just reduce baking time accordingly.
• Holiday Tiramisu Cookies: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for festive spice.

 Serving Suggestions

• Serve chilled for a more tiramisu-like experience, or at room temperature for a soft, creamy bite.
• Plate on a wooden board, dust with extra cocoa, and garnish with edible flowers or shaved chocolate for a dessert platter.
• Pair with espresso, cappuccino, or a dessert wine like Vin Santo for a full Italian café vibe.
• These cookies make amazing edible gifts—just store in a paper box with parchment dividers and refrigerate until delivery.

 Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Unfrosted cookies: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
• Mascarpone cream: Store separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. Whisk briefly before using if it softens.
• Assembled cookies: Best served within 24 hours, but can be refrigerated in a single layer for up to 2–3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cookie dough balls on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the time.

 Frequently Asked Questions (Tiramisu Cookie FAQ)

Can I use cream cheese instead of mascarpone?

Technically yes, but the taste and texture will be different. Cream cheese is tangier and firmer. Mascarpone is smoother and more authentic to tiramisu.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum for best results. The texture may be slightly different but still delicious.

What if I don’t have an espresso machine?

No problem—just use instant espresso powder mixed with hot water, or brew a small batch of very strong coffee.

Do I have to pipe the cream?

Nope! A spoon works just fine. These cookies are charming even with a rustic, casual finish.

How do I keep the mascarpone cream from deflating?

Use cold ingredients, don’t overwhip, and frost cookies right before serving if you want maximum volume and texture.

Can I make them ahead of time?

Yes! Bake the cookies and store them unfrosted, then whip the cream and assemble up to a day before serving.

Can I make these vegan or dairy-free?

Not easily, since mascarpone and cream are central to the tiramisu flavor. You could experiment with a whipped coconut cream and dairy-free butter alternative, but results will vary.

 Final Thoughts

There’s something undeniably magical about tiramisu. It’s elegant, nostalgic, and packed with complex flavors—but it can also be time-consuming. These tiramisu cookies are your shortcut to all that deliciousness, no layering or fuss required. They’re rich but not heavy, sweet but balanced, and simple enough to make any time a tiramisu craving strikes. Whether you’re baking for a dinner party, holiday tray, or a quiet moment of coffee and cookies on the couch, this recipe brings a little piece of Italy into your everyday life.

Scroll down for the full recipe card, printable format, and all the steps you need to bring these incredible cookies to life. Don’t forget to leave a comment and rating if you try them—it helps others find this recipe and keeps the espresso flowing around here!