Name: Tiramisu Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (226 g); 1 tablespoon instant powder espresso; 2.5 cups all purpose flour (300 g); 2 teaspoons cornstarch; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 0.25 teaspoon baking soda; 1.5 cups granulated sugar (300 g); 1 large egg (room temperature); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract ((5 ml)); 8 oz. mascarpone cheese (cold); 1.5 cups powdered sugar (180 g); 2 teaspoons instant powder espresso; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract ((5 ml)); 1 cup cold heavy whipping cream ((237 ml)); 2 tablespoons cocoa powder (for dusting (10 g))

Introduction to Tiramisu Cookies

Why Tiramisu Cookies? A Sweet Twist on a Classic

If you're as enamored with the classic Italian dessert tiramisu as I am, then you’ll want to indulge in these delightful Tiramisu Cookies. Imagine soft, chewy cookies infused with a rich coffee flavor, topped with a luxuriously creamy espresso mascarpone frosting. In just one bite, these cookies transport you to a cozy café in Rome, where every sweet treat tells a story.

Tiramisu has always been a beloved choice for gatherings and celebrations, but what if you could enjoy its essence in a more portable form? That's the beauty of Tiramisu Cookies — they blend the beloved flavors of coffee, cocoa, and mascarpone into a handheld delight, perfect for everything from brunch to dessert parties.

Not to mention, baking cookies is often a more approachable way to enjoy classic desserts. You can whip up a batch in about 25 minutes, making them an excellent option for unexpected guests or a cozy night in. Plus, the balance of espresso and sweetness makes them suitable for coffee lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike. You can discover more about the tiramisu tradition here.

So, why not give these Tiramisu Cookies a try? They might just become your new favorite sweet treat!

Ingredients for Tiramisu Cookies

Overview of Key Ingredients

Creating Tiramisu Cookies is all about balancing rich flavors with soft textures. Here's what you'll need for these delightful treats:

Unsalted Butter: Essential for that rich, buttery taste.
Instant Espresso Powder: Adds a deep coffee flavor without the hassle of brewing a pot.
Mascarpone Cheese: This creamy cheese is key to achieving that luscious frosting unique to tiramisu.
Granulated and Powdered Sugar: Granulated sugar gives the cookie its structure, while powdered sugar sweetens the frosting effortlessly.
All-Purpose Flour and Cornstarch: They provide the perfect base for chewy cookies, ensuring the right consistency.

Baking Essentials

Before you dive into making your cookies, gather these kitchen essentials:

Mixing Bowls: You’ll need at least two for mixing the cookie dough and frosting.
Cookie Scoop: A medium-sized scoop ensures even cookies every time.
Baking Sheets and Parchment Paper: This helps with easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: For whipping that creamy frosting to perfection.

These ingredients and tools are your ticket to creating scrumptious Tiramisu Cookies that will impress friends and family. For more detailed ingredient insights, check out this guide on baking essentials.

Step-by-Step Preparation of Tiramisu Cookies

Creating tiramisu cookies is a delightful journey that brings the classic Italian dessert to a cozy cookie format. Below, you’ll find a breakdown of the preparation steps, ensuring that your baking process is as enjoyable as the end result.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before diving into the baking magic, it’s essential to have all your ingredients ready. This not only saves time but also helps prevent missing anything crucial. For these scrumptious tiramisu cookies, you’ll need:

Coffee Sugar Cookies:
1 cup unsalted butter
1 tablespoon instant espresso powder
2½ cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons cornstarch
1 teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon baking soda
1½ cups granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Espresso Mascarpone Frosting:
8 oz. mascarpone cheese
1½ cups powdered sugar
2 teaspoons instant espresso powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup cold heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons cocoa powder for dusting

Having everything on hand will streamline the process and keep your kitchen organized.

Prepare the Coffee Sugar Cookie Dough

Once you have gathered all your ingredients, it's time to bring them together to create the dough. Start by melting the butter and whisking in the espresso powder. Let that mixture cool. Meanwhile, mix the dry ingredients—flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and baking soda—until well combined.

Then, in a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled espresso butter with granulated sugar until smooth. Stir in the egg and vanilla extract, and gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.

Bake the Cookies to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while allowing the cookie dough to rest for about 30 minutes. This resting period helps develop the flavors and ensures your cookies have that perfect chewy texture. Scoop the dough onto a lined baking sheet, making sure each cookie is spaced about three inches apart.

Bake them for about 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges are set but the centers remain soft. Let them cool on the baking sheet for five minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

Make the Espresso Mascarpone Frosting

While your cookies are cooling, it’s time to whip up the luscious frosting. In a mixing bowl, use a stand mixer or hand mixer to blend the cold mascarpone cheese until smooth. Gradually add the espresso powder, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar. Once your mixture is well combined, slowly pour in the cold heavy cream and increase the speed to medium. Mix until the frosting is light and fluffy.

Assemble and Frost the Cookies

Finally, it’s time to bring it all together! Take each cooled cookie and generously dollop on 1 to 2 tablespoons of that creamy espresso mascarpone frosting. Use an icing spatula or the back of a spoon to spread it evenly across each cookie. For the finishing touch, dust with cocoa powder—you want that classic tiramisu look and taste!

Enjoying these delicious tiramisu cookies is an excellent way to fuse delicious coffee flavors and a classic dessert experience. Now, who wouldn’t want to treat themselves to that? Happy baking!

Variations on Tiramisu Cookies

Nutty Tiramisu Cookies

For a delightful twist on classic Tiramisu Cookies, consider adding nuts like chopped hazelnuts or walnuts to the cookie dough. This will introduce a satisfying crunch and deepen the flavor profile. Just fold in about 1 cup of your preferred nuts along with the flour for an added texture that complements the rich espresso notes beautifully.

Gluten-Free Tiramisu Cookies

If you're looking to enjoy Tiramisu Cookies while avoiding gluten, simply swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Many blends work well in cookie recipes; just ensure it's a 1:1 replacement type. This way, you can savor the creamy mascarpone frosting with the full flavors of coffee and cocoa, minus the gluten. For further flexibility, check out options from reliable sources like Bob's Red Mill which offer gluten-free products.

These variations allow you to tailor your Tiramisu Cookies to suit every palate and dietary need!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Tiramisu Cookies

Tips for Perfect Cookies

To ensure your Tiramisu cookies turn out delightful every time, try these handy tips:

Chill the Dough: Letting your dough rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes helps the flavors meld and enhances the cookie texture.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh espresso powder can make a noticeable difference in flavor. Make sure your baking powder is also fresh for the best rise.
Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the baking time. Cookies should be slightly soft in the center when you take them out; they'll firm up as they cool!

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Tiramisu cookies fresh:

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
If you want to extend their life, refrigerate them for up to a week. Just remember to let them come back to room temperature before enjoying!
For longer storage, consider freezing the unbaked cookie dough. Scoop them onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of minutes to the cooking time.

With these tips, you’re sure to impress friends and family with your delicious cookies!

Serving Suggestions for Tiramisu Cookies

Perfect Pairings with Your Cookies

Tiramisu Cookies shine when complemented with the right beverages. A rich, freshly brewed cup of coffee pairs perfectly, enhancing the coffee flavor in the cookies. If you're feeling adventurous, try serving them with a decadent hot chocolate, adding a touch of whipped cream and chocolate shavings for extra indulgence. For a lighter option, a refreshing glass of vanilla almond milk can balance the sweetness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present Them

Presenting your Tiramisu Cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Consider arranging them on a decorative platter and sprinkling cocoa powder artfully around the cookies for visual appeal. You can also stack them in clear glass jars, tied with a rustic ribbon, making for an enticing gift. Another fun idea is to serve them at a coffee bar alongside a variety of toppings like crushed nuts or chocolate chips, allowing guests to customize their treats! Explore more creative ideas at Food52 or BBC Good Food for inspiration!

Time Breakdown for Tiramisu Cookies

When it comes to whipping up a delightful batch of Tiramisu Cookies, knowing how to allocate your time can make all the difference. Here’s a handy breakdown:

Preparation Time

Allocate about 15 minutes to gather your ingredients, mix your dough, and prepare your baking sheets. This is the fun part where you can let your creative juices flow!

Baking Time

Once your cookies are ready for the oven, they’ll need just 10-12 minutes to bake. Keep a close eye on them; you want those edges to be just set while the centers remain slightly puffed.

Total Time

From start to finish, you’re looking at a total of 25 minutes to create these delicious treats. Perfect for a quick yet impressive dessert that will wow your friends and family.

For more tips on baking time and techniques, check out Baking with Joy, a fantastic resource for every home chef! Happy baking!

Nutritional Facts for Tiramisu Cookies

Calories

Each Tiramisu Cookie contains approximately 150 calories, making them a delightful yet indulgent treat perfect for celebrations or cozy evenings.

Carbohydrates

With around 22 grams of carbohydrates per cookie, these sweet delights blend the richness of traditional tiramisu with the comfort of homemade cookies.

Sugars

Tiramisu Cookies feature about 10 grams of sugar, offering just the right amount of sweetness without overwhelming the palate. Enjoy these cookies in moderation, and consider pairing with a cup of coffee for a delightful experience!

For more on the nutritional aspects of baking, check out this article from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

FAQ about Tiramisu Cookies

How do I store Tiramisu Cookies for freshness?

To keep your Tiramisu Cookies fresh, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain their soft and chewy texture. If you plan to keep them for more than a few days, consider refrigerating them for an extra layer of freshness. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before enjoying!

Can I make Tiramisu Cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cookie dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Alternatively, you can freeze the dough for up to three months. Just scoop out your cookie balls and freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to bake, no need to thaw; just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

What can I substitute if I don’t have mascarpone cheese?

If you’re in a pinch without mascarpone cheese, a creamy mixture of cream cheese and heavy cream can work as a substitute. For every 8 oz. of mascarpone needed, blend 6 oz. of cream cheese with 2 oz. of heavy cream until smooth. This will give you a similar texture and flavor profile for your frosting!

For more tips on baking substitutions, you might find this resource helpful.

Indulge in Your Homemade Tiramisu Cookies!

In conclusion, your Tiramisu Cookies are not just a treat; they’re a delightful experience that merges the comforting flavors of classic tiramisu with a playful twist. Ideal for gatherings or simple moments at home, these cookies are sure to impress. Remember, each bite is an invitation to savor the moment.