Name: Tiramisu Sandwich Cookies
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 42 min
Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Ingredients: 2/3 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon espresso powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 cups semi-sweet baking chips; 6 ounces unsweetened baking chocolate; 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter; 6 large eggs, at room temperature; 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon espresso powder; 3 tablespoons strong black coffee, warm; 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter; 3 cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted; 8 ounces mascarpone cheese, at room temperature

Jump to Recipe

Tiramisu Sandwich Cookies combine two of the most irresistible desserts into one decadent treat: the classic Italian tiramisu and the beloved chocolate cookie. These sandwich cookies are made with rich, fudgy chocolate cookies that are perfectly complemented by a creamy, mascarpone-filled tiramisu-inspired filling. The espresso flavor in both the cookie dough and the filling adds an extra layer of depth and complexity, creating a dessert that will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Each bite of these cookies brings together the luxurious taste of mascarpone cheese and the deep flavor of espresso, balanced with the sweetness of a chocolate cookie. Whether you’re serving them for a special occasion or simply indulging in a moment of sweetness, these tiramisu sandwich cookies are sure to impress. With just the right amount of coffee flavor and sweetness, they’re perfect for dessert lovers looking for something unique and indulgent.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfect Blend of Flavors: The combination of rich chocolate cookies with a creamy tiramisu filling is a match made in dessert heaven.

Coffee Lovers’ Dream: Espresso powder and coffee add a wonderful, aromatic kick that enhances the overall flavor.
Unique Twist: These cookies offer a fun, portable way to enjoy tiramisu, a classic dessert with a twist.
Luxurious Texture: The soft, fudgy cookies paired with the creamy mascarpone filling provide a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Impressive Presentation: These cookies look elegant and sophisticated, making them perfect for parties or gifting.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cookies:

All-purpose flour
Espresso powder

Baking powder
Salt
Semi-sweet baking chips

Unsweetened baking chocolate
Unsalted butter
Large eggs (at room temperature)

Granulated sugar
Vanilla extract

For the Tiramisu Cream Filling:

Espresso powder

Strong black coffee (warm)
Unsalted butter
Confectioners’ sugar (sifted)

Mascarpone cheese (at room temperature)

Variations

Different Flavors: Add a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cookie dough for an added spice twist.
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the mascarpone cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese or coconut cream for a dairy-free version of the filling.

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour to make this recipe gluten-free.
Flavored Cookies: Experiment with adding a dash of orange zest or almond extract to the cookie dough for a different flavor profile.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Cookies

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, espresso powder, baking powder, and salt.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate

In a heatproof bowl, melt the semi-sweet baking chips and unsweetened baking chocolate together in the microwave or over a double boiler. Stir until smooth and allow to cool slightly.

Step 3: Beat the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine the Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry flour mixture into the butter-sugar mixture, mixing just until combined. Stir in the melted chocolate until fully incorporated.

Step 5: Scoop and Bake the Cookies

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each scoop slightly with the back of a spoon. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are still soft. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Prepare the Tiramisu Cream Filling

In a small bowl, dissolve the espresso powder in the warm coffee and let it cool. In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and mascarpone cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sifted confectioners’ sugar, continuing to beat until smooth. Finally, add the cooled coffee and beat until well combined.

Step 7: Assemble the Sandwich Cookies

Once the cookies are completely cooled, spread a generous amount of tiramisu cream filling on the bottom of one cookie and top it with another cookie, pressing gently to create a sandwich. Repeat with the remaining cookies and filling.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the tiramisu sandwich cookies immediately, or refrigerate them for a few hours to let the flavors meld together.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the eggs, butter, and mascarpone cheese are at room temperature to ensure the dough and filling come together smoothly.
Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix the cookie dough just until combined to avoid tough cookies.

Chill the Dough (Optional): If the dough is too soft to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before baking to help it firm up.
Let the Cookies Cool Completely: Make sure the cookies are completely cooled before assembling them to prevent the filling from melting.

How to Serve

Serve these tiramisu sandwich cookies as a decadent dessert after a nice meal, or pack them up for a special treat on the go.

Pair them with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or espresso to enhance the coffee flavor in the cookies.
These cookies also make a great addition to holiday dessert platters, birthday parties, or any occasion that calls for a sweet, indulgent treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store the tiramisu sandwich cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Make sure the cookies are fully cooled before storing to prevent any moisture buildup.

Freezing

You can freeze the assembled sandwich cookies for up to 2 months. To freeze, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

If you prefer to serve them slightly warm, reheat the cookies in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to overheat, as it can cause the filling to melt.

FAQs

1. Can I make these cookies without espresso powder?

Yes, you can omit the espresso powder and still have a delicious chocolate cookie. However, the coffee flavor will be missing from the overall taste.

2. Can I use a different cheese instead of mascarpone?

You can substitute mascarpone with cream cheese, but the flavor and texture will be slightly different. Mascarpone is creamier and less tangy than cream cheese.

3. Can I use instant coffee instead of espresso powder?

Yes, you can substitute instant coffee for espresso powder, but the flavor may not be as strong or rich.

4. Can I make the cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cookies in advance and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days before assembling with the filling.

5. Can I use a hand mixer instead of a stand mixer?

Yes, a hand mixer will work just as well for both the cookie dough and the filling. Just make sure to beat the ingredients until they’re smooth and well-combined.

6. How can I make the filling sweeter?

If you prefer a sweeter filling, you can add more confectioners’ sugar to taste. Start with 3 cups and increase as needed.

7. Can I make a smaller batch of cookies?

Yes, simply halve the ingredients to make a smaller batch, or freeze any extra dough for later use.

8. Can I skip the mascarpone cheese?

While mascarpone is a key ingredient for the creamy filling, you could use a mixture of cream cheese and heavy cream as a substitute.

9. How can I make the cookies more chocolaty?

For extra chocolate flavor, you can increase the amount of semi-sweet baking chips or add cocoa powder to the dough.

10. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute for all-purpose flour to make these cookies gluten-free.

Conclusion

Tiramisu Sandwich Cookies are a perfect combination of rich chocolate and creamy tiramisu-inspired filling. These indulgent treats are perfect for coffee lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike. With their delicious balance of flavors and textures, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or simply to satisfy a sweet craving, Tiramisu Sandwich Cookies are a delightful treat that everyone will love!