Tiramisu Sandwich Cookies Recipe

Imagine biting into a cookie that captures all the luscious flavors of a classic Italian dessert in a perfectly portable form. These Tiramisu Sandwich Cookies bring together rich coffee-infused cookies and a dreamy mascarpone filling that will have you hooked from the very first crumb. They are a superb treat for any occasion—whether you’re craving a sweet pick-me-up or impressing guests with something a little extra special. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, quality ingredients is key to making these Tiramisu Sandwich Cookies shine. Each component plays a crucial role—from the smoothness of the mascarpone to the subtle coffee notes in the dough—coming together flawlessly to create their characteristic flavor and texture.

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides a creamy richness and helps create tender cookies with a delicate crumb.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and aids in achieving a light, fluffy texture when creamed with butter.
• 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients and adds moisture for a soft cookie base.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances flavor depth with its warm, sweet aroma.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives the cookies structure and chewiness.
• ½ teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cookies rise slightly for a tender bite.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and boosts all the other flavors.
• 2 tablespoons instant espresso powder: Infuses the dough with authentic coffee flavor.
• 1 cup mascarpone cheese: Creates a rich, creamy filling essential to the tiramisu experience.
• ½ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the mascarpone and smooths the filling texture.
• 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur: Adds an adult touch with depth and warmth in the filling.
• ½ teaspoon cocoa powder for dusting: Delivers that final classic tiramisu finish with a hint of chocolate.

How to Make Tiramisu Sandwich Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture turns light and fluffy—that’s where the magic of a tender cookie begins. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until everything becomes smooth and velvety. In a separate bowl, whisk the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and instant espresso powder. Gradually combine the dry ingredients into the wet, mixing gently just until a soft dough forms; be careful not to overmix, or your cookies might turn out tough.

Step 2: Shape and Bake the Cookies

Roll the dough into even 1-inch balls for consistent baking, spacing them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet so they have room to spread without merging. Lightly flatten each ball using the palm of your hand—this helps achieve a lovely base for sandwiching later. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden; this ensures they have that crisp exterior with a soft center. Once baked, let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack—patience here is rewarded with perfect texture and flavor!

Step 3: Make the Mascarpone Filling

While the cookies cool, prepare the luscious mascarpone filling by beating together mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and coffee liqueur until smooth and creamy. This mixture should be light yet rich, combining sweetness with just a hint of boozy coffee undertone that makes these Tiramisu Sandwich Cookies so special.

Step 4: Assemble the Sandwich Cookies

Once the cookies are fully cooled, spoon a generous dollop of the mascarpone filling onto the flat side of one cookie and top it with another, gently pressing them together to form a sandwich. Finish by lightly dusting the tops with cocoa powder to bring that unmistakable tiramisu flair, and your cookies are ready to delight!

How to Serve Tiramisu Sandwich Cookies

Garnishes

Adding a simple dusting of cocoa powder not only enhances the look but deepens the flavor profile with a hint of bittersweet chocolate. For a fun twist, sprinkle a few finely grated chocolate curls or a pinch of instant espresso powder on top to boost the coffee notes.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair beautifully with a cup of espresso or cappuccino, perfecting a cozy coffee break or an after-dinner indulgence. Alternatively, a scoop of vanilla gelato or a dollop of whipped cream on the side can elevate this treat into a full dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Try arranging your Tiramisu Sandwich Cookies on a tiered dessert stand for a chic party presentation. You can also wrap individual sandwiches in parchment with a twine bow to gift to friends or serve at a bridal shower or tea party, adding an elegant touch to any occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Tiramisu Sandwich Cookies are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Chilling helps keep the mascarpone filling firm and maintains the delightful textures of the cookies.

Freezing

If you want to prepare them well in advance, you can freeze the cookies and the filling separately for up to one month. Thaw the cookies at room temperature, then assemble with freshly whipped filling for the best flavor and texture.

Reheating

Since these are delicate sandwich cookies with mascarpone, reheating is not recommended. Instead, serve them chilled or at room temperature to savor the full richness of the filling and the soft coffee-infused cookies.

FAQs

Can I use regular brewed coffee instead of instant espresso powder?

While brewed coffee adds flavor, instant espresso powder is preferred because it delivers a concentrated coffee taste without adding extra liquid, which can affect dough consistency. If using brewed coffee, reduce other liquids accordingly or use espresso powder for best results.

Is mascarpone cheese necessary for the filling?

Mascarpone gives tiramisu its signature creamy texture and mild tang. While cream cheese can be a substitute, it alters the flavor and texture somewhat. For authentic Tiramisu Sandwich Cookies, mascarpone is the best choice.

Can these cookies be made gluten-free?

Absolutely! Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly, but the delicious coffee and mascarpone flavors will still shine.

How long do these cookies last once assembled?

After assembly, store the cookies in the refrigerator and enjoy them within 2 to 3 days for optimal freshness, as the mascarpone filling may soften the cookies over time.

Can I skip the coffee liqueur in the filling?

Yes, you can omit the coffee liqueur if you prefer an alcohol-free version. You might want to add a splash of coffee or espresso for extra flavor to keep the filling rich and complementary to the cookie’s taste.

Final Thoughts

These Tiramisu Sandwich Cookies make sharing a classic Italian favorite fun, easy, and irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing friends, they bring all the cozy, coffee-flavored goodness that tiramisu promises in a fresh, playful way. I absolutely encourage you to give this recipe a try—you’ll quickly understand why they’ve earned a special place among my favorite desserts!