As I sifted through a sparkling assortment of holiday treats, I stumbled upon the magic of Tiramisu Christmas Cookies. These delightful gems beautifully marry the rich essence of traditional tiramisu—think espresso, mascarpone, and cocoa—in a chewy cookie format that will impress at any festive gathering. Not only do they offer an elegant upgrade to your dessert table, but their easy preparation makes them a perfect choice for both seasoned bakers and those just beginning their culinary adventures. You’ll love how these coffee-flavored delights whip up in no time, giving you more moments to enjoy the holiday spirit. Ready to treat yourself and loved ones to this indulgent experience? Let’s dive into creating your new favorite festive cookie!
Why make Tiramisu Christmas Cookies?
Indulgent Flavor Combination: The fusion of espresso, mascarpone, and cocoa envelops your taste buds in a holiday dream.
Effortless Baking: With a straightforward recipe, these cookies are suitable for bakers of all skill levels, meaning anyone can whip them up in no time!
Versatile Treats: Feel free to experiment with variations, such as adding chocolate chips or flavored liqueurs; your creativity is the limit!
Perfect for Sharing: Impress guests at parties or family gatherings with these elegant cookies that are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Make Ahead Friendly: You can bake and freeze these delights in advance, allowing you more time to enjoy holiday festivities. Looking for more festive inspiration? Check out our Joy Christmas Fudge for another sweet addition to your holiday lineup!
Tiramisu Christmas Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookies
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the cookies; can substitute with cake flour for a softer texture.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Adds depth of flavor and a beautiful dark color; high-quality cocoa is recommended for best results.
- Espresso Powder – Infuses the cookies with an intense coffee flavor; for a milder effect, use instant coffee instead.
- Baking Soda – Helps the cookies rise and become fluffy; no substitutions needed.
- Salt – Enhances all the flavors in the cookie; no substitutions needed.
- Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and helps achieve a chewy texture; can be swapped with vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookies delightfully; brown sugar can be used for a caramel-like flavor.
- Eggs – Binds the ingredients together; for a vegan version, you can use flax eggs as a substitute.
For the Frosting
- Mascarpone Cheese – Adds a luscious creaminess to the frosting; full-fat cream cheese can substitute but will alter the flavor slightly.
- Heavy Cream – Whipped into the frosting for a light, airy texture; half-and-half can serve as a lighter alternative.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; adjust to taste for your preferred sweetness.
Transform your kitchen into a festive wonderland with these indulgent Tiramisu Christmas Cookies. Perfect for sharing and savoring, they’re a delightful twist on holiday baking!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Tiramisu Christmas Cookies
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is an essential step to ensure your Tiramisu Christmas Cookies bake evenly. As the oven warms up, you can gather your baking sheets and line them with parchment paper, which will help prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together 1 ¾ cups of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 2 tablespoons of espresso powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. This mixture forms the heart of your cookie dough. Make sure there are no lumps, allowing the dry ingredients to blend harmoniously and contribute to the rich flavor profile of the Tiramisu Christmas Cookies.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, usually around 2-3 minutes. This aeration is key for achieving that perfect chewy texture. Next, add in 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition until everything is fully combined and smooth.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the butter-sugar mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid over-mixing, as this could lead to denser cookies. You’ll know it’s ready when the dough is cohesive but still slightly sticky—this is where the deliciousness begins for your Tiramisu Christmas Cookies!
Step 5: Form Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Be sure to leave space between each cookie, approximately 2 inches apart, as they will spread during baking. Aim for consistency in size for even baking; this will showcase your beautiful Tiramisu Christmas Cookies when served!
Step 6: Bake
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. You’re looking for the edges to be firm while the centers remain slightly soft. This slight underbaking will ensure the cookies stay chewy and flavorful, mirroring the beloved dessert they celebrate—tiramisu.
Step 7: Cool Completely
After baking, allow the cookies to rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial; letting your Tiramisu Christmas Cookies cool will prevent the mascarpone frosting from melting off when you frost them later.
Step 8: Prepare Frosting
While the cookies cool, prepare the frosting. In a chilled mixing bowl, beat together 8 ounces of mascarpone cheese and 1 cup of heavy cream until combined. Gradually add ½ cup of powdered sugar to taste, mixing until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency that can be spread easily over your cookies.
Step 9: Frost Cookies
Once the cookies have cooled, spread a generous layer of frosting on top of each one. For the finishing touch, dust the frosted cookies with cocoa powder using a fine mesh sieve for a beautiful presentation. With each bite of these Tiramisu Christmas Cookies, guests will savor the delightful combination of flavors that reflect the classic dessert!
Make Ahead Options
These Tiramisu Christmas Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the hectic holiday season! You can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance; just be sure to cover it tightly to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can bake the cookies and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze them without frosting for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, simply thaw if frozen, frost the cooled cookies, and dust them with cocoa powder for that beautiful finish. This way, you can enjoy the rich flavors of Tiramisu Christmas Cookies without the last-minute rush!
Storage Tips for Tiramisu Christmas Cookies
Room Temperature: Store baked Tiramisu Christmas Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their chewiness and flavor.
Fridge: For a slightly firmer texture, keep the cookies in the refrigerator for up to 7 days; just be sure to seal them tightly to prevent drying out.
Freezer: Freeze the un-frosted cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before frosting.
Reheating: If you prefer warm cookies, briefly microwave them for 5-10 seconds before serving, but avoid reheating frosted cookies directly to maintain the frosting’s texture.
Tiramisu Christmas Cookies Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on these delightful cookies, making them uniquely yours while bursting with flavor!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with vegan butter and use dairy-free mascarpone or cream cheese for a delightful alternative.
- Nutty Twist: Add ½ cup of finely chopped hazelnuts or almonds to the dough to complement the coffee flavors with delightful crunch.
- Flavored Liqueur: Add a splash of Kahlua or amaretto in the frosting for an adult-approved twist that pairs perfectly with the espresso notes.
- Chocolate Delight: Stir in 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips into the dough for added indulgence and richness in every bite.
- Almond Extract: Replace vanilla extract with almond extract in the frosting for a unique flavor profile that beautifully contrasts with the coffee.
- Spicy Heat: Sprinkle a touch of cayenne pepper into the dry ingredients to elevate the cookie with a warm, spicy kick.
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour to transform this cookie for gluten-sensitive friends and family.
- Mini Tiramisu Bites: Create mini sandwich cookies by making smaller rounds of dough and adding a dollop of frosting between two cookies for a fun presentation.
Looking for even more festive inspiration? Don’t forget to explore our delicious Joy Christmas Fudge, which makes for a wonderful addition to your holiday treats!
What to Serve with Tiramisu Christmas Cookies
Indulging in these delightful cookies creates the perfect opportunity to craft a cozy and festive dessert spread that everyone will adore.
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Rich Coffee: Pairing freshly brewed coffee enhances the coffee flavor in the cookies while providing a warm, comforting element.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream balances the richness of the cookies, offering a delightful contrast in texture and taste.
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Chocolate Ganache Tart: This elegant tart complements the cocoa flavors in the cookies, making for a decadent duo that’s hard to resist. The smooth ganache creates a luxurious finish to the meal.
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Spiced Almond Milk: This warm drink adds a touch of holiday warmth, with its nutty and slightly spiced flavor perfectly complementing the cookie’s indulgence.
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Candied Citrus Peel: The zesty sweetness adds a fresh burst of flavor, cutting through the richness of the cookies and providing a beautiful pop of color on your dessert platter.
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Mulled Wine: This spiced, aromatic drink rounds out the holiday spirit while bringing a rich warmth that pairs seamlessly with the coffee notes in the cookies.
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Peppermint Hot Chocolate: A festive and creamy beverage choice that not only adds sweetness but also a refreshingly minty kick to your dessert experience.
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Gingerbread Cookies: For an irresistible holiday platter, serving traditional gingerbread cookies introduces warm spices that contrast beautifully with the flavors of Tiramisu Christmas Cookies.
Let your imagination run wild and mix and match these delightful pairings for a Christmas cookie feast that warms the heart!
Expert Tips for Tiramisu Christmas Cookies
- Butter Temperature: Ensure the butter is softened, not melted, to prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
- Cooling Time: Always let your cookies cool completely before frosting to maintain the creamy consistency of the mascarpone.
- Espresso Adjustments: If unsure about the coffee flavor, start with less espresso powder; you can always add more to taste in future batches.
- Baking Time: Keep a close eye on baking time. Remove the cookies when the edges are firm and the centers look slightly underbaked for that perfect chewy texture.
- Storage Tips: Store your Tiramisu Christmas Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their freshness and flavor for up to 5 days.
Tiramisu Christmas Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of espresso powder is best for Tiramisu Christmas Cookies?
I recommend using high-quality espresso powder for the best flavor infusion in your cookies. This gives them that rich coffee taste that embodies the traditional tiramisu essence. If you don’t have espresso powder on hand, instant coffee can work as a substitute—just keep in mind that the flavor will be milder.
How do I store Tiramisu Christmas Cookies to keep them fresh?
To maintain the freshness of your Tiramisu Christmas Cookies, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you’d like them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 7 days, just ensure they are well-sealed to prevent them from drying out.
Can I freeze the Tiramisu Christmas Cookies? If so, how?
Absolutely! I often freeze my cookies to enjoy later. To freeze un-frosted cookies, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer for about 1-2 hours. Once firm, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. These can be stored for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature and frost as desired.
What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your Tiramisu Christmas Cookies spread excessively, this is usually due to the butter being too soft. Make sure to use softened butter as specified—not melted. You can also chill the cookie dough for about 30 minutes before baking, which can help maintain their shape during baking. Additionally, ensure your baking soda is fresh, as old leavening agents can affect the structure.
Are Tiramisu Christmas Cookies safe for pets or those with allergies?
It’s important to note that these cookies contain chocolate, espresso, and dairy, which are not safe for pets, particularly dogs. If you are baking for someone with allergies, always check the specific ingredient labels—especially for butter or dairy—and consider making substitutions, such as using vegan butter and flax eggs for those allergic to dairy or eggs.
Can I modify the recipe for a vegan version?
Certainly! For a vegan version of Tiramisu Christmas Cookies, you can replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg, allowed to sit for a few minutes to thicken). Use vegan butter in place of unsalted butter, and for the frosting, replace mascarpone with a vegan cream cheese alternative for a dairy-free sweetness while still enjoying that rich flavor.
Decadent Tiramisu Christmas Cookies for Holiday Cheer
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Mix dry ingredients: in a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, espresso powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Cream butter and sugar in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy, then add eggs one at a time.
- Gradually mix dry ingredients with butter-sugar mixture until just combined.
- Scoop rounded balls of dough onto prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are firm and centers remain soft.
- Cool cookies on baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare frosting by beating mascarpone and heavy cream, then add powdered sugar to taste.
- Spread frosting on cooled cookies and dust with cocoa powder before serving.
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