If you love tiramisu and dreamy dessert mashups, you’re in for an utter treat with these Tiramisu Sandwich Cookies. Imagine the rich, coffee-kissed essence of a classic tiramisu, but in cookie form: tender, chocolatey cookies with just the right hint of coffee, sandwiching a silky mascarpone filling and a whisper of espresso syrup. It’s a handheld taste of Italy that’s sure to turn any ordinary moment (or gathering!) into something truly special.

Tiramisu Sandwich Cookies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of these Tiramisu Sandwich Cookies is in the simplicity of high-quality ingredients coming together. Each one brings a distinct flavor or texture, so don’t skip or swap if you can help it.

All-purpose flour: The backbone of our cookie, giving just the right tender crumb.

Granulated sugar: Essential for sweetness and browning in both the cookie and syrup.
Unsalted butter (room temperature): Soft butter makes creaming a breeze and gives that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Large egg: Adds moisture and structure, helping bind everything together.
Instant coffee granules: The secret weapon for that unmistakable tiramisu coffee flavor.

Cocoa powder (plus extra for dusting): Deepens the chocolate note, nodding to the cocoa-sprinkled top of traditional tiramisu.
Mascarpone cheese: Luxuriously creamy and slightly tangy, it’s the soul of tiramisu in the filling.
Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors and mellows the coffee and cocoa.

Espresso or strong brewed coffee (for syrup): Essential for soaking up those tiramisu vibes and adding moisture.
Sugar (for syrup): Balances the espresso’s intensity and gives the syrup a glossy finish.

How to Make Tiramisu Sandwich Cookies

Step 1: Prep Your Tools and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper—trust me, this makes cleanup way easier and ensures the cookies don’t stick.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, instant coffee granules, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt. Combining these first ensures the coffee and cocoa are distributed evenly, so you’ll get that signature tiramisu flavor in every bite.

Step 3: Cream the Wet Ingredients

In another larger bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step sets the stage for tender cookies. Add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is fully combined and smooth.

Step 4: Bring the Batter Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients to your butter mixture. Go slowly, mixing until just combined—you don’t want to overwork the dough, which could make the cookies tough.

Step 5: Shape and Bake

Scoop heaping teaspoons of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, leaving about two inches between each (they will spread a bit). Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges look set but the centers remain a touch soft—this is how you get that tender, cake-like texture reminiscent of tiramisu. Cool completely on racks before moving on.

Step 6: Make the Syrup

While the cookies cool, stir together your brewed espresso (or strong coffee) and sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Warm until the sugar dissolves completely, then let the syrup cool slightly. This syrup is going to infuse your sandwich cookies with that classic tiramisu moisture and depth.

Step 7: Assemble the Cookies

Take half your cookies and spread a thick layer of mascarpone on the flat side of each. Drizzle or brush with a touch of cooled espresso syrup. Top with another cookie to create a perfect Tiramisu Sandwich Cookie! Finally, dust with extra cocoa powder for that signature finish.

How to Serve Tiramisu Sandwich Cookies

Garnishes

For a true tiramisu-inspired look, a generous dusting of unsweetened cocoa powder right before serving makes these sandwich cookies look as irresistible as they taste. You can also add a light cloud of powdered sugar, a few coffee beans, or even a swirl of chocolate sauce for extra flair.

Side Dishes

These Tiramisu Sandwich Cookies shine with a simple espresso or cappuccino on the side. For a dessert board, pair them with chocolate-dipped strawberries, almond biscotti, or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to round out your sweet spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Line them up on a pretty platter, stack them in glass jars for gifting, or serve them atop mini cake stands for an elegant afternoon tea. For parties, you could even package individual cookies in cellophane with a ribbon—they’re the ultimate homemade favor!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Tiramisu Sandwich Cookies can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Refrigeration helps the flavors meld beautifully, but don’t be surprised if you find them disappearing before then!

Freezing

To freeze, wrap the assembled sandwich cookies individually in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to two months. Let them thaw in the fridge for a few hours when you’re ready to indulge for the best taste and texture.

Reheating

These cookies are best served chilled or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t necessary. If you prefer a slightly softened filling, let them sit at room temp for 10 to 15 minutes before serving.

FAQs

Can I use cream cheese instead of mascarpone?

Yes, in a pinch you can swap in full-fat cream cheese for the mascarpone, though the flavor will be tangier and less traditional. For a closer match, stir in a tablespoon or two of heavy cream to smooth out the cream cheese.

How strong is the coffee flavor in these cookies?

The coffee flavor is present but not overpowering, just enough to let you know you’re enjoying tiramisu-inspired cookies. If you’re a serious coffee lover, you can add an extra half teaspoon of instant coffee granules to the dough or brush on a little more syrup.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute your favorite all-purpose gluten-free flour blend in place of the regular flour. Just be sure to check that all other ingredients (like baking powder or cocoa) are gluten-free as well.

How far in advance can I assemble these cookies?

You can assemble the cookies up to a day in advance. The cookies will soften slightly as they sit with the mascarpone and syrup, making them even more reminiscent of traditional tiramisu.

What if I don’t have espresso—can I use regular coffee?

Yes! Strongly brewed coffee works very well in the syrup. Just make sure it’s bold enough to impart that signature tiramisu kick without watering down the flavor.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving comfort and just a bit of culinary magic, these Tiramisu Sandwich Cookies are destined to be your new go-to treat. There’s something so delightful about their tender texture and coffee-kissed creaminess. I hope you’ll give them a try soon and spread the joy—there’s nothing better than sharing them with someone who loves a sweet surprise!