As I stirred the buttery dough, a memory whisked me away to cheerful holiday gatherings, where laughter mingled with the aroma of freshly baked treats. Enter the Tiramisu Christmas Cookies—a delightful fusion of rich espresso and creamy mascarpone, making them an easy-baking wonder for your festive table. These cookies bring indulgence without the fuss—perfectly chewy and sure to impress guests all season long. Imagine the delight on everyone’s faces as they savor this coffee-flavored treat, a fun twist on a classic dessert. Ready to make some scrumptious memories this holiday season?
Why Try Tiramisu Christmas Cookies?
Irresistible combination: These cookies offer the beloved flavors of traditional tiramisu transformed into a chewy treat everyone will adore.
Simple baking process: A straightforward recipe means even novice bakers can whip up a batch for holiday festivities.
Delightful versatility: Customize with chocolate chips or flavored frostings to please any palate, making them a crowd favorite!
Perfect for sharing: Present them on a festive cookie platter along with Christmas Trifle Layers or Drops Thumbprint Cookies to impress your guests.
Make-ahead option: Freeze dough balls and bake fresh cookies on demand—ideal for spontaneous get-togethers! Enjoy the warmth, cheer, and magical memories these Tiramisu Christmas Cookies bring to your holiday celebrations.
Tiramisu Christmas Cookies Ingredients
For the Dough
- Butter – Provides richness and moisture; use unsalted butter for better control over salt levels.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and aids in the cookie’s structure; brown sugar could be used for a richer flavor.
- Brown Sugar – Contributes moisture and hints of caramel; can be substituted with white sugar for a less robust flavor.
- Eggs – Binds ingredients together; ensure they are at room temperature for better incorporation.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor; vanilla bean paste can provide a more intense flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour – The main structure component; ensure it is fluffed and leveled when measuring.
- Espresso Powder – For a deep coffee flavor; can substitute with instant coffee but adjust to taste.
- Baking Powder – Aids in leavening; ensure it’s fresh for optimal rising.
For the Frosting
- Mascarpone Cheese – Provides creaminess; full-fat cream cheese is a good alternative if unavailable.
- Heavy Cream – For the frosting; use cold cream for best whipping results.
- Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness; adjust the quantity based on desired sweetness level.
For Dusting
- Cocoa Powder – For dusting; Dutch-process cocoa can provide a smoother chocolate taste, adding depth to the flavor.
These Tiramisu Christmas Cookies are not just about indulgence; they encapsulate the spirit of togetherness that the holidays bring. Enjoy baking this delightful treat that will spark joy and create cherished memories around your table!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Tiramisu Christmas Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Begin by creaming 1 cup of softened unsalted butter with ¾ cup granulated sugar and ¾ cup brown sugar in a large mixing bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Then, beat in 2 large eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated, followed by 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Gradually add 2 cups of all-purpose flour combined with 2 tablespoons of espresso powder and 1 teaspoon of baking powder. Mix until just combined to create a sticky dough.
Step 2: Chill
Once your dough for Tiramisu Christmas Cookies is fully mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step is crucial as it helps the dough firm up, preventing excessive spreading during baking. After the allotted time, the dough should feel slightly more solid to the touch and ready to shape into cookie balls.
Step 3: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the dough chills. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Once the dough is chilled, scoop rounded tablespoons onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set but still soft. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking!
Step 4: Cool
After baking, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This allows them to firm up slightly before transferring. Using a spatula, gently move them to a wire rack for complete cooling. The cookies should feel soft yet manageable, indicating perfect doneness.
Step 5: Make the Frosting
While the cookies cool, prepare the frosting by whipping together 1 cup of mascarpone cheese, 1 cup of heavy cream, and 2 cups of powdered sugar in a mixing bowl. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to whisk until the mixture is smooth and spreadable, approximately 3-4 minutes. The frosting should be creamy and thick but still pourable.
Step 6: Frost & Decorate
Once your Tiramisu Christmas Cookies have fully cooled, generously frost each cookie with the mascarpone mixture using a spatula or a piping bag for a decorative touch. After frosting, lightly dust the tops with cocoa powder for a finishing touch that enhances both presentation and flavor. Serve these delightful cookies immediately, or store them in an airtight container to relish later.
Make Ahead Options
These Tiramisu Christmas Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix all your ingredients and refrigerate the dough, tightly wrapped in plastic wrap to maintain its freshness, preventing it from drying out. Alternatively, you can freeze unbaked dough balls for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just scoop the chilled or frozen dough onto a baking sheet and bake as instructed, adding an extra minute or two for frozen dough. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious cookies with minimal effort, ensuring your holiday gatherings are delightful and stress-free!
How to Store and Freeze Tiramisu Christmas Cookies
Airtight Container: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their chewy texture.
Fridge: For extra freshness, refrigerate cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week; simply bring them to room temperature before serving.
Freezer: Freeze unfrosted Tiramisu Christmas Cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating: If you prefer warm cookies, reheat from frozen in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes, or until warmed through.
What to Serve with Tiramisu Christmas Cookies?
The warmth of the kitchen comes alive with delightful flavors and comforting textures, perfect for your holiday celebrations.
- Rich Chocolate Cake: This indulgent dessert complements the coffee notes of the cookies and adds a decadent layer to your festive spread.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream balances the cookies’ rich flavor, creating a heavenly experience. It’s the classic pairing that never disappoints!
- Espresso: Serve a shot of strong espresso alongside your cookies, enhancing the coffee flavor and offering a delightful post-meal treat. It’s a bold companion that coffee lovers will adore.
- Spiced Apple Cider: The warm spices in the cider create a cozy, seasonal ambiance, harmonizing beautifully with the flavors of your Tiramisu Christmas Cookies.
- Hazelnut Crunch Biscotti: These crunchy treats provide a delightful contrast, echoing the cookie’s coffee essence while adding an extra textural element to your spread.
- Mini Fruit Tarts: Their fruity freshness lightens the dessert table, offering a vibrant burst of flavor that beautifully balances the richness of the cookies.
- Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: Their sweetness pairs perfectly, adding a fresh and fruity touch that complements the bold coffee notes in your cookies.
- Peppermint Hot Chocolate: This festive drink offers a sweet, minty counterpart, making each bite of Tiramisu Christmas Cookies even more joyful.
- Holiday Cheesecake: The creamy richness and festive flavors of a seasonal cheesecake create a luxurious dessert experience that will impress your guests.
Expert Tips for Tiramisu Christmas Cookies
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Perfecting Texture: Make sure your butter is just softened; overly warm butter will create flat cookies. Aim for a creamy yet slightly firm texture.
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Chilling is Key: Always refrigerate the dough for the right amount of time. This prevents spreading and helps achieve the chewy consistency of Tiramisu Christmas Cookies.
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Measure Accurately: Use a kitchen scale if possible. Accurate measurements of flour and sugar can significantly affect the cookie’s texture and taste.
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Frosting Consistency: If your frosting is too runny, chill it for a bit or gradually incorporate more powdered sugar until you reach a spreadable consistency.
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Flavor Variations: Don’t be afraid to experiment! Try adding a splash of almond extract or mixing in chocolate chips for a delightful twist on these Tiramisu Christmas Cookies.
Tiramisu Christmas Cookies Variations
Customize your Tiramisu Christmas Cookies to suit your taste and dietary preferences!
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Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend to cater to gluten sensitivities without losing flavor.
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Choco Espresso Bliss: Mix in ½ cup of chocolate chips for a delightful twist that marries coffee and chocolate in every bite. Think of them as a little extra holiday magic!
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Nutty Addition: Toss in chopped nuts like walnuts or hazelnuts for a crunchy contrast to the chewy cookie base, adding both texture and flavor complexity.
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Minty Fresh: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the frosting for a refreshing peppermint mocha vibe—perfect for the festive season!
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Spiced Cookie: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough to evoke warm, cozy holiday spices. This twist will warm your heart with every bite.
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Vegan Option: Replace eggs with ground flaxseed and use coconut cream instead of mascarpone for a vegan-friendly version that still tastes incredible. It’s a great way to include everyone in the celebration!
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Savory Touch: Incorporate a touch of sea salt in the frosting to enhance the sweetness and create a delightful contrast that will leave everyone asking for more.
Add your personal touch and enjoy sharing these festive delights, just like a warm cup of cocoa among friends—after all, they pair perfectly with a decadent Joy Christmas Fudge or a festive Christmas Trifle Layers for a truly delightful holiday spread!
Tiramisu Christmas Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of butter should I use for Tiramisu Christmas Cookies?
For the best results, I recommend using unsalted butter. This allows you to control the salt levels better and enhances the cookies’ flavor without making them overly salty. When creaming the butter with sugars, aim for it to be just softened—not melted—to achieve the right texture.
How should I store Tiramisu Christmas Cookies?
Store your Tiramisu Christmas Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them soft and chewy. If you want to extend their shelf life, pop them in the refrigerator where they can last for about a week. Just be sure to bring them back to room temperature before indulging for optimal flavor!
Can I freeze Tiramisu Christmas Cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unfrosted cookies for up to 3 months. To do this, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, you can bake from frozen; just add an extra minute or two to the baking time for fresh cookies in no time!
What can I do if my frosting is too runny?
If you find your mascarpone frosting is too runny, no worries! Start by chilling the frosting in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes; this helps thicken it up. If it’s still not the right consistency, gradually add more powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired thickness. Frost your cookies once you’ve achieved a nice, creamy spread.
Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies?
When making Tiramisu Christmas Cookies, be mindful if serving to those with allergies. The recipe includes dairy (butter, eggs, mascarpone, and heavy cream), so it’s not suitable for those with dairy allergies. For a gluten-free version, you can substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour! Always check labels for any allergens in products used, especially with the mascarpone cheese.
Tiramisu Christmas Cookies: Chewy Coffee Delights to Savor
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cream 1 cup of softened unsalted butter with ¾ cup granulated sugar and ¾ cup brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in 2 large eggs one at a time, then add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Gradually add 2 cups of all-purpose flour combined with 2 tablespoons of espresso powder and 1 teaspoon of baking powder.
- Mix until just combined to create a sticky dough.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden and centers are set but still soft.
- Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prepare frosting by whipping together 1 cup mascarpone cheese, 1 cup heavy cream, and 2 cups powdered sugar until creamy and thick.
- Frost each cooled cookie generously and dust with cocoa powder.
- Serve immediately or store in an airtight container.
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