Tiramisu Cookie Sandwiches

Imagine capturing all the flavors of a classic tiramisu—coffee, mascarpone cream, cocoa—and transforming them into elegant, handheld sandwich cookies. These Tiramisu Cookie Sandwiches do exactly that! Tender coffee-soaked ladyfingers are filled with a luscious mascarpone cream and dusted with cocoa for the perfect finishing touch. Each bite melts in your mouth, delivering that iconic balance of bold coffee, airy cream, and rich cocoa. The best part? They look incredibly sophisticated but are surprisingly easy to make at home.


Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • All the beloved flavors of tiramisu in a portable cookie form
  • Elegant and impressive, yet simple enough for home bakers
  • Can be made ahead—the flavor improves as they rest
  • No baking required, just assemble and chill
  • Perfect for dinner parties, holiday platters, or afternoon coffee breaks

Ingredients

  • Ladyfinger cookies – store-bought or homemade savoiardi
  • Mascarpone cheese – softened to room temperature for smooth mixing
  • Heavy cream – whipped to soft peaks for a light, airy texture
  • Granulated sugar – to gently sweeten the cream filling
  • Strong espresso – cooled completely, forms the soaking base
  • Coffee liqueur (optional) – adds depth and authentic tiramisu flavor
  • Cocoa powder – unsweetened Dutch-process for dusting

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Coffee Base
    Brew strong espresso and let it cool completely. Stir in coffee liqueur if using.
  2. Make the Mascarpone Cream
    Whip heavy cream to soft peaks. In another bowl, mix mascarpone with sugar, then gently fold in the whipped cream until smooth and airy.
  3. Soak and Assemble
    Dip each ladyfinger briefly into the coffee mixture—just enough to flavor without soaking through. Spread or pipe mascarpone cream onto one cookie, then sandwich with another.
  4. Chill to Set
    Place assembled sandwiches in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, so the flavors meld and the texture softens beautifully.
  5. Dust and Serve
    Before serving, dust generously with cocoa powder for that signature tiramisu finish.

You Must Know

  • Don’t oversoak the ladyfingers—they’ll fall apart. A quick dip is enough.
  • Use room-temperature mascarpone to avoid lumps in your filling.
  • Chill at least 2 hours for the best texture and flavor.
  • They taste even better the next day as the coffee and cream meld.

Storage Tips

  • Store covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Best enjoyed after at least a few hours of resting time.
  • Can be frozen up to 1 month, though texture may soften slightly once thawed.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • Skip coffee liqueur for an alcohol-free version; add vanilla extract instead.
  • Swap mascarpone for cream cheese in a pinch (though flavor will be tangier).
  • Use instant espresso powder dissolved in hot water if you don’t have an espresso machine.
  • Try cocoa nibs or grated chocolate instead of cocoa powder for topping.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with espresso or cappuccino for the ultimate Italian experience.
  • Serve alongside Moscato d’Asti, Vin Santo, or Port wine for dessert.
  • Add fresh raspberries or strawberries for a tart contrast.
  • Plate with a scoop of vanilla gelato or coffee granita in summer.

Cultural and Historical Context

Tiramisu, which means “pick me up” in Italian, originated in the Veneto region and became an international classic. These cookie sandwiches are a playful twist on the beloved dessert, offering all the flavors in a more casual, portable format—perfect for modern entertaining while still honoring its Italian roots.


Pro Tips
  • Use a piping bag for the mascarpone filling for neat, bakery-style sandwiches.
  • Make them a day ahead—time deepens the flavor.
  • Always dust cocoa powder right before serving to keep it fresh and bold.
  • If serving on a platter, separate layers with parchment to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions

→ How long should they chill before serving?
At least 2 hours, but overnight is even better.

→ Can I make these without alcohol?
Yes—just omit the liqueur and replace with extra espresso or vanilla extract.

→ How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

→ What if my mascarpone cream is too thick?
Stir in 1–2 tablespoons of milk or cream to loosen it.

→ Can I freeze tiramisu cookie sandwiches?
Yes, for up to 1 month, though the texture may soften slightly once thawed.


 These Tiramisu Cookie Sandwiches are a little taste of Italy reimagined—elegant, easy, and unforgettable. Perfect for when you want tiramisu without making a whole tray!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Tiramisu Cookie Sandwiches


  • Author: Linda
  • Total Time: 45 Minutes
  • Yield: 12 Servings 1x

Description

Coffee-soaked ladyfingers filled with creamy mascarpone and dusted with cocoa—an elegant Italian-inspired treat in cookie form.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 24 ladyfinger cookies

  • 1 cup strong espresso coffee, cooled

  • 8 oz mascarpone cheese, softened

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar

  • 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)


Instructions

  1. Brew strong espresso and let cool. Stir in coffee liqueur and set aside.

  2. Whip heavy cream until soft peaks form.

  3. In a separate bowl, beat mascarpone, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.

  4. Gently fold whipped cream into mascarpone mixture until light and creamy.

  5. Quickly dip ladyfingers into coffee mixture (don’t oversoak).

  6. Spread mascarpone cream on the flat side of one cookie, then top with another to form a sandwich. Repeat.

  7. Refrigerate sandwiches at least 2 hours (overnight for best flavor).

  8. Dust with cocoa powder before serving.

Notes

Do not oversoak ladyfingers—they’ll break apart.

Mascarpone should be at room temp for smooth mixing.

Chilling overnight enhances the flavor and texture.

Store in fridge, covered, for up to 3 days.

For alcohol-free version, replace liqueur with extra espresso.

  • Prep Time: 30 Minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 Minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Calories: 240kcal
  • Sugar: 16g
  • Sodium: 70mg
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating