Tiramisu Crinkle Cookies

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Tiramisu Crinkle Cookies bring the luxurious, coffee-kissed creaminess of the classic Italian dessert into a soft, chewy cookie with a crinkled powdered sugar exterior. These cookies are rich, tender, and packed with flavor — from espresso notes to mascarpone-style tang, and a subtle cocoa finish. Imagine your favorite tiramisu layered into every bite, but portable and sharable.

Perfect for holidays or a cozy weekend treat, these cookies pair beautifully with a latte or a glass of dessert wine. Plus, they look stunning with their crackled powdered sugar tops — like little snow-dusted bites of heaven. No need for a spoon or dish, just a hand and a napkin!

What Kind of Cocoa or Coffee Should I Use?

For the deep tiramisu essence, you’ll want unsweetened Dutch-processed cocoa powder and instant espresso powder. The cocoa adds richness while the espresso sharpens the depth and mimics the bold espresso-soaked ladyfingers from traditional tiramisu.

If you only have regular cocoa powder or instant coffee, they will still work, but the flavor might be slightly milder. For best results, stick with the dark cocoa and espresso combo.

Ingredients for the Tiramisu Crinkle Cookies

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp instant espresso powder
• 2 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup mascarpone cheese (or sub extra cream cheese)
• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)

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How To Make the Tiramisu Crinkle Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This creates the base for a tender cookie texture.

Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients

Mix in the eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract and the instant espresso powder. Then add the cream cheese and mascarpone, beating until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Sift and Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the dough for at least 2 hours, or overnight. This prevents the cookies from spreading too much and helps create the classic crinkle texture.

Step 5: Preheat Oven and Prepare Cookie Sheets

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop the dough into tablespoon-sized balls and roll each in powdered sugar until generously coated.

Step 6: Bake and Cool

Place dough balls on the baking sheet about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes until puffed and crackled. Let cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

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How to Serve and Store These Cookies

Serve these cookies slightly warm for maximum softness, or at room temperature for a firmer, chewy bite. They’re dreamy with espresso or milk.

To store, keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the dough balls after rolling in powdered sugar—bake straight from frozen, just add an extra 1-2 minutes of bake time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use all cream cheese instead of mascarpone?

Yes! If mascarpone isn’t available, use all cream cheese. The texture stays rich and creamy, though the flavor leans a little tangier.

Can I freeze the baked cookies?

You can, though fresh is best. If freezing, stack them between parchment sheets in a container and bring to room temperature before serving.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Reducing the sugar will affect texture and crackle appearance. For best results, use the full amount.

Are these cookies caffeinated?

Each cookie contains a small amount of espresso powder, so there is minimal caffeine. They’re generally fine for kids but use decaf espresso powder if you’re concerned.

Can I add chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Mini chocolate chips make a lovely addition and melt into the dough for extra indulgence.

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Want More Cookie Ideas with a Twist?

If these tiramisu crinkle cookies made your day, check out these other delicious bakes:

• Chocolate Peanut Butter Dream Bars
• Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
• Healthy Cookies Recipe
• Pistachio Cheesecake Brownies
• Sopapilla Cheesecake Bars

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And when you bake them, I want to hear all about it. Did you go all-in on the espresso, or try a chocolate chip twist? Share your cookie wins and questions in the comments!

For more recipe inspiration, head over to my Pinterest @NinaDishes and follow along!

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