If you love classic tiramisu and soft sandwich cookies, these Tiramisu Whoopie Pies combine the best of both desserts into one irresistible treat.
Featuring soft espresso-flavored chocolate cakes filled with creamy mascarpone frosting and a light dusting of cocoa powder, this easy tiramisu whoopie pie recipe is perfect for parties, holidays, coffee dates, or elegant dessert tables.
This step-by-step guide walks you through how to make homemade tiramisu whoopie pies with bakery-quality results using simple pantry ingredients.
Why You’ll Love These Tiramisu Whoopie Pies
These Italian-inspired whoopie pies are a modern twist on traditional tiramisu, delivering the same beloved flavors in a handheld dessert format.
Reasons this recipe stands out:
- Soft, bakery-style whoopie pie texture
- Classic tiramisu flavors with espresso and mascarpone
- Perfect make-ahead dessert
- Ideal for holidays, parties, and dessert trays
- Easy step-by-step beginner-friendly instructions
Ingredients for Tiramisu Whoopie Pies
Using quality ingredients ensures the best flavor and texture.
Espresso Cake Cookies
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder
- 1 cup buttermilk
Mascarpone Cream Filling
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon espresso powder (optional)
Finishing
- Unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting
How to Make Tiramisu Whoopie Pies (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Proper preparation ensures evenly baked cookies and prevents sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures the dry ingredients distribute evenly for a smooth batter.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
Proper creaming creates the soft, cake-like texture that makes whoopie pies unique.
Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Add Espresso Flavor
Dissolve the espresso powder into the buttermilk, then alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk mixture to the batter, mixing just until combined.
Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
Step 5: Bake the Whoopie Pie Cookies
Using a cookie scoop, drop evenly sized portions of batter onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the tops spring back lightly when touched.
Allow the cookies to cool completely before filling.
Step 6: Prepare the Mascarpone Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat heavy cream until soft peaks form. In another bowl, whisk mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and optional espresso powder until smooth.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until light and fluffy.
This creamy filling mimics the traditional tiramisu mascarpone cream.
Step 7: Assemble the Whoopie Pies
Match cookies of similar size. Spread or pipe a generous layer of mascarpone filling onto the flat side of one cookie, then gently press another cookie on top to form a sandwich.
Repeat until all cookies are assembled.
Step 8: Dust with Cocoa Powder
Lightly dust the tops with cocoa powder for the signature tiramisu finish.
For best flavor, refrigerate the assembled whoopie pies for 30 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set.
Pro Tips for Perfect Tiramisu Whoopie Pies
- Use room-temperature butter for proper creaming.
- Do not overbake; the cookies should remain soft.
- Chill the filling briefly if it becomes too soft for piping.
- Use high-quality espresso powder for authentic tiramisu flavor.
- Assemble cookies once fully cooled to prevent melting filling.
Serving Suggestions
These tiramisu sandwich cookies pair beautifully with:
- Espresso or cappuccino
- After-dinner coffee desserts
- Holiday dessert platters
- Wedding or party dessert tables
They also make excellent edible gifts when packaged in bakery boxes.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Store assembled whoopie pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, keep cookies and filling separate and assemble before serving for the freshest texture.
Unfilled cookies can also be frozen for up to 2 months, making this an excellent make-ahead tiramisu
Easy Recipe Variations
- Classic Tiramisu Version: Brush cookies lightly with espresso syrup before filling.
- Chocolate Lover’s Version: Add mini chocolate chips to the filling.
- Alcohol-Inspired Version: Add a small splash of coffee liqueur to the mascarpone cream.
- Mini Whoopie Pies: Use smaller scoops for bite-size party desserts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do tiramisu whoopie pies taste like traditional tiramisu?
Yes. The combination of espresso, cocoa, and mascarpone filling recreates the classic tiramisu flavor profile in cookie form.
Can I substitute cream cheese for mascarpone?
Mascarpone provides the most authentic taste, but cream cheese can be used for a slightly tangier filling.
Why are my whoopie pies dry?
Overbaking is the most common cause. Remove cookies as soon as they spring back lightly when touched.
Final Thoughts
These Tiramisu Whoopie Pies bring together the elegance of Italian tiramisu and the nostalgic charm of classic whoopie pies into one unforgettable dessert.
With soft espresso-infused cookies, silky mascarpone cream filling, and a delicate cocoa finish, this recipe delivers bakery-quality results that are surprisingly simple to make at home.
Whether you’re preparing desserts for entertaining, holiday baking, or a coffee-themed dessert spread, these indulgent treats are guaranteed to impress every guest.