If you have a soft spot for delicate desserts that combine elegance with bold flavor, then this Tiramisu Macarons Recipe is going to absolutely steal your heart. These airy, crisp-on-the-outside, chewy-on-the-inside macarons are infused with the rich espresso and cocoa notes of classic tiramisu, and filled with a luscious mascarpone cream that practically melts in your mouth. Each bite is a perfect harmony of texture and taste—a true celebration of two beloved treats coming together in one beautiful, bite-sized delight.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A metal tray filled with rows of light beige macarons, each macaron made of two round shells with a smooth top layer that has a slight sheen and some sprinkled cocoa powder on half of the shells. The filling between the shells varies: some have smooth dollops of cream in the center, while others have multiple small, round cream blobs arranged like a flower on the bottom shell. The tray sits on a white marbled surface, and the macarons are evenly spaced in a grid pattern. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

To create this stunning Tiramisu Macarons Recipe, you’ll gather a handful of essential ingredients that are beautifully simple yet vital for achieving that perfect texture and flavor balance. Each ingredient plays a starring role, contributing to the macaron’s delicate shell or the creamy tiramisu filling inside.

100 grams egg whites: These provide the structure and lightness for the delicate macaron shells through whipping into stiff peaks.
100 grams white granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and stabilizes the meringue to create that smooth, shiny finish.
105 grams almond flour: This finely ground flour gives macarons their signature nutty flavor and tender crumb.
105 grams powdered sugar: Helps create a smooth, glossy batter that bakes into those famously smooth macaron tops.
1/2 tsp espresso powder: Infuses that unmistakable coffee flavor, key to the tiramisu essence.
1 tbsp cocoa powder: Adds a subtle, bitter chocolate hint and a dusting of romance to the shells.
1/4 cup whipping cream (very cold): Whipped to perfection for a rich, airy filling that mimics tiramisu creaminess.
6 oz mascarpone cheese (cold): A must-have for creamy, luxurious filling that brings authentic tiramisu vibes.
1 cup powdered sugar (sifted): Sweetens the filling while creating that smooth texture everyone loves.
2 tsp Kahlua: This coffee-flavored liqueur provides that classic adult twist to balance the sweetness beautifully.

How to Make Tiramisu Macarons Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Macaron Shells

Start by assembling all your ingredients and prepping your space—line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats, and prepare a piping bag fitted with a large round tip. Sift the almond flour and powdered sugar together to ensure a lump-free, silky base for the shells.

Step 2: Whip the Meringue

In a heatproof bowl over simmering water, gently whisk the egg whites and granulated sugar until completely dissolved and frothy. Be careful not to overheat to avoid a wrinkly shell result. Transfer to a stand mixer and whisk on low to medium until stiff, glossy peaks form—this glossy texture is your macaron magic in the making.

Step 3: Fold the Dry Ingredients

Gently fold the sifted dry mixture into the meringue using a spatula, forming a letter ‘J’ motion to preserve the airiness. The perfect batter is glossy yet flows slowly off the spatula—run a few tests with a spoon to fine-tune the consistency. Just before piping, fold in the espresso powder for charming speckled shells.

Step 4: Pipe and Dry

Pipe uniform circles onto the lined trays, using a template underneath if you have one. Tap the trays firmly against the counter to release air bubbles and use a toothpick to pop any that rise to the surface. Dust the tops lightly with cocoa powder and let the shells sit to form a dry skin—usually 20 to 40 minutes depending on humidity—until they no longer stick to your finger.

Step 5: Bake Macarons

Preheat your oven to 300ºF and bake one tray at a time for about 18 minutes, rotating halfway. The baked shells should form delicate feet and show no wobble when touched. Let them cool completely before adding the filling.

Step 6: Prepare the Mascarpone Filling

Whip very cold heavy cream to stiff peaks without overwhipping. Add cold mascarpone, sifted powdered sugar, and Kahlua, whipping again gently to create a creamy, smooth tiramisu-inspired filling ready to be piped.

Step 7: Assemble the Macarons

Fill a piping bag with the mascarpone mixture and pipe a dollop onto the flat side of one macaron shell before sandwiching with its pair. Press lightly to spread filling evenly without cracking the shell.

How to Serve Tiramisu Macarons Recipe

The image shows many round light beige macarons arranged on a wooden board and white marbled surface. Each macaron has two smooth, slightly shiny cookie layers with tiny speckles and a cream filling made of small dollops in the middle. The top cookie layers are dusted with a fine dark brown powder, giving them a textured look. The macarons appear soft and delicate, and the photo is taken at a close angle highlighting their smooth texture and details. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple dusting of cocoa powder or a few espresso beans on top adds an elegant finishing touch. You can also sprinkle finely grated dark chocolate for an extra pop of cocoa richness that draws attention to the coffee-inspired flavor.

Side Dishes

These macarons shine best on their own as a petite indulgence alongside a cup of strong espresso or cappuccino. They also make a sophisticated companion to a light fruit salad or a small glass of dessert wine for gatherings.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking them in a beautiful tiered display or arranging them on a mirrored tray lined with espresso powder dust for an eye-catching effect. Wrapping them individually in clear boxes tied with ribbon makes a perfect gift or party favor that’s as delightful to look at as to eat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These Tiramisu Macarons Recipe treats keep brilliantly for up to 4-5 days when stored in an airtight container in the fridge. The filling remains creamy and fresh, ensuring every bite is just as divine as the first.

Freezing

While it’s best not to freeze the filled macarons because of the mascarpone cream, you can freeze the unfilled shells for up to 3 months. Thaw them completely before filling to maintain their delicate texture.

Reheating

Macarons are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so avoid reheating. If they feel slightly firm from the fridge, let them sit out for 15 minutes to regain that perfect chewiness before serving.

FAQs

Can I make the macaron shells without espresso powder?

Absolutely! Omitting espresso powder will give the shells a more neutral flavor and lighter color, but adding it enhances the tiramisu essence with that lovely coffee note.

Is it okay to use Kahlua substitute or omit the liqueur?

Yes, you can replace Kahlua with another coffee liqueur or a splash of strong brewed espresso for a non-alcoholic version without compromising the signature flavor.

Why do some macarons have hollow shells?

Hollow shells often result from improper mixing, insufficient drying before baking, or incorrect oven temperature. Make sure to fold the batter to the right consistency and let the shells dry completely to form a strong skin.

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

The mascarpone filling is best made fresh and piped right away, as it can lose its texture if stored for too long before assembly. However, the filled macarons keep well refrigerated for a few days.

What if the macaron shells crack while baking?

Cracking usually means the shells dried out too much before baking or that the oven temperature is too high. Try baking at a slightly lower temperature and adjusting the drying time based on your kitchen humidity.

Final Thoughts

This Tiramisu Macarons Recipe is a delightful way to impress friends and family with a sophisticated dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. With its perfect balance of coffee, cocoa, and creamy mascarpone, these macarons put a charming twist on two classic favorites. I encourage you to dive in, enjoy the process, and treat yourself to these little bites of joy that celebrate every sweet moment.