Melt-in-your-mouth Espresso Shortbread Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavor of espresso with the sweetness of chocolate toffee bits. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies can elevate your dessert table and impress your guests. With their tender crumb and aromatic coffee notes, they are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: This recipe requires minimal effort and time, making it accessible for both novice and experienced bakers.
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of espresso and chocolate toffee creates a unique taste that’s both rich and satisfying.
• Versatile Cookie: These cookies can be enjoyed year-round, whether it’s for holiday gatherings or a casual afternoon treat.
• Perfectly Dusty Finish: A light dusting of confectioners’ sugar adds an elegant touch to these cookies, making them visually appealing as well.
• Long-lasting Freshness: Stored properly, these cookies remain delicious for weeks, allowing you to enjoy them at your leisure.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather the necessary tools. This will help streamline your preparation and ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Electric mixer
• Gallon-size zipper-lock plastic bag
• Parchment paper
• Sharp knife or cookie cutter
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: This tool saves time by quickly beating butter and sugar together until fluffy.
• Gallon-size zipper-lock plastic bag: It allows you to roll the dough easily without mess, plus it helps in chilling the dough effectively.
• Parchment paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment prevents sticking and ensures even baking.
• Wire rack: Cooling on a wire rack allows air circulation around the cookies, keeping them crisp.

this recipe

Ingredients

Melt-in-your-mouth espresso cookies studded with chocolate toffee bits.

For the Cookie Dough

• 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder
• 1 tablespoon boiling water
• 1 cup butter (unsalted, room temperature)
• 2/3 cup confectioners’ sugar plus extra for dusting
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 chocolate covered toffee bar, 3.5-4 ounces, finely chopped

How to Make Espresso Shortbread Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Espresso Mixture

1. In a very small bowl, dissolve the espresso powder in the boiling water.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

1. In the bowl of an electric mixer, beat butter and confectioners’ sugar for 3 minutes at medium speed until fluffy.

Step 3: Add Vanilla and Espresso

1. Add the vanilla extract and espresso mixture to the butter-sugar blend.
2. Beat until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Flour

1. Gradually add the all-purpose flour while mixing at low speed.
2. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing.

Step 5: Fold in Toffee Bits

1. Gently fold in the finely chopped chocolate-covered toffee bar using a spatula or wooden spoon.

Step 6: Shape the Dough

1. Transfer the cookie dough into a gallon-size zipper-lock plastic bag without closing it.
2. Roll out the dough into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick (approximately 9 inches by 11 inches). Ensure there are no creases from wrinkles in the plastic.

Step 7: Chill

1. Seal the bag by removing as much air as possible.
2. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 2 days.

Step 8: Preheat Oven

1. When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 325 degrees F.
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 9: Cut Cookies

1. Cut open the zip lock bag and place the rolled dough rectangle on a cutting board.
2. Use a sharp knife or cookie cutter to cut into desired shapes before transferring them onto the prepared cookie sheet.

Step 10: Create Holes

1. Use a fork to poke holes in each cookie for decoration.

Step 11: Bake

1. Bake in preheated oven for about 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden around edges.

Step 12: Dust with Sugar

1. Remove from oven; dust immediately with confectioners’ sugar while still hot.

Step 13: Cool Completely

1. Let cookies cool completely on a wire rack before storing them away in an airtight container for up to three weeks.

Enjoy these delightful Espresso Shortbread Cookies, perfect for sharing or indulging alone!

How to Serve Espresso Shortbread Cookies

Espresso shortbread cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Their rich coffee flavor pairs wonderfully with many accompaniments, making them perfect for any occasion.

With a Warm Beverage

• Coffee: Pairing these cookies with a hot cup of coffee enhances the espresso flavor, making for a cozy snack.
• Tea: A soothing cup of tea complements the buttery texture of the cookies, creating a balanced experience.

As a Dessert Platter

• Cookie Assortment: Include these cookies on a platter with other favorites like chocolate chip and oatmeal raisin for variety.
• Cheese Board: Add them to a cheese board alongside soft cheeses and fruits for an interesting contrast.

For Celebrations

• Gift Packaging: Package the cookies in decorative boxes or bags as thoughtful gifts for friends and family during holidays.
• Party Treats: Serve them at gatherings or parties, offering guests a sweet treat that pairs well with drinks.

How to Perfect Espresso Shortbread Cookies

Perfecting your espresso shortbread cookies is simple with just a few tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your cookies come out delicious every time.

• Bold Coffee Flavor: Use high-quality instant espresso for a more robust flavor in your cookies.
• Chill the Dough: Allow the dough to chill for at least 2 hours; this helps develop flavors and makes it easier to cut.
• Even Thickness: Roll the dough evenly to about ¼ inch thick for consistent baking results.
• Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking; they should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center.
• Dusting Technique: Dust with confectioners’ sugar while still warm so it adheres better to the surface.

Best Side Dishes for Espresso Shortbread Cookies

Espresso shortbread cookies can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their flavors and textures. Here are some suggestions to consider:

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits offers a light contrast to the richness of the cookies.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a nutritious side that balances sweetness with tartness.
3. Chocolate Fondue: Provide melted chocolate for dipping; this adds an indulgent twist to your cookie experience.
4. Ice Cream Scoop: Serve with a scoop of vanilla or coffee-flavored ice cream for an extra creamy dessert option.
5. Nuts and Dried Fruits Platter: A selection of nuts and dried fruits provides crunchy texture and natural sweetness alongside the cookies.
6. Cheese Straws: These savory snacks offer a nice contrast to the sweet shortbread, making them great companions at gatherings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Espresso Shortbread Cookies can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Not measuring accurately: Precision is key in baking. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure you have the right amounts of each ingredient.
• Ignoring room temperature ingredients: If your butter isn’t at room temperature, it will not cream properly with sugar. Let it sit out for about 30 minutes before starting.
• Over-mixing the dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Only mix until ingredients are just combined for a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking. Don’t rush this step; refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
• Using stale ingredients: Check that your baking powder and other ingredients are fresh. Stale ingredients can affect the taste and texture of your cookies.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 weeks.
• For longer freshness, consider wrapping them in plastic wrap before placing them in the container.

Freezing Espresso Shortbread Cookies

• Wrap cookies individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Espresso Shortbread Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 300°F and warm cookies for about 5 minutes for best texture.
• Microwave: Heat on low power for about 10 seconds; keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat for a minute or two, covered to retain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Espresso Shortbread Cookies.

Can I use decaf espresso powder?

Yes, decaf espresso powder works perfectly if you prefer a caffeine-free option.

How do I customize my Espresso Shortbread Cookies?

You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or even spices like cinnamon to vary the flavors according to your taste.

What’s the best way to serve these cookies?

These cookies pair wonderfully with coffee or tea and make great gifts during holidays or special occasions.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.

Final Thoughts

These Espresso Shortbread Cookies are sure to impress with their rich flavor and delicate texture. They are versatile enough to customize with your favorite add-ins. Whether enjoying them during a cozy afternoon or gifting them during special occasions, they are bound to be a hit!

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Espresso Shortbread Cookies

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x

Print Recipe

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Description

Indulge in the delightful experience of Espresso Shortbread Cookies, where rich espresso flavor meets the sweetness of chocolate toffee bits. These melt-in-your-mouth cookies are perfect for any occasion, from casual afternoon snacks to elegant dessert tables. Their tender crumb and aromatic coffee notes will surely impress your guests and become a staple in your baking collection. Plus, with a light dusting of confectioners’ sugar, they look as good as they taste! Easy to prepare and versatile enough for year-round enjoyment, these cookies are a must-try for any baking enthusiast.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder
• 1 tablespoon boiling water
• 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 2/3 cup confectioners’ sugar (plus extra for dusting)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 chocolate-covered toffee bar (3.5–4 ounces, finely chopped)

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Instructions

1. Dissolve the espresso powder in boiling water in a small bowl.
2. In an electric mixer, cream together room temperature butter and confectioners’ sugar until fluffy.
3. Mix in the vanilla extract and espresso mixture until well combined.
4. Gradually add flour while mixing on low speed until just incorporated.
5. Gently fold in the chocolate toffee bits using a spatula.
6. Transfer dough to a gallon-size zipper-lock bag, roll into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick, and chill for at least 2 hours.
7. Preheat oven to 325°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
8. Cut chilled dough into desired shapes and poke holes with a fork.
9. Bake for 18-20 minutes until lightly golden around the edges.
10. Dust with confectioners’ sugar while still hot and cool completely on a wire rack before storing.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie (25g)
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 50mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: For a bolder flavor, use high-quality instant espresso. Customize by adding nuts or spices according to preference. To make gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free blend.