Indulge in the comfort of Coffee Shortbread Cookies
Hello there, fellow baking enthusiasts! I’m excited to share with you my recipe for one of my all-time favorite treats- coffee shortbread cookies. With a rich and buttery base, infused with instant coffee granules, this cookie is perfect for any fan of coffee. It’s indulgent, it’s delicate, and it’s incredibly addictive.
If you’re looking for something new to experiment with in the kitchen, this is a great opportunity to savor a unique twist on the traditional shortbread recipe. In fact, even if you’re not a fan of coffee or shortbread cookies, I urge you to give this recipe a chance- it just may surprise you!
And the best part? It only requires a few basic ingredients that are likely already found in your pantry. So why not bring out your inner baker and follow along to create scrumptious, aromatic coffee shortbread cookies? This is a recipe that will have everyone asking for more- trust me.
So let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you a coffee lover? Are you a fan of shortbread cookies? If you answered “yes” to both of those questions, then this coffee shortbread cookies recipe is perfect for you!
Imagine biting into a buttery cookie, infused with the rich flavor of coffee. The instant coffee granules in this recipe add a delightful twist to the classic shortbread cookie. Not only is the coffee flavor present in every bite, but the texture is also superbly crumbly.
One thing that sets this recipe apart from others is its versatility. You can add different kinds of coffee to vary the taste according to your preferences. For instance, if you’re looking for a stronger coffee flavor, Turkish or espresso coffee will work great. On the other hand, if you like it mild and sweet, Trader Joe’s Kona Coffee will be perfect.
Also, if you’re more of a fan of chocolate or nuts, this recipe can accommodate that too. Dip or cover these cookies in white or dark chocolate to give them an added texture or sprinkle some ground nuts over them.
But most importantly, these coffee shortbread cookies are perfect for any occasion! Whether it’s an afternoon snack with friends, a dessert at dinner parties, or just something to munch on during work breaks – these cookies will always be there for any craving.
So next time you have a hankering for something delectable and caffeine-rich, whip up some coffee shortbread cookies and indulge yourself.
Ingredient List
Here are the ingredients you will need to make these delightful coffee shortbread cookies:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon instant coffee granules
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
For espresso shortbread:
- 2 tablespoons finely ground espresso or Turkish coffee
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
For coffee nut shortbread:
- 3/4 cup chopped coffee nut or Trader Joe’s Kona Coffee Coated Macadamia Nuts (or any other nuts you prefer)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup sugar
For white chocolate covered shortbread:
- 4 teaspoons instant coffee granules
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
For dark chocolate or turkish coffee dipped shortbread:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla
- A pinch of salt
- Icing sugar for dusting or decoration (optional)
- For Turkish coffee flavor:
- 2 tbsp coffee grounds
- g unsalted butter
- tsp instant coffee granules.
The Recipe How-To
Now, let’s dive into the fun part – making these tasty coffee shortbread cookies. Follow these steps to make them perfectly every time!
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
To start, preheat your oven to 350°F. Line your baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Make the Dough
Begin by creaming 1 cup of softened unsalted butter, 1/4 cup of sugar, 1/4 cup of brown sugar together until light and fluffy. Then add in 2 teaspoons of instant coffee granules and 1/4 teaspoon of salt, mixing until they’re well combined.
Next, mix in 2 cups of all-purpose flour bit by bit into the butter mixture. Mix slowly at first, then increase speed to medium until everything is incorporated.
Step 3: Chill the Dough
Once you have a dough ball, wrap it up in plastic and chill it for at least 30 minutes. This will help the cookies hold their shape while baking.
Step 4: Roll Out and Cut
After chilling, remove the cookie dough from your fridge and roll it out on a lightly floured surface. Use a cookie cutter to cut out desired shapes.
Place each cookie onto a prepared baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden on top. Once done, remove from oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack.
Step 6: Optional Chocolate Dipped
If you want to take these coffee shortbread cookies to the next level, consider dipping them in some melted chocolate! You can use white chocolate chips or dark chocolate depending on your preference.
Enjoy!
Now that you’ve created these delicious coffee shortbread cookies, pour yourself a hot Turkish coffee to complement them!
Substitutions and Variations
Alright y’all, let’s talk about some fun substitutions and variations you can make with this coffee shortbread cookie recipe!
First up, let’s talk about the coffee flavor. If you want a stronger coffee flavor, use espresso instead of instant coffee granules. If you’re feeling fancy, try using Turkish coffee for a unique and bold flavor.
Now let’s talk chocolate. White chocolate chips are my personal favorite for this recipe, but you can also try dark chocolate or even make them chocolate covered or chocolate dipped.
If you want to switch things up even more, try adding some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the dough. You can also make a coffee nut shortbread by replacing some of the flour with finely ground coffee grounds.
For a simple yet tasty variation, try icing sugar on top for a powdered sugar effect.
If you’re looking for a three-ingredient shortbread recipe, try skipping the instant coffee granules and adding 2 tbsp of Trader Joe’s Kona coffee instead!
The possibilities for variations are endless, so don’t be afraid to get creative and have fun making these delicious coffee shortbread cookies your own.
Serving and Pairing
Coffee shortbread cookies are the perfect sweet treat to enjoy along with your favorite cup of coffee. I recommend serving these cookies alongside a hot cup of Turkish coffee or espresso to enhance the coffee flavor in the cookies.
For an extra indulgent twist, try dipping the cookies into melted white or dark chocolate and letting them cool before serving. The rich chocolate and coffee flavors complement each other perfectly and will leave your taste buds craving for more.
If you want to keep it simple, these cookies are delicious on their own as well. You can also pair them with a glass of cold milk for a classic combination that never goes out of style.
No matter how you decide to enjoy them, these coffee shortbread cookies are sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering or simply as an afternoon snack.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
So, you’ve made a batch of these delectable coffee shortbread cookies but can’t eat them all in one go? Don’t worry; you can store them for later. These cookies can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
To ensure that they stay fresh for longer, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. If you want to store the dough ahead of time, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to 1 month. When ready to bake, leave the dough out at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften before cutting and baking.
To reheat your cookies, simply pop them into a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through or remove from the refrigerator and let them come back to room temperature before enjoying. Microwaving is not recommended as this may affect the texture of the cookies.
Finally, if you want to take these cookies on the go, consider wrapping each cookie individually with wax paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking together while also protecting them while transporting.
With these helpful tips, storing and reheating your coffee shortbread cookies will be a breeze. Enjoy these sweet treats anytime without having to worry about the hassle of making them fresh every time!
Tips for Perfect Results
To achieve perfect results when making coffee shortbread cookies, there are a few tips you should keep in mind.
First, it’s essential to use unsalted butter for the recipe. Salted butter can make the cookies too salty and affect the taste of the coffee. Make sure to leave the butter out at room temperature for about an hour before baking to ensure it is soft enough to cream with the sugar.
Second, when measuring dry ingredients such as flour and instant coffee granules, use a spoon to scoop them into your measuring cup and level off with a knife. This ensures that you don’t accidentally pack too much into the measuring cup, which can affect the texture of the cookies.
Third, for added texture and flavor, consider adding finely ground coffee grounds to the dough. This will give the cookies a subtle coffee flavor and a slightly crunchy texture.
Fourth, if you’re looking to dip your finished cookies in chocolate, make sure to use high-quality chocolate that complements the coffee flavor. White or dark chocolate would be a good choice for this recipe.
Fifth, if you’re short on time but still want to enjoy delicious coffee shortbread cookies, consider making a three-ingredient version using just butter, powdered sugar, and flour. These cookies are quick and easy to make but still packed with delicious coffee flavor.
By following these tips and tricks, you can ensure that your coffee shortbread cookies turn out perfectly every time.
FAQ
Now that you have the coffee shortbread recipe, it’s understandable to have some questions. In this section, I’m going to answer some frequently asked questions that might arise while making the cookies. From ingredient substitutions to serving suggestions, I’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive into the FAQ section and troubleshoot any of your doubts.
What is the secret to good shortbread?
As a barista, I highly recommend using only the finest quality butter when brewing coffee. Make sure to choose a brand that prides itself on producing superior butter, as it can significantly impact the taste and aroma of your coffee. Simplicity is key when it comes to ingredients, so avoid throwing in too many extras that can muddle the flavor profile. Instead, add subtle hints of flavor to enhance the natural taste of the coffee.
When it comes to brewing coffee, it is essential not to overwork the ingredients. For example, if you’re preparing a latte, ensure that you don’t overheat the milk or stir it too vigorously. This can cause the milk to separate and detract from the taste and texture of your latte.
Additionally, shaping the dough is an often overlooked step that can make or break your coffee experience. When creating baked goods to accompany your coffee, ensure that you shape the dough carefully to achieve the right texture and size. It’s also crucial to chill the dough before baking, which helps it to firm up and retain its shape while cooking.
Lastly, don’t forget to add those essential finishing touches to your coffee. Whether it’s a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dollop of whipped cream, the details make all the difference. Take the time to perfect your brewing technique, and you’ll be well on your way to creating the ultimate coffee experience.
What are common mistakes when making shortbread?
As a barista, it’s important to remember that just like a perfectly baked dish, a delicious cup of coffee is all about the details. Much like how a cake can develop a soggy bottom if not baked correctly, coffee can be ruined if not brewed properly. The temperature, grind size, and brewing time are all crucial elements that must be taken into consideration to ensure a great cup of coffee.
What is the difference between shortbread cookies and regular cookies?
When it comes to cookies, sugar cookies and shortbread are both delightful treats, but they have distinct characteristics. Sugar cookies are notably fluffier, while shortbread is renowned for its denseness. The texture of shortbread can be described as more rugged and unrefined, whereas sugar cookies are often used as a base for decorating and cutting. Additionally, sugar cookies require a leavening agent, such as baking powder or soda, which is not necessary for the minimalist ingredient list of shortbread.
When making shortbread What must you not do?
When the butter is too hard, it becomes difficult to mix it into the shortbread mixture, leading to overworked dough. This eventually results in hard shortbread, which is something that should be avoided at all costs.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, these coffee shortbread cookies are like a little piece of heaven in your mouth. With their delicate texture and the rich flavor of coffee, they’re sure to become a new favorite. Whether you choose to enjoy them plain or dipped in white or dark chocolate, they’re perfect for any occasion.
Moreover, with the variations and substitutions provided, you can create your own unique twist on this classic shortbread recipe. Why not try making espresso shortbread or Turkish coffee shortbread? Or add some finely ground coffee beans for an extra kick of caffeine? The possibilities are endless.
So what are you waiting for? Get baking with these easy-to-follow instructions and impress your friends and family with your newfound baking skills. Just make sure you have enough time to store and reheat them to maintain their freshness.
At the end of the day, I highly recommend that you add this coffee shortbread cookie recipe to your collection. Not only will it give you a sense of joy and satisfaction when you bite into them, but they’ll also leave everyone asking for more. It’s time to indulge in some sweet treats that satisfy both your sweet tooth and love for coffee.
Coffee Shortbread Cookies Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, softened (no substitutes)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons instant coffee granules
- 2 cups flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted
- 1/2 cup vanilla chocolate chips or 1/2 cup white chocolate chips, melted
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 300°F.
- Cream butter, sugars and coffee granules together; gradually beat in flour and salt.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out dough to 1/4 inch thickness.
- Cut with floured 2-3 inch cookie cutters; place cookies 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets.
- Bake for 20-22 minutes or until set.
- Remove to wire racks to cool.
- Drizzle with melted chips.