Are you craving a cookie that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also immerses you in delightful coffee flavor? Look no further than these Coffee Sugar Cookies. Soft and chewy on the inside with a subtly crisp edge, these cookies are the perfect treat for any time of day. They offer a unique twist on the classic sugar cookie by incorporating bold coffee notes, making them an ideal choice for breakfast, a quick dessert, or a cozy snack. Packed with the warmth of espresso and drizzled with a rich glaze, these cookies are destined to become your new favorite.
Whether you’re planning a gathering with friends or just looking for a little pick-me-up at home, these cookies are simple to whip up. The luxurious burst of coffee flavor combined with the comforting sweetness of sugar cookies creates a harmony that is both satisfying and easy to make. Plus, the glaze adds a touch of elegance, making them perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into the details of how to create this delicious treat that will surely impress your family and friends!
Why You’ll Love This Coffee Sugar Cookies
Here are a few reasons why these cookies will capture your heart:
- A Perfect Blend of Flavors: Each bite delivers a balanced mix of sweet sugar and rich coffee.
- Simple Preparation: With straightforward instructions, these cookies are easy enough for bakers of all skill levels.
- Ideal for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a get-together or a solo indulgence, they fit every scenario.
- Customizable Glaze: Adjust the sweetness and coffee intensity in the glaze to suit your preference.
- Great Texture: Enjoy the delightful contrast between soft centers and crisp edges.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the mixing bowl, it’s essential to set up your kitchen workspace effectively. Start by gathering all the ingredients and tools to streamline the baking process. You’ll need a medium bowl for mixing the dry ingredients, a large bowl for the wet ingredients, and an electric mixer for that perfect creamy texture when whipping the butter and sugars.
Don’t forget to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before you begin — this step allows your cookies to bake evenly. You will also need parchment paper to line your baking sheets, which helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Lastly, have a wire rack ready for cooling once the cookies have baked to perfection.
Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder or finely ground coffee
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 1 to 2 tablespoons milk or cream (for glaze)
- ½ teaspoon instant espresso powder (optional for glaze)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Dry Ingredients
Start by combining the dry ingredients to set the foundation for your cookies. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and espresso powder. This step is crucial as it ensures that all the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the flour blend, allowing the cookies to rise beautifully and achieve that perfect texture.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a separate large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together the room-temperature butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, usually about 2-3 minutes. This creaming process incorporates air into the mixture, resulting in a tender cookie. The combination of granulated and brown sugars provides both sweetness and richness, enhancing the overall flavor of your cookies.
Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla
Once the butter and sugars are well combined, add the egg and vanilla extract. Beat the mixture until everything is fully incorporated. This adds moisture and a fragrant aroma to your cookie dough, further deepening the flavor profile.
Step 4: Mix the Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients while stirring to combine. It’s vital not to overmix at this stage; stop when the flour is just incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense cookies instead of the chewy, soft texture we desire.
Step 5: Chill the Dough
Cover the cookie dough with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps prevent spreading during baking and enhances the coffee flavor as it allows the ingredients to meld together.
Step 6: Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet
While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheet with parchment paper. This preparation ensures your cookies come out evenly baked and ready to enjoy.
Step 7: Shape the Cookies
Once chilled, scoop out dough and roll it into 2-tablespoon-sized balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet with about 2 inches of space between each ball. This spacing allows room for spreading as they bake.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Bake your cookies for 10-12 minutes. You want the edges to be set while the centers still look slightly underbaked. This look will ensure a softer cookie once cooled!
Step 9: Cool and Prepare the Glaze
After baking, let the cookies cool on the tray for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Meanwhile, prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, optional espresso powder, and milk until smooth. The glaze should be thick yet pourable so that it can smoothly drizzle over your cookies.
Step 10: Glaze and Set
Once the cookies have cooled, drizzle the espresso glaze over them. Allow the glaze to set for 15-20 minutes before serving to achieve that delightful glossy finish.
Variations
- Protein: Add chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans for an added crunch and protein boost.
- Vegetables: Incorporate finely grated zucchini for moisture and to add nutritional value.
- Spices: Experiment with spices like cinnamon or a hint of nutmeg for a warm twist to the flavor profile.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure the butter is at room temperature to achieve proper creaming with sugars.
- Chilling the dough is essential for flavor development and to help maintain their shape during baking.
- Use fresh coffee grounds for the best flavor impact in your cookies.
- Don’t skip the glaze — it adds an irresistible finish!
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these cookies with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack.
- Serve on a dessert platter at parties, showcasing various cookie flavors alongside them.
Tips
- Use quality espresso powder for the most intense flavor; it can make a noticeable difference.
- If you prefer a stronger coffee taste, consider increasing the espresso powder in the dough.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh for a longer period.
- For a unique twist, try adding a splash of your favorite liqueur to the glaze for an adult treat.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 150 per cookie
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 100mg
FAQs
Can I use decaf coffee for the cookies?
Absolutely! Decaf coffee or espresso powder will work perfectly for those who want to enjoy the flavor without the caffeine kick.
How long do these cookies last?
When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies can last about 5-7 days, retaining their delightful texture and flavor.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, these cookies can be frozen before or after baking. For unbaked dough, scoop and freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-lock bag. Baked cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months!
What can I substitute for instant espresso powder?
You can use finely ground coffee in a pinch, but ensure it’s not too coarse, or it might affect the texture of your dough.
Conclusion
These Coffee Sugar Cookies not only satisfy your sweet cravings but bring a delightful touch of sophisticated flavor to an everyday treat. Ideal for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, these cookies are versatile and sure to please any crowd. Try them today, and you won’t be able to resist their charming texture and tasty glaze! Don’t forget to share your experience, any tweaks you made, or your favorite ways to enjoy them in the comments below!
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Coffee Sugar Cookies
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
These Coffee Sugar Cookies deliver a delightful twist on a classic with rich coffee flavor and a sweet glaze.
Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder or finely ground coffee
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 1 to 2 tablespoons milk or cream (for glaze)
- ½ teaspoon instant espresso powder (optional for glaze)
Instructions
- Start by combining the dry ingredients in a medium bowl: whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and espresso powder.
- In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the room-temperature butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, beating until fully incorporated.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop out 2-tablespoon-sized balls of dough and place them on the baking sheet with 2 inches of space in between.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are set but the centers look slightly underbaked.
- Cool the cookies on the tray for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, optional espresso powder, and milk until smooth and drizzle over the cooled cookies.
Notes
Chill the dough for best results and don’t skip the glaze!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 150 per cookie
- Sodium: 100 mg
- Protein: 2 g