Description
These Espresso Shortbread Cookies combine a classic buttery texture with a rich espresso flavor, perfect for coffee lovers. With a delicate crispness and subtle sweetness, these cookies make an elegant treat for afternoon tea or dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon finely ground espresso beans
Sweeteners
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for baking the cookies.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and finely ground espresso beans until evenly mixed. Set this mixture aside for later use.
- Cream Sugars and Butter: Using an electric mixer, cream together the granulated sugar, powdered sugar, and softened butter in a large bowl. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, indicating proper aeration.
- Add Vanilla and Dry Ingredients: Mix in the vanilla extract thoroughly. Then gradually add the dry flour mixture, mixing just until the dough comes together, avoiding overmixing.
- Chill Dough: Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up the dough for easier handling.
- Roll and Cut Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to approximately 1/4-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut the dough into your desired shapes.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the cut cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart to allow for slight spreading during baking.
- Bake Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges just begin to turn a light golden color.
- Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring they set properly.
Notes
- For a stronger espresso flavor, increase the amount of finely ground espresso beans slightly, but avoid overdoing it to prevent bitterness.
- Make sure the butter is softened but not melted to achieve the best texture in the dough.
- Chilling the dough is essential to prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to one week.
- These cookies pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or espresso for an indulgent treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
