These Espresso Chocolate Chip Cookies are an indulgent twist on the classic chocolate chip cookie! Perfect for coffee lovers, these cookies combine the rich flavors of browned butter and espresso grounds with delicious chocolate chunks. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these cookies will elevate any occasion with their delightful aroma and taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Flavor: The combination of espresso and browned butter creates a deep, satisfying flavor that complements the sweetness of the chocolate.
- Perfect Texture: With a chewy center and crispy edges, these cookies offer a delightful bite that keeps you coming back for more.
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
- Versatile Treat: These cookies are great for coffee breaks, dessert tables, or as gifts for friends and family.
- Batch-Friendly: With 23 servings per batch, they’re perfect for sharing or enjoying throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into baking these scrumptious cookies, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready makes the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking tray
- Parchment paper
- Wire cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl ensures you have enough space to combine all ingredients without mess.
- Baking tray: A sturdy baking tray helps distribute heat evenly while baking, resulting in perfectly cooked cookies.
- Wire cooling rack: This allows air to circulate around the cookies as they cool, preventing sogginess.
Ingredients
These espresso chocolate chip cookies feature a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will please any palate. Here’s what you need:
For the Base
- 14 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon ground espresso
- 1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- 1 large egg yolk (room temperature)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the Dry Ingredients
- 1 2/3 cup + 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (see notes for measuring in notes below)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Chocolate
- 3/4 cup chopped semi-sweet chocolate or mini chocolate chips
How to Make Espresso Chocolate Chip Cookies
Step 1: Brown the Butter
In a stainless steel pan, cook the butter over medium heat until the butter solids at the bottom turn an amber brown color. This should take about 10 minutes. Scrape all of the browned butter into your mixing bowl.
Step 2: Mix in Espresso Grounds
Stir in the ground espresso thoroughly, then set the bowl aside to cool to room temperature. This typically takes about 20-30 minutes.
Step 3: Combine Sugars
Whisk together both sugars – granulated and brown – into the cooled butter for one minute until well combined.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add in one whole egg, along with one egg yolk and two teaspoons of vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
Step 5: Fold in Dry Ingredients
Gently fold in all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and chocolate until just combined. Do not overmix!
Step 6: Chill Dough
Scoop dough onto a parchment-lined baking tray. Chill in the freezer for at least 3-4 hours (or overnight for optimal flavor).
Step 7: Preheat Oven
When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Bake frozen cookies spaced at least two inches apart for 10-12 minutes or until edges are golden but centers are still pale.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Allow cookies to cool on a wire cooling rack before enjoying these delicious treats!
How to Serve Espresso Chocolate Chip Cookies
These espresso chocolate chip cookies are perfect for any occasion. Their rich flavor and delightful texture make them a great choice for serving at gatherings, with coffee, or as a sweet treat after meals.
With Coffee
- Pair these cookies with a hot cup of coffee for a delicious breakfast or afternoon snack. The espresso enhances the coffee flavor, making it a perfect combination.
Ice Cream Sandwiches
- Create delightful ice cream sandwiches by placing your favorite ice cream between two cookies. This adds a creamy texture that complements the chewy cookie.
Dessert Platter
- Arrange these cookies on a dessert platter alongside other treats like brownies or fruit tarts. This makes for an impressive presentation at parties.
Gift Packaging
- Package these cookies in decorative boxes or bags for a thoughtful homemade gift. They are perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just to show appreciation.
As Party Favors
- Serve them as party favors at weddings or celebrations. Guests will love taking home a tasty treat to enjoy later.
How to Perfect Espresso Chocolate Chip Cookies
Making the best espresso chocolate chip cookies requires attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Here’s how you can elevate your cookie game.
Use Fresh Espresso: Ensure your espresso grounds are fresh for the best flavor. Stale coffee can dull the taste of your cookies.
Brown Your Butter: Browning the butter adds depth and nuttiness to the flavor. Don’t rush this step; it’s key to achieving that rich taste.
Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill enhances the flavors and affects the texture positively, resulting in chewier cookies.
Measure Flour Accurately: Use a kitchen scale or the spoon-and-level method to measure flour accurately. Too much flour can lead to dry cookies.
Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on baking time; remove them when they are golden at the edges but still soft in the middle for that perfect chewy texture.
Best Side Dishes for Espresso Chocolate Chip Cookies
Espresso chocolate chip cookies can be enjoyed with various side dishes that complement their rich flavors. Here are some great pairings:
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that balances the intensity of espresso with creamy sweetness.
- Fresh Berries: Add a refreshing touch with strawberries or raspberries that bring tartness and brightness.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad will provide a nice contrast to the richness of the cookies.
- Milk: The classic combo! A glass of cold milk pairs perfectly, enhancing the cookie experience.
- Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese for an unexpected yet delightful combination.
- Nutella Dip: Serve Nutella on the side for dipping; its chocolaty hazelnut flavor pairs wonderfully with espresso notes.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds airy texture and sweetness without overpowering.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over each cookie for an indulgent treat that takes them to the next level.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making espresso chocolate chip cookies can be a delightful experience, but there are a few common mistakes to keep in mind.
- Using cold ingredients: Always ensure your eggs are at room temperature. This helps the dough blend smoothly and creates a better texture.
- Not chilling the dough: Skipping the chilling step can lead to overly flat cookies. Chill for at least 3-4 hours to allow flavors to develop and improve the structure.
- Overmixing the dough: When adding flour and chocolate, mix just until combined. Overmixing can make the cookies tough instead of chewy.
- Ignoring baking times: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; they should be golden on the edges but still soft in the center. Remove them from the oven promptly.
- Not measuring flour properly: Use the spoon-and-level method for measuring flour to avoid too much flour in your dough, which can lead to dry cookies.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to one week.
- Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.
Freezing Espresso Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls for up to three months.
- For baked cookies, store in a freezer-safe container; they’ll last up to three months.
Reheating Espresso Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place a skillet over low heat and warm cookies on each side for 1-2 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making espresso chocolate chip cookies!
How do I make my Espresso Chocolate Chip Cookies chewier?
To achieve chewier cookies, add an extra egg yolk or use more brown sugar than granulated sugar.
Can I use decaffeinated espresso grounds?
Yes! You can substitute decaffeinated espresso grounds if you prefer a caffeine-free option while still enjoying that coffee flavor.
What can I substitute for all-purpose flour?
For gluten-free options, consider using a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it has xanthan gum included for proper texture.
How do I enhance the coffee flavor?
Try increasing the amount of ground espresso slightly or adding espresso powder for a bolder taste in your espresso chocolate chip cookies.
Final Thoughts
These espresso chocolate chip cookies offer a delightful twist on a classic treat. The combination of rich espresso and decadent chocolate makes them perfect for coffee lovers. Feel free to customize your batch with nuts or different types of chocolate chips for a unique twist. Enjoy baking these delicious cookies!
Espresso Chocolate Chip Cookies
Indulge in the delightful world of Espresso Chocolate Chip Cookies, where rich coffee flavor meets gooey chocolate in every bite. Perfect for coffee enthusiasts, these cookies are a scrumptious twist on the classic chocolate chip variety. The combination of browned butter and ground espresso produces a mouthwatering aroma that fills your kitchen and invites everyone to indulge. With a chewy center and crispy edges, these treats are ideal for gatherings, casual coffee breaks, or simply as a sweet self-reward. Easy to prepare and batch-friendly, you’ll find yourself reaching for more!
- Total Time: 42 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 23 cookies 1x
Ingredients
- 14 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon ground espresso
- 1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- 1 large egg yolk (room temperature)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 2/3 cup + 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup chopped semi-sweet chocolate or mini chocolate chips
Instructions
- Brown the butter in a stainless steel pan over medium heat until amber-colored; transfer to a mixing bowl.
- Stir in ground espresso and cool the mixture to room temperature.
- Whisk in both sugars until well combined, then add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
- Fold in flour, baking soda, salt, and chocolate until just combined—avoid overmixing.
- Chill dough on a parchment-lined baking tray for at least 3-4 hours.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C) and bake chilled dough for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (35g)
- Calories: 155
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: For enhanced chewiness, consider adding an extra egg yolk. Experiment with decaffeinated espresso for a caffeine-free alternative.