Espresso Shortbread Cookies

Published: February 3, 2026

by Saphira

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple Ingredients: This recipe uses basic pantry staples, making it easy to whip up a batch anytime.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of espresso and chocolate creates a mouthwatering treat that coffee lovers will adore.
Versatile: These cookies are perfect for various occasions, including parties, gifting, or simply enjoying at home.
Long Shelf Life: Store them in an airtight container for up to 3 weeks without losing their deliciousness.
Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can create professional-quality cookies.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on your Espresso Shortbread Cookies, gather all the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Electric mixer
Mixing bowls
Gallon-size zipper-lock plastic bag
Rolling pin
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

Electric mixer: Saves time and ensures thorough mixing of ingredients for a smooth dough.
Gallon-size zipper-lock plastic bag: Allows easy rolling and chilling of dough without mess.
Baking sheet: Provides a stable surface for baking cookies evenly.

Ingredients

To make these delicious Espresso Shortbread Cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

For the 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

For the Chocolate Flavor

1 chocolate covered toffee bar, 3.5-4 ounces, finely chopped

How to Make Espresso Shortbread Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Espresso Mixture

In a very small bowl, dissolve the espresso powder in the boiling water. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

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

Step 3: Add Flavorings

Add the vanilla extract and espresso mixture from Step 1 into the creamed butter mixture. Beat until fully combined.

Step 4: Incorporate Flour

Gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing at low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Fold in Toffee Bits

Gently fold in the chopped chocolate covered toffee bar. If you prefer, you can substitute this with chocolate chips or additional toffee bits.

Step 6: Shape the Dough

Transfer the cookie dough into a gallon-size zipper-lock plastic bag without sealing it.
Roll out into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick (approximately 9” x 11”).

Step 7: Chill

Zip the bag closed while removing as much air as possible and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 2 days.

Step 8: Preheat Oven

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

Step 9: Cut Out Cookies

Open the zip lock bag and place the dough rectangle on a cutting board.
Use a sharp knife or cookie cutter to cut out desired shapes and transfer them onto your prepared cookie sheet.

Step 10: Bake

Use a fork to poke holes in each cookie.
Bake for 18-20 minutes until lightly golden around the edges.

Step 11: Cool & Dust

Dust still-warm cookies with additional confectioners’ sugar.
Let cool completely on a wire rack before storing in an airtight container.

Enjoy your freshly baked Espresso Shortbread Cookies!

How to Serve Espresso Shortbread Cookies

Espresso shortbread cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Their rich flavor pairs perfectly with a variety of accompaniments, making them an ideal choice for gatherings or as an everyday snack.

Pair with Coffee

An excellent pairing with a hot cup of coffee enhances the espresso flavor of the cookies.

Serve with Whipped Cream

Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a creamy texture that complements the crispness of the cookies.

Enjoy with Fresh Berries

Fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the shortbread.

Create a Dessert Platter

Arrange cookies alongside other desserts like brownies and tarts for an impressive dessert spread at parties.

Add Ice Cream

Serve these cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla or coffee ice cream for a decadent dessert experience.

How to Perfect Espresso Shortbread Cookies

Getting the perfect texture and flavor in your espresso shortbread cookies is key to impressing your guests. Here are some helpful tips to consider while baking.

Chill the dough: Refrigerating the dough helps solidify the butter, leading to better texture and shape during baking.
Use quality ingredients: Opt for high-quality butter and fresh espresso powder for richer flavors.
Sift flour: Sifting flour before mixing can help achieve a lighter and more delicate cookie.
Avoid overmixing: Mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
Monitor baking time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake to prevent them from becoming too dark or crunchy.

Best Side Dishes for Espresso Shortbread Cookies

Espresso shortbread cookies can be enhanced by serving them alongside various side dishes. These pairings will elevate your dessert experience and delight your taste buds.

Chocolate Mousse – A rich and creamy chocolate mousse offers a luxurious contrast to the shortbread’s crunch.
Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad provides freshness and acidity, balancing out the sweetness of the cookies.
Cheese Platter – Include a selection of cheeses; creamy brie or sharp cheddar can complement the flavors beautifully.
Nut Mix – A mix of salted nuts adds crunch and saltiness, making it an excellent contrast to the sweet cookies.
Yogurt Parfait – Layered yogurt with granola and fruits can create a delightful breakfast option when served with these cookies.
Coffee Granita – The icy coffee granita offers a refreshing way to enjoy coffee flavors alongside your baked treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking delicious Espresso Shortbread Cookies can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes is key to success.

Skipping the chilling step: Not refrigerating the dough can lead to cookies that spread too much during baking. Always chill your dough for at least 2 hours.
Using cold butter: Cold butter does not incorporate well with sugar, resulting in a dense cookie. Ensure your butter is at room temperature before mixing.
Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can make cookies tough instead of tender. Mix until just combined for the best texture.
Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can result in dry cookies. Use the spoon-and-level method to ensure proper measurement.
Ignoring baking time: Baking time may vary based on your oven. Keep an eye on your cookies towards the end of baking to avoid over-baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 weeks.
Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Espresso Shortbread Cookies

Wrap cookies tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Espresso Shortbread Cookies

Oven: Preheat to 300°F (150°C) and warm cookies for about 5-10 minutes.
Microwave: Heat individual cookies on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds.
Stovetop: Place cookies in a covered skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, checking regularly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Espresso Shortbread Cookies.

Can I use decaf espresso powder for Espresso Shortbread Cookies?

Yes, you can substitute decaf espresso powder if you prefer a caffeine-free version while still enjoying the rich coffee flavor.

How do I make my Espresso Shortbread Cookies more chocolatey?

You can add more chocolate-covered toffee bits or substitute with chocolate chips for a richer taste.

What variations can I try with these Espresso Shortbread Cookies?

Consider adding nuts like walnuts or hazelnuts, or incorporating different flavored extracts like almond or hazelnut alongside vanilla.

How long do Espresso Shortbread Cookies last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, they will last up to 3 weeks at room temperature and up to 3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

These Espresso Shortbread Cookies are not only melt-in-your-mouth delicious but also incredibly versatile. Feel free to customize them with your favorite mix-ins or flavors. We encourage you to give this recipe a try!

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