Coffee shortbread

Name: Coffee shortbread
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 14 servings
Cuisine: Western, American
Ingredients: 1 cup butter (220g); 1 cup powdered sugar (160g); 2 tbsp espresso coffee (30g); 1 tbsp water (16g); 3 cups all-purpose white wheat flour (380g)

Coffee shortbread combines the rich flavors of espresso with a buttery, crumbly texture, making it an ideal treat for coffee enthusiasts. This simple method yields delicious cookies perfect for tea time or a coffee break.

05 Jan 2026
Cook time 20 min
Prep time 25 min

Ingredients:

1 cup butter
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tbsp espresso coffee
1 tbsp water
3 cups all-purpose white wheat flour

Coffee shortbread is a delightful twist on traditional shortbread, combining the rich and aromatic flavors of espresso with the buttery, crumbly texture of the classic treat. It's perfect for coffee lovers and makes an excellent addition to any tea time or coffee break.

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat and set aside.

2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until creamy and smooth. Gradually sift in the powdered sugar, continuing to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.

3. Add Espresso and Water: Gradually beat in the espresso coffee and the water until well incorporated. Make sure the espresso is at room temperature to avoid melting the butter.

4. Incorporate Flour: Slowly add the all-purpose flour to the butter mixture. Beat on low speed or mix with a spatula until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to over-mix; you want a tender shortbread.

5. Form the Dough: Divide the dough into two equal parts. Shape each part into a log about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap each log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm enough to slice.

6. Slice and Bake: Once the dough is firm, remove it from the refrigerator and unwrap. Using a sharp knife, slice each log into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Place the rounds onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.

7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on the cookies, as baking times may vary depending on your oven.

8. Cool: Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

9. Serve: Enjoy your coffee shortbread cookies with a hot cup of coffee or tea. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Coffee shortbread is not only a treat for coffee enthusiasts but also a delightful way to savor the rich flavors of espresso in a buttery, crumbly cookie. Follow these tips to perfect your batch and enjoy this simple yet indulgent dessert any time you crave something special.

Coffee shortbread FAQ:

What is the ideal baking time for coffee shortbread cookies?

Bake the coffee shortbread cookies in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) for 15-18 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as baking times can vary depending on your oven.

How do I know when the coffee shortbread cookies are done?

The cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden. They will continue to firm up slightly as they cool.

Can I use a different type of coffee instead of espresso?

Yes, you can substitute espresso with any strong brewed coffee. However, using espresso will provide a richer flavor.

What should I do if my dough is too soft to slice?

If the dough feels too soft, refrigerate it for an additional 30 minutes until it firms up. This will make it easier to slice.

How should I store leftover coffee shortbread cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to maintain freshness.

Tips:

- Ensure the butter is at room temperature before starting to make it easier to cream with sugar.

- Use high-quality espresso coffee for the best flavor.

- Do not over-mix the dough; mix just until the ingredients are combined to keep the shortbread tender.

- Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking to help the cookies maintain their shape.

- For an extra touch, you can sprinkle a pinch of sea salt or a dusting of powdered sugar on top before baking.

Nutrition per serving

14 Servings
Calories 260kcal
Protein 3.35g
Carbohydrates 30g
Fiber 0.80g
Sugar 11g
Fat 13g

Coffee shortbread