13 Mar 2025
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.
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.
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.