Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the aroma of freshly brewed coffee fills my kitchen, I’m reminded of the joy that simple ingredients can bring. These Chewy Coffee Cookies are the ultimate antidote to anyone craving a quick caffeine fix paired with a delightful treat. With just a handful of pantry staples, they come together effortlessly in under 30 minutes, making them an ideal option for busy days when time is tight but the desire for something homemade is strong. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of crispy edges and a soft, chewy center, creating a delightful texture that coffee lovers will adore. Plus, these cookies are incredibly customizable—whether you prefer a hint of mocha or a touch of tiramisu, the variations are endless! Ready to whip up a batch that your friends and family will remember? Why Are These Coffee Cookies a Must-Try? Simplicity at its finest: You can whip these cookies up in under 30 minutes with just a few pantry staples. Irresistible flavor: The deep coffee notes provide a satisfying kick that pairs perfectly with your favorite brewed beverage. Customizable options: From mocha to tiramisu, you can easily tailor these cookies to match your taste preferences, ensuring there’s a version for everyone! Crowd-pleaser: Bake a batch for gatherings, and watch as they vanish in no time—perfect for coffee lovers at any event! Texture bliss: Enjoy the delightful combination of crispy edges with a soft, chewy center, making each bite a truly enjoyable experience. Whether you’re a fan of Chocolate Chip Cookies or looking for some unique flavors, these cookies will surely become a staple in your baking repertoire! Coffee Cookie Ingredients For the Dough Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; can use salted butter, but adjust salt content accordingly. Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and encourages spreading; substitute with coconut sugar for a deeper flavor. Light Brown Sugar – Contributes moisture and a slight caramel flavor; dark brown sugar is acceptable for more molasses taste. Large Egg – Binds the ingredients together and aids in leavening; use applesauce or mashed banana for a vegan option. Espresso Powder – Delivers intense coffee flavor without excess moisture; freshly brewed espresso may be used but can lead to a sticky dough. Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor profile; use almond extract for a different aroma. All-Purpose Flour – The main structure ingredient; a gluten-free flour mix can be used for a gluten-free version. Baking Powder and Baking Soda – Leavening agents that help cookies rise; no direct substitutions. Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor; no direct substitutions. Enjoy crafting these delicious coffee cookies that are sure to impress! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chewy Coffee Cookies Step 1: Prep the Ingredients Begin by melting 1 cup of unsalted butter in a microwave-safe bowl until just melted, about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Once melted, let it cool slightly, then mix in ¾ cup granulated sugar and ¾ cup light brown sugar until fully blended. The mixture should be smooth and glossy, signaling it’s ready for the next step in making your delightful coffee cookies. Step 2: Dissolve Espresso Powder In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of espresso powder with a splash of hot water, stirring until it becomes a smooth paste. This will enhance the coffee flavor in your cookies. Then, pour this espresso mixture into the butter-sugar blend, stirring well to combine. You’ll notice the mixture deepening in color and aroma, which is the hallmark of these chewy coffee cookies. Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla Crack in 1 large egg and add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the mixture. Stir vigorously until everything is well incorporated—aim for a homogenous blend. The batter will become slightly thicker and more cohesive as you bring the ingredients together, ensuring a delightful chewy texture in your final coffee cookies. Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients In a separate bowl, sift together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until a soft dough forms, being careful not to overmix. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable, which is perfect for your chewy coffee cookies. Step 5: Chill the Dough Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for about 30 minutes. This step is essential as it firms up the butter, making it easier to scoop the cookies. As you wait, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) to prepare for baking, ensuring a perfect environment for your cookies to rise beautifully. Step 6: Shape the Cookies Once chilled, scoop out walnut-sized portions of the dough and place them onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Roll each piece into a ball, ensuring they are evenly shaped. The cookies will spread as they bake, so ample spacing is key for the best results in your coffee cookie creation. Step 7: Bake the Cookies Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 12 minutes, or until they are golden brown around the edges and just set in the center. Keep an eye on them; they’ll have a slightly soft appearance when done but will firm up as they cool. The pleasant aroma of the coffee cookies will fill your kitchen, drawing everyone closer! Step 8: Cool Down Allow the cookies to sit on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes to set before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This resting period helps prevent the underbaking of your chewy coffee cookies, ensuring that each bite retains that perfect texture. Enjoy the delightful pairing of these treats with your favorite coffee! Make Ahead Options These Chewy Coffee Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to maximize their meal prep! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply scoop the cookie dough into balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover the sheet with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just preheat the oven and bake the chilled dough directly from the fridge for slightly longer, about 14 minutes, ensuring they’re just as delicious and fresh. If you plan to store the dough for up to 3 days, freeze the rolled balls instead. To maintain quality, ensure they are airtight, and thaw them in the fridge overnight before baking. This way, you’ll have warm, homemade coffee cookies ready with minimal effort! What to Serve with Chewy Coffee Cookies Warm coffee cookies fresh from the oven create an inviting atmosphere perfect for gathering and sharing heartfelt moments with loved ones. Fresh Brewed Coffee: The robust flavor of freshly brewed coffee enhances the coffee notes in the cookies, creating the perfect pairing for a cozy afternoon. Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the chewy texture, making for a delightful dessert combo. Chocolate Milkshake: The rich flavors of a chocolate milkshake complement the cookies well, adding a nostalgic feel to your treat. Fruit Compote: A tart fruit compote, such as cherry or raspberry, adds a refreshing zing that balances the deep coffee flavor of the cookies. Nutty Granola: Serve these cookies with a bowl of nutty granola for an energizing breakfast or snack that adds crunch and texture. Cheese Platter: Pair with a light cheese platter featuring creamy brie or tangy goat cheese for a sophisticated contrast to your cookies. Sparkling Water: Refresh with sparkling water flavored with a twist of lemon or lime to cleanse the palate between bites. Dark Chocolate: Provide a side of dark chocolate squares for a luxurious experience—each bite melted with the rich coffee enhances indulgence. Tiramisu: Take it a step further and serve with slices of tiramisu for a cohesive coffee-themed dessert experience; layers of flavor harmonize beautifully! Let these delightful accompaniments elevate your coffee cookie experience and entice everyone to gather ‘round. Coffee Cookie Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative and make these coffee cookies uniquely yours with flavorful twists! Mocha Cookies: Add 1-2 tablespoons of cocoa powder into the espresso mixture for that delightful chocolate-coffee fusion. This rich combination will make you feel as if you’re indulging in a cozy café treat. Tiramisu Cookies: Top your baked cookies with a dollop of mascarpone cream. This adds a creamy texture and a dreamy tiramisu flavor that coffee lovers simply can’t resist. Each bite will transport you to an Italian pastry shop! Iced Coffee Cookies: Drizzle a vanilla glaze infused with espresso over your cooled cookies for a sweet finish. This extra layer makes the cookies visually appealing and even more delicious, perfect for special occasions. Nutty Flavor: Fold in your choice of chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, to add a satisfying crunch. Nuts not only elevate the texture but also add a rich, earthy flavor that complements the coffee perfectly. Spicy Cinnamon Swirl: Before chilling the dough, sprinkle in a teaspoon of cinnamon for a warm spice touch. This makes the cookies comforting, especially when paired with a hot cup of coffee on a chilly day. Salted Caramel Touch: Drizzle some salted caramel sauce on top of the cooled cookies for a decadent twist. The sweet-salty contrast will elevate the flavor profile, making every bite a blissful experience. Vegan Adaptation: Substitute the egg with flaxseed meal mixed with water to bind your dough, ensuring these cookies remain delicious and cruelty-free. It’s a simple switch that doesn’t compromise taste! Whether you’re enjoying these with a fresh batch of Lemon Sugar Cookies or indulging in a rich Fudgy Cookies and Cream Brownies, the possibilities are endless! Storage Tips for Coffee Cookies Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week. This keeps them fresh while maintaining their delightful chewy texture. Fridge: If you live in a warmer climate, consider storing your coffee cookies in the fridge to avoid any chance of spoilage. They can last up to 2 weeks, but may become slightly firmer in texture. Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze rolled cookie dough balls in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply thaw and follow the baking instructions for fresh cookies. Reheating: To revive cookies, microwave them for 8-10 seconds. This gives the cookies a warm, soft bite, reminiscent of when they were first baked! Expert Tips for Coffee Cookies • Measure Accurately: Use a kitchen scale for consistent results. Precise measurements help achieve the perfect chewy texture in your coffee cookies. • Chill the Dough: Always refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes. Chilling prevents excessive spreading during baking, ensuring your cookies maintain their shape. • Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the cookies; they should be golden on the edges but slightly soft in the center. This prevents underbaking and ensures a chewy texture. • Proper Spacing: Space the cookie dough balls at least 2 inches apart on the baking sheet. This allows them room to expand without merging together, resulting in beautifully shaped coffee cookies. • Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to get creative with add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts to enhance your coffee cookies’ flavor and texture. Customizations are part of the fun! Coffee Cookies Recipe FAQs How do I select the right espresso powder for these cookies? Absolutely! When choosing espresso powder, aim for a high-quality brand that is finely ground. Look for options that are dark roasted for a bold flavor. Make sure to check the packaging for freshness—exceeding a year can diminish its robust taste—and avoid any that have clumped or lost aroma. What’s the best way to store leftover coffee cookies? Very simple! Place your coffee cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, where they will stay fresh for up to 1 week. If you prefer them chilled, you may place them in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, although they will have a firmer texture. To maintain their delightful chewiness, always keep the container sealed tightly. Can I freeze the dough for later use? The more the merrier! Freezing cookie dough is an excellent way to have fresh cookies on hand whenever a craving strikes. Shape your dough into walnut-sized balls and arrange them on a baking sheet to freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the balls to an airtight container or freezer bag, where they can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw the desired amount at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping them in the oven! What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky? Don’t worry; it happens! If your dough is overly sticky, chill it for an additional 15-20 minutes in the refrigerator. You could also sprinkle a little extra flour onto your hands while shaping the cookies to prevent sticking. If you notice the dough is too oily or soft from melting butter, it may require slightly more flour to balance the consistency. The goal is a dough that holds shape but is still soft enough for that delectable chew! Are these cookies suitable for those with gluten intolerance? Absolutely! To make your coffee cookies gluten-free, swap the all-purpose flour with a good quality gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to choose one that contains xanthan gum, which helps mimic the texture of traditional flour. You can also try almond flour for a nutty twist, but remember, it may yield a denser cookie. Enjoy guilt-free baking! Can my pet enjoy any leftover coffee cookies? While it might be tempting to share with your furry friend, it is best to keep these cookies for human consumption. The high sugar and caffeine content can be harmful to pets. If you want to treat your pet, consider making a special batch of dog-safe cookies using pet-friendly ingredients like pumpkin and oat flour! Decadent Coffee Cookie Bliss for Every Caffeine Lover These Coffee Cookies offer a delightful caffeine fix combined with a chewy texture that coffee lovers will adore. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 12 minutes minsChilling Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 57 minutes mins Servings: 24 cookiesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Dough1 cup unsalted butter can use salted butter, adjust salt accordingly¾ cup granulated sugar substitute with coconut sugar for a deeper flavor¾ cup light brown sugar dark brown sugar is acceptable for more molasses taste1 large egg use applesauce or mashed banana for vegan option2 tablespoons espresso powder delivers intense coffee flavor1 teaspoon vanilla extract use almond extract for a different aroma2 cups all-purpose flour gluten-free flour mix can be used for gluten-free version1 teaspoon baking powder no direct substitutions½ teaspoon baking soda no direct substitutions½ teaspoon salt balances sweetness, no direct substitutions Equipment microwave-safe bowlBaking sheetParchment paperMixing bowlsWhisksifterAirtight container Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Chewy Coffee CookiesBegin by melting 1 cup of unsalted butter in a microwave-safe bowl until just melted, about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Let it cool slightly, then mix in ¾ cup granulated sugar and ¾ cup light brown sugar until fully blended.In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of espresso powder with a splash of hot water, stirring until it becomes a smooth paste. Pour this espresso mixture into the butter-sugar blend, stirring well to combine.Crack in 1 large egg and add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the mixture. Stir vigorously until everything is well incorporated.In a separate bowl, sift together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until a soft dough forms.Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for about 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) during this time.Once chilled, scoop out walnut-sized portions of the dough and place them onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 12 minutes, or until they are golden brown around the edges and just set in the center.Allow the cookies to sit on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes to set before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Nutrition Serving: 1cookieCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 2gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2.5gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 100mgPotassium: 50mgSugar: 10gVitamin A: 200IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 0.5mg NotesStore cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week at room temperature. Consider refrigeration for warmer climates. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!