In the world of baked delights, few treats are as simple, yet utterly satisfying, as shortbread cookies. Elevating this classic to new heights, we introduce Espresso Shortbread Cookies—a harmonious blend of rich, buttery goodness and the bold flavor of espresso. In this recipe blog, we’ll guide you through the steps of creating these delectable cookies, ensuring that your kitchen becomes a haven for coffee lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons finely ground espresso beans
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Espresso Infusion
Begin by grinding your favorite espresso beans finely. Measure out two tablespoons of the finely ground espresso and set it aside. You’ll be infusing the butter with this later to impart that rich coffee flavor.
Step 2: Infusing the Butter
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, add the finely ground espresso and let it steep for about 10 minutes. This allows the coffee flavor to infuse into the butter. Strain the butter to remove the coffee grounds, leaving you with a beautifully fragrant espresso-infused butter.
Step 3: Mixing the Dough
In a large bowl, cream together the espresso-infused butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and mix until well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing just until the dough comes together.
Step 4: Shaping the Cookies
Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a log. Wrap the logs in parchment paper or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the dough is firm.
Step 5: Preheating the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 6: Slicing and Baking
Once the dough is firm, take it out of the refrigerator and slice it into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Place the rounds on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each cookie. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
Step 7: Cooling and Enjoying
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. The shortbread cookies are ready to be enjoyed—crisp, buttery, and infused with the robust flavor of espresso.
Tips for Success:
- Experiment with different espresso bean varieties to find the flavor profile you love.
- For an extra touch, drizzle the cooled cookies with melted chocolate or sprinkle them with powdered sugar.
