Delectable Espresso Thumbprint Cookies – A Perfect Treat!
Coffee lovers, rejoice! If you’re anything like me, there’s nothing quite like a strong shot of espresso to get your day started. But have you ever thought about incorporating that same rich flavor and caffeine kick into a delicious dessert? Look no further than these Espresso Thumbprint Cookies.
This recipe combines the classic buttery texture of thumbprint cookies with a dose of instant espresso powder for a twist on the traditional treat. Not only do they have that perfect coffee taste, but they also feature a decadent chocolate filling that will leave any chocoholic begging for more.
But what really sets these cookies apart is their versatility. Whether it’s at a sophisticated dinner party or enjoyed alongside a cup of joe in the morning, these Espresso Thumbprint Cookies are sure to impress. Don’t be afraid to mix things up and try different variations – from double chocolate to caramel – using this same foolproof recipe.
So grab your apron and put on some Betty Crocker tunes, because it’s time to heat up the oven and indulge in some seriously delicious caffeine-infused cookies. You won’t regret it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you a coffee lover? Then, this espresso thumbprint cookies recipe is perfect for you! It is a classic cookie recipe with a unique twist of rich, bold caffeine espresso flavor in the form of an indulgent cookie.
The combination of the subtle sweetness of the cookie dough and the strong flavor of the espresso creates a perfect balance in every bite that will surely leave you wanting more. This recipe also has variations such as the double chocolate thumbprint and caramel thumbprint that will satiate your sweet tooth cravings in no time.
To add to its appeal, these cookies are also very easy to make. With straightforward instructions and only basic ingredients needed, you can easily whip up a batch of delicious cookies with minimal effort. The same can be said about storing them or reheating later on – simple and easy to do.
In addition, this recipe allows room for creativity when it comes to serving it with your choice of beverage or dessert. You can pair it with freshly brewed coffee or treat yourself to a milkshake topped with these crunchy delights.
Overall, the combination of the aromatic coffee and sweet cookie dough make these Espresso Thumbprint Cookies irresistible. With just one bite, you’ll fall in love with its rich flavors and unique taste – making it a go-to dessert for all occasions.
Ingredient List
Here’s what you’ll need to make these Espresso Thumbprint Cookies:
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon Instant espresso coffee powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 2 sticks unsalted butter, softened (1 cup)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
Espresso Filling
- 1 tablespoon instant espresso coffee powder
- 3 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
Chocolate Espresso Filling
- 3 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
- ¼ cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 tablespoon instant espresso coffee powder
Toppings
- White chocolate, melted (optional)
- Ground espresso beans or instant espresso powder (optional)
You can easily find all these ingredients at your local grocery store or online. Make sure to use high-quality ingredients so that your Espresso Thumbprint Cookies turn out decadent and full of flavor.
The Recipe How-To
Now let’s dive into how to make these Espresso Thumbprint Cookies!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
You need to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is an essential first step that will ensure that your cookies bake evenly.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, cream 1 cup of unsalted, softened butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture becomes smooth and fluffy.
Step 3: Add the Egg and Vanilla Extract
Once you get a smooth mixture after creaming butter and sugar, it’s time to add in 1 egg and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. At this point, mix everything together until it has been fully combined.
Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate large mixing bowl or stand mixer, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 2 teaspoons of instant espresso coffee powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
Note: If you want an extra punch of caffeine for an early morning boost, feel free to use hazelnut or dark chocolate espresso grounds instead.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Slowly add the dry ingredients mixture into the wet ingredients mixture from Step 3. Mix everything until it forms a dough.
Step 6: Shape Dough into Balls
Now take around 1-2 tablespoons worth of cookie dough, roll it up between your palms until it shapes into a ball. Place them onto a baking sheet prepared with parchment paper leaving enough space between them so they can expand while baking.
Step 7: Make Indentation in Cookie Balls
Using your thumb or the end of any thick utensil like a wooden spoon or spatula, make a thumbprint indentation in the center of each cookie. This will create a space to fill later.
Step 8: Bake Cookies
Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes at 350°F (175°C) until they are firm but still soft to touch. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let it cool down for at least 10 minutes.
Step 9: Fill with Espresso Caramel and Chocolate
Once the cookies have cooled down, melt 2 cups of dark chocolate or white chocolate using a double boiler or microwave. Then, mix in 1 teaspoon of instant espresso coffee powder to create an extra kick of caffeine.
Using a spoon, drop enough melted chocolate into each cookie indentation, filling it up to the top. Allow it to set for a minute or two, then add a drizzle of caramel sauce on top.
Step 10: Enjoy!
And that’s it – now you can enjoy your delicious Espresso Thumbprint Cookies. These cookies are perfect for breakfast with a strong cup of coffee or
Substitutions and Variations
As a barista and coffee lover, I’m always looking for ways to creatively incorporate different coffee flavors into my baking. With this recipe, there are endless opportunities for variation and customization.
Firstly, feel free to experiment with the type of espresso powder you use. In the ingredient list, we recommend using instant espresso coffee powder, but you can also try using ground espresso or finely ground espresso beans for a stronger coffee flavor.
For those who want to switch up the type of cookies used, why not try making chocolate espresso thumbprint cookies? To make this variation, simply substitute half of the all-purpose flour in the original recipe for unsweetened cocoa powder. The added cocoa will give the cookies a richer chocolate flavor that perfectly complements the intense caffeine kick of the espresso.
For a nutty twist on the recipe, try making hazelnut espresso thumbprint cookies by adding 1/4 cup of hazelnuts to the cookie dough mixture. The subtle nuttiness creates a unique flavor combination that’s sure to please your taste buds.
Another fun variation is to use caramel in place of chocolate in your thumbprint cookies. You can either roll your thumbprint cookie dough balls in granulated sugar before baking or fill them with caramel sauce after baking for an indulgent treat.
Lastly, if you’re looking for more ideas on how to incorporate coffee flavors into your baked goods, check out Betty Crocker or Baked Harvest for more delicious recipes featuring espresso and other coffee-based flavors.
Remember to have fun with your baking and don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and variations. Happy baking!
Serving and Pairing
Now that you’ve made these irresistible espresso thumbprint cookies, it’s time to try out the best ways to serve and pair them. Trust me, there’s nothing more comforting than enjoying these warm cookies with a cup of freshly brewed coffee!
The espresso flavor in these cookies makes them perfect for coffee-lovers. I would recommend serving them with an extra shot of espresso, or a latte, to complement the strong caffeine notes in the cookies.
If you have a sweet tooth, pair these cookies with a rich hot chocolate or a warm homemade caramel sauce. The combination of the sweet and savory flavors is sure to satisfy your cravings.
For those who prefer a nutty twist in their desserts, serve these thumbprint cookies with creamy hazelnut espresso spread or peanut butter. The delicious mix of salty and sweet will elevate the taste of these already addictive treats.
Another fun way to enjoy these cookies is to take them to the next level by adding some chocolate into the mix. You can make double chocolate espresso thumbprint cookies by adding 1/2 cup of chocolate chips or cocoa powder into the cookie dough mix before baking. Alternatively, drizzle melted dark and white chocolate on top of your freshly baked cookies for an added decadence.
No matter how you choose to serve them, these espresso thumbprint cookies are guaranteed to make you fall in love with their deliciousness over and over again!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
One of the great features of these espresso thumbprint cookies is that they can be made ahead and stored for later enjoyment. Whether you want to have some ready for a busy morning or a last-minute event, these cookies can be conveniently prepared in advance.
To make sure your cookies remain fresh, store them in an airtight container or plastic bag at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you need to extend their shelf life, you can keep them in the fridge for up to a week or freeze them for up to three months.
When reheating your cookies, be careful not to overheat them, as this may result in dry or burnt cookies. To reheat, heat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and place your cookies on a baking sheet for about 5-7 minutes. This will revive their freshness and enhance their flavor with a quick warmup, making them worth every bite.
Overall, these espresso thumbprint cookies are perfect as make-ahead treats for when you want a little caffeine buzz with your sweet tooth craving. Whether it’s a pick-me-up snack or an after-dinner delight, these cookies will satisfy your caffeine and sugar cravings all at once.
Tips for Perfect Results
Let’s talk about making these delicious Espresso Thumbprint Cookies! Here are some essential tips to ensure the perfect outcome every time:
1. Invest in good quality espresso coffee powder
A high-quality instant espresso powder will have a more robust and concentrated flavor, resulting in a better taste of your cookies. When choosing your ingredients, it’s essential to prioritize quality over affordability.
2. Room temperature ingredients
To guarantee consistent results, it’s vital to use room temperature ingredients for the cookie dough. Make sure the butter and eggs have been out of the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before using them.
3. Chill the dough before baking
Chill the dough before baking for at least an hour or even overnight to help it hold its shape when baking. This step will also intensify the flavors of the cookies.
4. Achieving a deep thumbprint without cracking
A common issue with thumbprint cookies is that the cookie dough may crack or spread when forming a deep cavity into the cookie center. The trick is to press down gently to create an indentation and avoid pressing too hard, which will crack them.
5. Preheat oven temperature
Make sure to preheat your oven accurately to 350°F before baking the cookies. An inadequate oven temperature can cause uneven baking, resulting in undercooked or burnt cookies.
6. Avoid leaving cookies in the oven for too long
Timing is crucial when baking these cookies! It can be challenging to determine precisely when your cookies are done since they should be slightly soft when you take them out of the oven. Remember that the cookies will continue cooking on the tray outside of the oven because of their residual heat.
7. Experiment with different fillings
The beauty of thumbprint cookies is that you can customize them as per your preferences by trying out different types of fillings such as caramel, hazelnut espresso or chocolate chips. Try combining various types of filling together like Chocolate Espresso Thumbprint Cookies, or Espresso Caramel Thumbprint Cookies for a unique twist.
With these tips in mind, you’re sure to create perfect Espresso Thumbprint Cookies every time you bake. Enjoy these delicious treats on their own or pair them with coffee, milk, or hot cocoa as an afternoon snack or dessert.
FAQ
Before we wrap up this espresso thumbprint cookie recipe article, let me address some frequently asked questions. From cookie dough consistency to ingredient substitutions, I’ve got all the answers you need to help you achieve perfect results every time you bake these delicious cookies. So let’s get started!
What is the best cookie to eat with espresso?
Pairing an Espresso with a Stroopwafel can enhance the taste of both the coffee and the cookie due to their complementary flavors. The high caffeine content in the Espresso makes it the perfect match for the sweet and gooey Stroopwafel. For an even better experience, try placing the cookie on top of your espresso and wait for it to slightly dissolve before savoring each bite.
Why did my thumbprint cookies flatten?
Have you ever wondered why your thumbprint cookies tend to spread during baking? It could be due to the temperature of the butter used. As a barista, I would suggest refrigerating the dough for an hour before baking to avoid this issue. This quick tip can save your cookies from becoming flat and unattractive.
How much caffeine is in an espresso cookie?
Are you curious about the caffeine content in an Espresso Cookie? Despite containing a dash of Espresso powder, the reality is that these cookies only have a mere 23 milligrams of caffeine in each cookie.
How do you keep thumbprint cookies from cracking?
Minimizing thumbprint cookie cracking is all about ensuring that the dough remains soft and easy to handle. To achieve this, it’s recommended that the cookie dough be allowed to rest for at least 15 minutes at room temperature after being prepared. This helps to reduce stickiness and make the dough easier to shape. Keeping the dough at room temperature is key to preventing cracking and ensuring that the cookies turn out perfect.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, the Espresso Thumbprint Cookies recipe is a must-try for every coffee and dessert lover. These cookies are not only delicious and addictive, but also very versatile, offering endless possibilities for personalization and variations. Imagine biting into a chocolate espresso thumbprint cookie or indulging in an espresso caramel thumbprint cookie topped with caramel sauce – the options are endless.
With the simple ingredient list, this recipe is easy to follow and can be made ahead of time for convenience. You can also experiment with different substitutions and variations to suit your taste preferences. The heavy whipping cream and instant espresso powder add a rich coffee flavor that will leave you craving more.
As a barista, I can attest to the power of caffeine and its ability to enhance any dessert experience. The Espresso Thumbprint Cookies recipe offers the perfect balance of sweetness and caffeine that will satisfy your cravings while giving you a little extra energy boost.
Incorporating coffee into desserts is not new, but this recipe takes it to another level by creating bite-sized treats that pack a punch. So put on some Betty Crocker tunes, heat up the oven to 350ºF, shape your dough into thumbprints, and get creative with your toppings. Trust me, these cookies will be the talk of any party or gathering!
Try out this Espresso Thumbprint Cookies recipe today and let us know how it turns out in the comments below!
Espresso Thumbprint Cookies Recipe
Ingredients
cookies
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 3/4 cup butter, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
- 1 egg
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons baking cocoa
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
espresso filling
- 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 teaspoons instant espresso coffee powder (dry)
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coffee-flavored liqueur (optional)
Instructions
- Heat oven to 350°F Beat sugar, butter, vanilla and egg in a large bowl with electric mixer on medium speed, or mix with spoon. Stir in flour, cocoa and salt. Shape dough into 1-inch balls. Place about 2 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheet. Press thumb or end of a wooden spoon into the center of each cookie. Do not press all the way to the cookie sheet.
- Bake 7 minutes to 11 minutes or until edges are firm. Quickly remake indentations with the end of a wooden spoon if necessary. Immediately remove from cookie sheet to wire rack.
- Cool completely, about 30 minutes. Meanwhile, make Espresso Filling.
- Spoon a rounded 1/2 teaspoon Espresso Filling into indentation in each cookie.
- ESPRESSO FILLING.
- Mix whipping cream and instant coffee in 1-quart saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until steaming and coffee is dissolved. Remove from heat; stir in chocolate chips until melted. Stir in liqueur, if desired. Cool about 10 minutes or until thickened.
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