Description
Soft, chewy cookies infused with espresso and sweet caramel flavors, inspired by the classic caramel macchiato drink. Perfect for coffee lovers, these cookies can be made as thumbprints with caramel centers or simply as a delicious snack with your morning coffee.
Ingredients
🛒 Ingredients (for ~24 cookies):
For the Cookies:
2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar, packed
½ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 teaspoons instant espresso powder
½ cup caramel bits or soft caramel, chopped
For the Glaze (optional):
½ cup powdered sugar
1–2 tablespoons milk or brewed coffee
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons caramel sauce
Instructions
📝 Instructions:
Step 1: Prep Dough
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
In a separate large bowl, cream butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until fluffy. Beat in eggs, vanilla, and espresso powder. Gradually mix in dry ingredients until a soft dough forms. Fold in caramel bits.
Step 2: Shape Cookies
Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on baking sheets ~2 inches apart. For thumbprint cookies, press a small indentation in the center of each cookie.
Step 3: Bake
Bake 10–12 minutes, until edges are lightly golden. Remove from oven and let cool 5 minutes. If making thumbprints, fill centers with extra caramel or drizzle caramel sauce over the top.
Step 4: Glaze (Optional)
Mix powdered sugar, milk/coffee, vanilla, and caramel until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cookies for a sweet finish.
Notes
- Coffee Boost: Adjust espresso powder for stronger or milder coffee flavor.
- Chewy Texture: Slightly underbake for softer, chewier cookies.
- Make Ahead: Dough can be refrigerated for 1–2 days before baking.
- Variations: Add chocolate chips for a mocha twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
- Category: Dessert / Cookie
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American / Coffee-Inspired