Name: Rich Coffee Butter Cookies for Christmas
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 37 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 large egg yolk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon instant coffee (dissolved in hot water); 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup melted chocolate (for drizzling); 1 tablespoon cocoa powder (for dusting); 1/2 cup white chocolate (for drizzling); 1/4 cup coffee bean candies (for decoration)

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There’s something undeniably comforting about the scent of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house, especially during the festive season. Picture this: it’s a cozy December afternoon, and I’m surrounded by twinkling lights and the soft glow of candles, when I decide to whip up a batch of Rich Coffee Butter Cookies for Christmas. These delightful treats are not just cookies; they embody the essence of the holidays with their rich, buttery texture and a hint of coffee that complements every bite.

I stumbled upon this recipe by combining my love for all things coffee with the joy of baking during the holidays. You won’t believe how simple they are to make while still feeling elegant enough to impress friends and family! With just a handful of ingredients and less than half an hour in the kitchen, you’ll create cookies that are perfect for gift-giving or a festive gathering. So, roll up your sleeves and prepare to indulge in a sweet holiday tradition that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Why You'll Love This Rich Coffee Butter Cookies for Christmas

These Rich Coffee Butter Cookies are incredibly easy to make, allowing you to whip up a delightful batch in just under half an hour.
The flavor is simply divine, with a buttery texture complemented by the rich notes of coffee that make every bite irresistible.
Their versatility means they can be served plain or dressed up with melted chocolate and festive decorations, perfect for any holiday gathering.
Plus, these cookies are sure to impress your friends and family, making them a crowd-pleaser at any festive occasion.

Rich Coffee Butter Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough
• Unsalted butter – provides the creamy base for richness and softness.
• Powdered sugar – adds sweetness and helps create a tender texture.
• Large egg yolk – helps bind the ingredients while enriching the dough.
• Vanilla extract – enhances the flavors and adds warmth to the cookies.
• Instant coffee – delivers that rich coffee flavor, making these cookies perfect for coffee lovers.
• All-purpose flour – forms the structure of the cookies, ensuring they hold their shape.
• Salt – balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.

For the Toppings
• Melted chocolate drizzle – adds a luxurious touch and enhances the visual appeal of the cookies.
• Cocoa powder – provides a beautiful finishing dust that adds to the cocoa flavor profile.
• White chocolate drizzle – offers a sweet contrast, making them festive and beautiful.
• Coffee bean candies – perfect little embellishments for extra flair and a delightful crunch.

How to Make Rich Coffee Butter Cookies for Christmas

Dissolve coffee: Mix the instant coffee with hot water until smooth and set it aside. This step will ensure that the coffee flavor is fully incorporated into your dough.
Cream butter and sugar: Beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together for about 3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This creates the perfect base for your cookie dough.
Add egg and flavors: Mix in the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and the dissolved coffee. Stir until everything is well combined, and the mixture looks smooth and creamy.
Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually mix this dry mixture into the wet ingredients on low speed until a soft dough forms. You’re looking for a slightly sticky and tender consistency.
Shape the cookies: Pipe the dough into rosettes using a star-tip piping bag for a beautiful shape, or roll into balls and press lightly. Either way, these cookies will look fabulous!
Chill the cookies: Chill the shaped cookies in the fridge for 10–15 minutes. This will help them maintain their shape and prevent spreading while baking.
Bake cookies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the cookies for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them for that perfect golden touch!
Cool and decorate: Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before drizzling with melted chocolate or serving them plain. Get creative with your garnishing!

Optional: Sprinkle a touch of cocoa powder for an elegant finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Rich Coffee Butter Cookies Variations

Customize these cookies for a delightful twist that will surely excite your taste buds!

Decaf Delight: Use decaffeinated instant coffee for the same rich flavor without the caffeine kick. Perfect for late-night baking!
Nutty Infusion: Add 1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts or almonds to the dough for different textures and a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with coffee.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for a warm, spiced flavor that makes these cookies even cozier.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend. Just make sure to select one that includes xanthan gum for the perfect texture.
Chocolate Lovers: Fold in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips (dark, semi-sweet, or white) to the dough for an indulgent chocolatey surprise in every bite.
Minty Fresh: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the dough for a refreshing holiday twist that transports you to a winter wonderland with every taste.
Caramel Drizzle: Instead of melted chocolate, use a rich caramel sauce for drizzling on top. This sweet addition brings a delightful contrast that’s truly irresistible.
Zesty Orange: Mix in the zest of one orange for a citrusy brightness that complements the coffee flavor beautifully, creating an unforgettable taste experience.

Make Ahead Options

These Rich Coffee Butter Cookies for Christmas are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline their holiday baking! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance and store it tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can shape the cookies and chill them for up to 3 days before baking. This chilling step helps maintain their beautiful shape and prevents them from spreading. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat your oven, place the cookies on a baking sheet, and bake for 10–12 minutes until golden. By prepping ahead, you’ll ensure that these delicious cookies are just as fresh and delightful, saving you valuable time during the hectic holiday season!

What to Serve with Rich Coffee Butter Cookies?

As you indulge in the rich, buttery goodness of these delightful treats, think of equally enticing accompaniments to create a wholesome experience.

Freshly Brewed Coffee: Enhances the coffee flavor, creating a delightful pairing that coffee lovers will adore. There’s a certain magic in savoring a warm cookie with a steaming cup in hand.
Spiced Hot Chocolate: A cozy and decadent drink that complements the richness of the cookies, adding a touch of sweetness and warmth. Imagine a cozy evening with friends, sipping hot chocolate and enjoying cookies by the fire.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cold texture of ice cream beautifully contrasts the cookies’ buttery warmth, creating an even more delightful experience. Top your cookie with a scoop for an indulgent treat.
Chocolate Fondue: A fun, interactive dessert option where you can dip cookies into luscious melted chocolate, providing a decadent twist to the sweet treat.
Whipped Cream: A light, airy topping that adds a layer of softness to each bite, elevating the cookie experience. Whip it up for a touch of elegance at your holiday gatherings.
Nutty Biscotti: The crunch of biscotti complements the soft texture of the cookies, providing a delightful mix of flavors and textures that will have everyone coming back for more.
Cinnamon-Spiced Nuts: Offering a delightful crunch and a hint of spice, these nuts create a perfect balance of sweet and savory. They make an ideal finger food alongside your sweet treats.
Red Velvet Cake Slices: For a festive dessert spread, serve these cookies alongside layers of rich red velvet cake; visually stunning and decadently delicious!
Mulled Wine: A warm, spiced beverage that pairs well with the holiday vibes of the cookies, adding a cozy atmosphere to any gathering.
Fruit Salad: Fresh, vibrant fruit can cut through the richness of the cookies, providing a refreshing contrast that cleanses the palate beautifully.

How to Store and Freeze Rich Coffee Butter Cookies

Room Temperature: Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness and texture.

Fridge: For longer storage, place the container in the fridge for up to 1 week. Just note that the cookies may become slightly firmer.

Freezer: To freeze your Rich Coffee Butter Cookies, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will last for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy them warm, simply reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.

Chef's Helpful Tips

When making Rich Coffee Butter Cookies, ensure that your butter is at room temperature for the best mixing results and a fluffy texture.
Avoid overmixing the dough once you add the flour, as this can lead to tough cookies instead of tender ones.
For uniform baking, shape your cookies into consistent sizes and shapes, whether piping rosettes or rolling balls.
Always chill the cookies before baking to help them hold their shape and enhance their texture during cooking.

Rich Coffee Butter Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of instant coffee should I use for the cookies?
Absolutely! For these Rich Coffee Butter Cookies, you can use any brand of instant coffee. However, I recommend choosing a high-quality coffee to enhance the flavor of your cookies. A medium roast typically has the right balance of sweetness and bitterness, making it perfect for baking.

How should I store my cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, they can be refrigerated for up to a week, although they might become slightly firmer.

Can I freeze Rich Coffee Butter Cookies?
Yes, indeed! To freeze your cookies, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they will be good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature or reheat them for a warm treat!

What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
No worries! If your cookie dough feels too sticky, it might be due to the butter being too warm or too much moisture in the mixture. You can sprinkle a little more flour, about 1 tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a workable consistency. Additionally, chilling the dough for a bit can make it easier to shape the cookies.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make gluten-free Rich Coffee Butter Cookies, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Look for one with xanthan gum included, as this will help mimic the texture that gluten provides. Just be sure to monitor baking times closely, as they may vary.

Are these cookies safe for pets?
While these delectable cookies are a human treat, they are not safe for pets! Ingredients like chocolate and cocoa powder can be harmful to dogs and other animals; always keep your sweet treats out of reach of furry friends!