As the leaves begin to fall and the air grows crisp, I find myself yearning for the warm embrace of baked treats that celebrate the season. This year, I’m thrilled to share my cherished recipe for Coffee Hazelnut Shortbread Cookies—those delightful bites that melt in your mouth. Imagine the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee combined with the buttery goodness of shortbread, punctuated by the delightful crunch of toasted hazelnuts.
What makes these cookies truly special is their versatility; whether you’re in the mood for beautifully shaped cut-outs or the ease of a slice-and-bake log, they adapt seamlessly to any occasion. Perfect for holiday gatherings or simply as a sweet pick-me-up, these cookies will leave your kitchen filled with a cozy scent that invites loved ones to gather around, eager to taste. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll understand why they have become a staple in my fall baking repertoire. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into this delightful recipe that captures the essence of the season!
Why Are Coffee Hazelnut Shortbread Cookies a Must-Try?
Irresistible flavor: The combination of coffee and toasted hazelnuts creates a symphony of earthy and nutty notes that tantalize your taste buds. Melt-in-your-mouth appeal: These cookies boast a tender, crumbly texture that seems to dissolve instantly, offering a delectable experience. Versatile preparation: Choose between adorable cut-outs for holiday cheer or the simplicity of slice-and-bake, accommodating your busy schedule. Crowd-pleasing treat: Perfect for parties, casual gatherings, or a personal indulgence, these cookies satisfy everyone. Effortless elegance: With just a few ingredients, you can impress friends and family with minimal effort while filling your home with delightful aromas.
Coffee Hazelnut Shortbread Cookies Ingredients
• Here’s what you need to create these melt-in-your-mouth delights!
For the Dough
- Salted Butter – Provides richness and helps achieve a tender texture. Note: If using unsalted butter, add 1/2 teaspoon salt.
- Sugar – Adds sweetness that balances the bitterness of coffee.
- Instant Espresso Powder – Infuses a robust coffee flavor; you can substitute with regular coffee if needed, but adjust the quantity for best results.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor depth and sweetness; optional swap with almond extract for a different nutty note.
- Almond Extract – Adds additional nutty essence; can be omitted for a simpler flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour – The primary structure builder; no substitutions needed unless aiming for gluten-free (use a gluten-free flour blend).
- Toasted Hazelnuts – Provide a toasty crunch and flavor; use raw and toast them for optimal taste, or substitute with pecans.
For the Chocolate Dipping
- Milk Chocolate Chips – Add sweetness and richness for dipping; can replace with dark chocolate for a more sophisticated taste.
- Butter or Vegetable Oil – Used to melt with chocolate for dipping; oil can provide a slightly different texture.
With these ingredients, you’re all set to whip up your own batch of delicious Coffee Hazelnut Shortbread Cookies. Enjoy the process, and watch as your kitchen transforms into a cozy haven of delightful aromas!
How to Make Coffee Hazelnut Shortbread Cookies
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Cream Together: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the instant espresso powder until fully blended, creating a rich coffee flavor.
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Add Extracts: Stir in the vanilla and almond extract, giving your dough depth and sweetness. This simple addition will elevate the overall flavor profile of your cookies.
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Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and toasted hazelnuts to the mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined; be careful not to overwork the dough as this can make your cookies tough.
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Shape the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape it into a disk. For cut-out cookies, roll to a thickness of 1/3 inch and use cookie cutters to shape. If you’re preparing a slice-and-bake variant, form a log, wrap tightly in plastic and chill.
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Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour. This not only helps to solidify the dough for easier handling but also enhances the flavor as it melds.
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Preheat and Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the cookies on a baking sheet and bake for 12-14 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. It’s always a good idea to test with a single cookie first to check for doneness.
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Cool and Dip: Once baked, let the cookies cool on the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. In a small bowl, melt the chocolate and butter together, then dip each cookie half into the melted mixture and place on parchment paper to set.
Optional: Sprinkle with sea salt before the chocolate sets for an added flavor kick.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Coffee Hazelnut Shortbread Cookies
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Butter Temperature: Ensure your butter is fully softened. Cold butter can prevent the right texture and lead to tougher cookies.
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Avoid Overmixing: Be mindful to mix the dough just until combined. Overworking it can lead to dense cookies, so stop while it’s still a bit crumbly.
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Flour Measurement: Use a spoon to fluff your flour before measuring. This prevents compacting, ensuring you don’t use too much and create a heavy cookie.
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Oven Checks: Oven temperatures can vary. Always test a single cookie for doneness to adjust your baking time accordingly for the best results.
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Storage Tips: Store these Coffee Hazelnut Shortbread Cookies in an airtight container for freshness up to a week or freeze them for later enjoyment!
How to Store and Freeze Coffee Hazelnut Shortbread Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep your cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week to maintain their delicious melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Fridge: For longer freshness, store in the fridge; cookies will stay good for up to 2 weeks if sealed well to prevent drying out.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap individual cookies in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months, preserving their delightful flavor.
Reheating: Simply thaw at room temperature or warm them slightly in an oven preheated to 300°F for 5–10 minutes, reviving that fresh-baked goodness of your Coffee Hazelnut Shortbread Cookies!
Coffee Hazelnut Shortbread Cookies Variations
Customize your Coffee Hazelnut Shortbread Cookies for an exciting twist and an irresistible taste!
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Nut Variations: Swap hazelnuts for pecans or walnuts for a different flavor profile. Each nut brings a unique essence, ensuring new delights every time.
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Chocolate Choices: Replace milk chocolate with dark chocolate for a bolder experience or leave them plain with a simple dusting of powdered sugar for elegant simplicity.
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Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a seasonal warmth. Just a hint of spice can transform these cookies into festive favorites.
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Coffee Alternatives: Use flavored coffee or hazelnut coffee instead of regular espresso powder to infuse your cookies with even more captivating flavors. It’s a delightful way to switch things up!
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Gluten-Free: Opt for a gluten-free flour blend for a worry-free alternative without sacrificing flavor or texture. These cookies remain just as scrumptious while accommodating dietary needs.
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Coconut Twist: Fold in toasted coconut to the dough for a tropical vibe. The combination of coconut and hazelnuts is a delightful surprise that will leave everyone wanting more.
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Add Sprinkles: After dipping in chocolate, sprinkle with sea salt or crushed espresso beans for an eye-catching touch that adds a gourmet feel to your cookies.
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Citrus Zing: Incorporate a teaspoon of zest from oranges or lemons into the dough for a subtle, refreshing twist. It’s a perfect contrast to the deep flavors of coffee and nuts.
What to Serve with Coffee Hazelnut Shortbread Cookies?
Warm your heart this fall with these delightful cookies that pair perfectly with comforting accompaniments.
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Rich Brewed Coffee: The deep coffee flavor in both the brew and the cookies harmonizes beautifully, creating a cozy atmosphere. Imagine indulging in a serene moment with a warm cup, a cookie in hand, as the chill of autumn settles outside.
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Spiced Chai Latte: The warm spices in chai elevate the nutty and coffee notes. Warming, fragrant, and delicious, this combo will make your afternoon feel luxurious.
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Classic Milk: A simple and nostalgic match; the coolness of milk balances the rich sweetness of the cookies, making them a delightful treat for all ages.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve these cookies alongside a scoop of creamy vanilla for a delightful contrast in temperature and texture. The creaminess of the ice cream melds perfectly with the cookie’s crunch.
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Chocolate Ganache Tart: For a decadent dessert spread, add a rich chocolate tart that complements the chocolate-covered half of the cookies. The combination will impress your guests at any gathering.
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Pecan Pie: The sweet, buttery flavors of pecan pie enhance the nutty undertones of the cookies, creating an irresistible dessert table. Each bite offers the warmth of home and tradition.
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Glazed Citrus Cake: A light and zesty cake adds brightness and balances the rich flavors of the cookies. The citrus notes refresh the palate beautifully.
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Hot Apple Cider: This seasonal favorite, with its warm spices, brings a festive element that pairs delightfully with the cookies. It’s like a hug in a cup, perfect for cooling evenings.
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Hazelnut Coffee: Complement the hazelnut crunch in the cookies with this coffee version. It reinforces the flavor and creates a delightful experience for true coffee lovers!
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Caramel Flan: The smooth, creamy texture and sweetness of caramel flan is a lush contrast to the crumbly cookies, creating a symphony of tastes and textures.
Make Ahead Options
These Coffee Hazelnut Shortbread Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following these simple steps: after mixing and shaping, wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. If you prefer, you can also freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Just remember to allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking. For an even simpler option, you can slice the chilled log and freeze individual cookies; just bake them straight from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time. When you’re ready to enjoy your cookies, bake as directed, and you’ll savor all the lovable flavors just as if they were freshly made!
Coffee Hazelnut Shortbread Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of hazelnuts should I use in my cookies?
I recommend using raw hazelnuts and toasting them yourself for the best flavor. Simply spread them out on a baking sheet and toast in a 350°F oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and fragrant. You can also substitute with pecans if you prefer a different nutty flavor!
How should I store my Coffee Hazelnut Shortbread Cookies?
Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. To ensure they stay fresh, you can also refrigerate them, where they will last for up to 2 weeks. The key here is to make sure they are well-sealed to avoid drying out!
Can I freeze Coffee Hazelnut Shortbread Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a labeled freezer bag. They’ll stay good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy one, just thaw it at room temperature or pop it in a 300°F preheated oven for about 5-10 minutes to refresh that fresh-baked taste.
What should I do if my dough is too crumbly?
If you find your dough is too crumbly and not coming together, it might be a sign that you need a bit more moisture. Consider adding a teaspoon of milk or water, mixing gently until the dough comes together. Avoid overmixing, as this can lead to tougher cookies.
Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies?
If you’re making these cookies for guests with allergies, be aware that they contain gluten (from all-purpose flour) and nuts. For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend, and feel free to replace the hazelnuts with sunflower seeds or leave them out entirely if nuts are a concern.
How do I achieve the perfect texture for my cookies?
To get that lovely melt-in-your-mouth texture, ensure that your butter is fully softened before you cream it with the sugar. Mix just until combined and avoid overworking the dough as this can lead to tougher cookies. Trust me, these little tweaks will make a world of difference in your Coffee Hazelnut Shortbread Cookies!
Melt in Your Mouth Coffee Hazelnut Shortbread Cookies Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the instant espresso powder until fully blended.
- Stir in the vanilla and almond extract, giving your dough depth and sweetness.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour and toasted hazelnuts to the mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape it into a disk. Roll to a thickness of 1/3 inch for cut-outs or form a log for slice-and-bake.
- Refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour to enhance flavor and handling.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the cookies on a baking sheet and bake for 12-14 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
- Once baked, cool on the pan before transferring to a wire rack. Melt the chocolate and butter, dip each cookie half and set on parchment paper.