Coffee Butter Cookies : Irresistible Holiday Treats You’ll Bake Again and Again

There’s something magical about the comforting aroma of coffee swirling through a warm kitchen, especially when it’s coming from freshly baked cookies. These Coffee Butter Cookies blend the richness of real butter with the deep, satisfying flavor of coffee, making them the perfect treat for coffee lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re diving into your holiday baking or just looking for a new go-to cookie recipe, these are destined to be a star in your sweets collection.

Soft, buttery, and gently flavored with espresso, these cookies strike the ideal balance between sweet and bold. They’re a unique twist on traditional butter cookies, adding that special something that makes people say, “Wow, what’s in these?” If you’re a fan of cozy baking like the recipes over at How Sweet Eats, then you’re going to fall hard for this delicious spin on cookie desserts.

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Why These Yummy Cookies Are a Must-Bake

These yummy cookies are more than just another sweet treat. They’re:

• Incredibly soft and buttery with a subtle coffee flavor
• Perfect for pairing with your morning or afternoon coffee
• Beautifully simple to make with basic ingredients
• Great for gift-giving or holiday cookie exchanges
• A showstopper on any Christmas dessert platter

Unlike typical sugar cookies or shortbread, coffee butter cookies bring a layer of richness that’s unforgettable. They’re easy enough for beginner bakers but impressive enough to wow a crowd. For other rich cookie ideas, you may also want to try these Pumpkin Cheesecake Truffles or Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Pancakes during the fall season.

Ingredients for Coffee Butter Cookies

Here’s everything you’ll need to make these delicious cookies. Use high-quality butter and espresso powder for the best results.

• 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon espresso powder
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2¼ cups (280g) all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• Optional: 1–2 tablespoons coarse sugar for sprinkling on top

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Step-by-Step Instructions

These cookies come together in under 30 minutes and bake into golden perfection. Here’s how to make them:

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to beat the softened butter with the granulated sugar until light and fluffy—about 2–3 minutes.

Step 2: Add Flavor

Beat in the espresso powder, vanilla extract, and egg. Mix until fully incorporated and smooth.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients and mix on low speed until a dough forms.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

For best results, chill the dough for 30–60 minutes. This helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.

Step 5: Shape and Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop out tablespoon-sized balls of dough and place 2 inches apart. Flatten slightly and sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until edges are golden.

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy

Let cookies cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature with a hot drink like Lavender Lemonade or your favorite non-alcoholic coffee.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Stand mixer or electric hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheet
• Cooling rack
• Cookie scoop (optional but helpful)

Tips for Perfect Coffee Cookies Every Time

• Use room temperature butter to ensure your dough mixes evenly.
• Don’t skip chilling—this prevents the cookies from overspreading.
• Use quality espresso powder for a more refined coffee flavor.
• Add coarse sugar on top before baking for a little sparkle and crunch.

Want a savory breakfast pairing? Try these Croissant Breakfast Boats alongside your cookies for the ultimate brunch spread.

Flavor Variations and Add-Ins

Take your coffee butter cookies to the next level with these fun variations:

• Add mini chocolate chips for mocha-style cookies
• Drizzle with a simple vanilla glaze
• Sprinkle with cinnamon before baking
• Make sandwich cookies with a buttercream or chocolate filling
• Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for texture

If you love twist-on-classic treats, you’ll enjoy our Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls too!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your cookies come out perfect every time:

• Don’t overbake — they should be lightly golden, not brown
• Avoid cold butter — it won’t cream properly with the sugar
• Measure flour correctly — too much makes the cookies dense
• Don’t skip chilling — warm dough leads to flat cookies

For more baking tips and cookie success stories, check out these festive Rice Krispie Treat Ghosts—a holiday favorite!

Why These Coffee Butter Cookies Are Perfect for the Holidays

These cookies check all the boxes for holiday baking. They have an elevated flavor that feels elegant and grown-up, perfect for gifting, cookie swaps, or your Christmas desserts table. The buttery base makes them melt-in-your-mouth delicious, while the espresso flavor sets them apart from traditional sugar cookies.

They also package beautifully for holiday gifts. Stack them in a clear bag or cookie tin with festive ribbon and pair with a bag of specialty coffee or a cute mug. For a full treat basket, consider adding Mini Pumpkin Bread with Cinnamon Swirl or Apple Crisp with Oatmeal.

How to Store and Freeze Coffee Butter Cookies

Keep these cookies fresh and delicious with proper storage:

• Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days
• Freezer (unbaked dough): Roll into balls and freeze for up to 3 months
• Freezer (baked): Cool completely and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature.

For more make-ahead friendly treats, check out Freezer Breakfast Sandwiches.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Coffee Butter Cookies

These cookies are wonderful with warm or chilled beverages. Try them with:

• A warm mug of hot cocoa or chai
• Strawberry Cream Soda for a refreshing twist
• Cold brew or classic coffee
• Herbal teas with floral notes
• A cozy latte with cinnamon or vanilla

Round out your dessert table with Cheesecake Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies for a crowd-pleasing cookie platter.

Serving and Presentation Tips

For a stunning cookie display:

• Serve on a white or wooden platter with coffee beans scattered for effect
• Use festive parchment or wax paper in gift boxes
• Stack and tie with baker’s twine for holiday cookie exchanges
• Pair with Pumpkin Fluff Dip and crackers for a fun sweet-savory board

You can also add these cookies to a cookie charcuterie board with Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies for a fall-themed spread.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use instant coffee instead of espresso powder?
You can, but the flavor will be milder and may not dissolve as well in the dough.

Do I need to chill the dough?
Yes! Chilling helps control spreading and improves flavor.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Definitely. Wrap and chill for up to 3 days, or freeze.

Are these cookies soft or crisp?
They’re soft and tender in the middle with lightly crisp edges.

Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, and they’ll still be delicious.

Final Thoughts on Coffee Butter Cookies

If you’re looking to upgrade your holiday cookie game or simply want a new go-to cookie dessert, these Coffee Butter Cookies will not disappoint. They’re a charming mix of rich butter and subtle coffee that elevates any dessert table. Whether you’re hosting a cookie exchange, planning your Christmas baking, or just treating yourself, this recipe delivers warmth, flavor, and festive vibes in every bite.

They’re also a perfect companion to your next movie night, tea party, or Pumpkin Chicken Chili dinner. You’ll love how easily they come together and how quickly they disappear.

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