Salted Espresso Brownie Cookies Recipe

These cookies combine all the best elements of a fudgy brownie and a chewy cookie, resulting in a decadent treat that’s impossible to resist. The addition of espresso gives them a sophisticated twist, enhancing the deep chocolate flavor, while the flaky sea salt sprinkled on top creates a perfect balance of sweet and salty.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This ensures that your cookies will bake evenly and won’t stick to the tray.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chopped semi-sweet chocolate and the unsalted butter together. You can also use a double boiler if you prefer.
2. Microwave Method: Heat the chocolate and butter in short bursts of 20-30 seconds, stirring in between to ensure it doesn’t burn. Stir until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
3. Double Boiler Method: Fill a saucepan with a couple of inches of water and bring to a simmer. Place a heatproof bowl on top (the bowl should not touch the water). Add the butter and chopped chocolate to the bowl and stir occasionally until melted and smooth.
4. Once melted, set aside the chocolate mixture to cool slightly. It should be warm but not hot when added to the cookie dough.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

1. Whisk together the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, unsweetened cocoa powder, and espresso powder. Set aside.
2. Optional: If you’re adding cinnamon or any crushed espresso beans, whisk them into the dry ingredients as well for even distribution.

Step 4: Cream the Butter and Sugars

1. Cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a large mixing bowl. You can use a hand mixer or stand mixer with the paddle attachment. Beat on medium-high speed for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
2. Add the eggs, one at a time: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add the vanilla extract and beat for another 30 seconds to combine.

Step 5: Add the Melted Chocolate Mixture

1. Once the butter and sugar mixture is light and fluffy, pour in the melted chocolate mixture and mix on low speed until fully incorporated. The batter will be thick and glossy at this point.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix, as this can lead to dense cookies.
2. Stir in the chocolate chips (either semi-sweet, milk chocolate, or both), making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 7: Chill the Dough

1. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator. Chilling the dough helps to prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking and allows the flavors to meld together.

Step 8: Scoop and Bake

1. Scoop the dough: Once chilled, use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to form dough balls (about 1.5 inches in diameter). Space them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
2. Sprinkle with sea salt: Before baking, sprinkle a small pinch of flaky sea salt on top of each cookie dough ball. This adds the signature salty-sweet contrast that makes these cookies irresistible.
3. Bake the cookies: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. The cookies should appear set at the edges, but the centers will still look slightly soft. They will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.
4. Cool the cookies: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for the Best Salted Espresso Brownie Cookies

1. Chill the Dough: This step is essential for achieving chewy, fudgy cookies. If you skip this step, your cookies may spread too thin and lack the desired texture.
2. Adjust the Espresso: If you prefer a stronger coffee flavor, you can add up to 3 tablespoons of espresso powder. However, be cautious, as too much espresso can overpower the chocolate flavor.
3. Use Good Quality Chocolate: Since the chocolate flavor is the backbone of these cookies, use high-quality semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate for the best results. You can use chocolate chips, but chopping up a bar of chocolate will give the cookies more unevenly distributed chunks for extra texture.
4. Don’t Overbake: These cookies should still appear soft in the center when you remove them from the oven. Overbaking will lead to a drier texture. They will firm up as they cool.
5. Flaky Sea Salt: The final touch of flaky sea salt is crucial to balancing the sweetness and espresso flavor. Don’t skip this step!

Variations

1. Gluten-Free: You can make these cookies gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure your baking powder is also gluten-free.
2. Nutty Version: For added texture and flavor, fold in chopped walnuts or pecans along with the chocolate chips. The nuts pair wonderfully with the rich chocolate and espresso.
3. Dairy-Free: If you need a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with a dairy-free butter alternative (like vegan butter) and ensure that the chocolate you use is dairy-free.
4. Vegan Version: To make these cookies vegan, replace the eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use dairy-free butter and chocolate.
5. More Coffee Flavor: If you’re a true coffee enthusiast, add a shot of espresso to the dough or even a little brewed coffee. You can reduce the amount of instant espresso powder to compensate.

Serving Suggestions

These cookies are perfect for any occasion, from a casual coffee break to a more formal dessert platter. Here are a few ideas for serving:

1. With Coffee: These cookies pair beautifully with a freshly brewed cup of coffee or espresso. The coffee flavor complements the espresso in the cookies and creates a delightful experience for coffee lovers.
2. With Milk: A classic pairing for any cookie! The creamy richness of milk provides a lovely contrast to the salty-sweet cookies.
3. On a Dessert Platter: These cookies are a showstopper when included on a mixed dessert platter. Pair them with other treats like chocolate truffles, fruit tarts, and mini cheesecakes.
4. Gift Idea: Pack these cookies into a mason jar with a cute label for a delicious and thoughtful homemade gift.

Troubleshooting Tips

Baking is as much about understanding ingredients and techniques as it is about following recipes. Here are a few common issues you might face and how to resolve them:

1. Cookies Are Spreading Too Much

If your cookies spread excessively during baking, it could be due to a few different reasons:

• Dough Not Chilled: The dough needs time to firm up in the fridge. If the dough is too soft or warm when placed on the baking sheet, the cookies will spread too thin. Always chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
• Too Much Butter: If your butter was too soft, or you used too much, it can make the cookies spread excessively. Make sure your butter is softened but not overly melted when you mix it into the dough.
• Overmixing the Dough: Overmixing the dough can lead to excess air incorporated into the batter, which may cause the cookies to spread more than expected. Mix the dough just until everything is combined.

2. Cookies Are Too Dry or Crumbly

A dry, crumbly texture might happen if the dough is missing some moisture. To fix this:

• Check the Flour Measurement: Use the spoon-and-level method when measuring flour to avoid overpacking the measuring cup, which can lead to a dry dough. Fluff up the flour first, then spoon it into the measuring cup and level off the excess.
• Underbaking: Ensure the cookies are slightly underbaked when you remove them from the oven. They should firm up as they cool on the baking sheet. If you bake them too long, they can dry out.
• Add More Fat: If your dough feels too dry, add a little more melted butter or some extra chocolate chips, which will melt into the dough during baking, keeping it moist and fudgy.

3. Uneven Baking or Browning

Sometimes, cookies can bake unevenly, especially if you’re using multiple baking sheets at once. Here’s how to prevent that:

• Oven Rack Position: Place your baking sheet in the center of the oven to ensure even heat distribution. If your oven has hot spots, rotate the sheet halfway through baking to ensure uniform baking.
• Consistent Dough Size: Use a cookie scoop to ensure each cookie is the same size and bakes uniformly. If the cookies are different sizes, some may overcook while others stay underdone.

4. Espresso Flavor Isn’t Strong Enough

The flavor of espresso in these cookies is crucial, so if it seems too mild, here are a few ways to intensify it:

• Increase the Espresso Powder: If you love coffee, you can increase the amount of espresso powder up to 3 tablespoons (instead of 2) for a stronger kick. Alternatively, substitute with finely ground coffee beans for a more authentic flavor.
• Use Brewed Coffee: You can replace part of the liquid (like milk or water) with strong brewed coffee to boost the espresso flavor without overpowering the chocolate. About 2-3 tablespoons of strong coffee should suffice.
• Add Espresso Beans: For a more textured, intense coffee flavor, crush whole espresso beans and mix them into the dough. This not only enhances the flavor but also gives the cookies a delightful crunch.

5. Cookies Are Too Soft

If your cookies are too soft in the center, it’s likely due to underbaking. However, you can try these steps to firm them up:

• Baking Time: Extend the baking time by 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overbaking. Remember, cookies will continue to cook on the sheet after you remove them from the oven.
• Chill the Dough Longer: If the dough is too soft to form cookies properly, you can chill it longer. A dough that is too soft may need an extra 15-30 minutes in the fridge.

Variations of Salted Espresso Brownie Cookies

One of the most delightful things about baking cookies is experimenting with different flavors, textures, and ingredients. Here are several variations to try to customize your Salted Espresso Brownie Cookies.

1. White Chocolate and Espresso Variation

If you’re a fan of the sweet contrast that white chocolate provides, this variation will appeal to you. Add white chocolate chips to the dough along with the semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate chips. The combination of the rich espresso flavor and the creamy sweetness of white chocolate creates a beautiful balance.

• How to Make: Replace about half of the dark chocolate with white chocolate chips. You can also sprinkle some on top of the cookie dough balls before baking for a marbled effect.

2. Mocha Brownie Cookies

For an even deeper coffee-chocolate experience, make mocha brownie cookies by adding brewed coffee to the dough. This enhances the chocolate flavor and deepens the espresso notes.

• How to Make: Replace a portion of the melted butter with strong brewed coffee. About 2-3 tablespoons will bring out the mocha flavor. Be sure to chill the dough well before baking.

3. Espresso Hazelnut Brownie Cookies

Hazelnuts and coffee pair wonderfully together, making this variation a rich, nutty treat. Add chopped toasted hazelnuts into the dough for a nutty crunch, and you can even use hazelnut chocolate or Nutella to enhance the hazelnut flavor.

• How to Make: Toast about 1/2 cup of hazelnuts, chop them roughly, and fold them into the dough. If desired, drizzle with Nutella or melted hazelnut chocolate after baking for extra indulgence.

4. Salted Caramel Espresso Brownie Cookies

For those who love sweet and salty combinations, try adding a swirl of salted caramel sauce into the cookie dough.

• How to Make: Drizzle store-bought salted caramel sauce or homemade caramel into the dough just before baking, and swirl it gently through the dough using a spoon or spatula. Be careful not to overmix so the caramel creates lovely pockets in the cookies.

5. Vegan Salted Espresso Brownie Cookies

For those with dietary restrictions or preferences, you can easily make these cookies vegan. Use dairy-free butter, egg substitutes (such as flax eggs), and vegan chocolate.

• How to Make: Substitute the butter with vegan butter or coconut oil, the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg), and use vegan chocolate chips. The cookies will still have a soft, chewy texture and rich flavor.

Presentation and Packaging Ideas

If you’re planning to gift these Salted Espresso Brownie Cookies or present them in a special way, here are a few ideas to make them look as delicious as they taste:

1. Cookie Gift Jars

Pack your cookies into mason jars or decorative glass containers. You can add a personal touch by tying a ribbon around the jar or adding a custom label with a baking date and a message.

• Tip: Layer the cookies in the jar so that they are visible from the outside. For extra flair, add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top or a few whole coffee beans as decoration.

2. Custom Cookie Boxes

If you’re giving them as a gift, consider presenting them in cookie gift boxes. These can be simple cardboard boxes or elegant wooden containers. Line the box with parchment paper or a festive napkin, arrange the cookies neatly, and add a handwritten note or tag.

• Tip: Wrap the box in a clear cellophane bag and tie it with twine or ribbon for a charming touch. You can also add a small bag of espresso beans for an added gift.

3. Cookie Platter for Parties

Serve these cookies on a cookie platter along with other baked goods, such as biscotti, mini tarts, and fruit pastries. If you’re having a coffee or dessert-themed gathering, these cookies will be a great centerpiece.

• Tip: Pair the platter with a coffee station, featuring brewed coffee, espresso, or cappuccinos, to complement the flavors of the cookies.

4. Personalize the Cookie Tops

For a more decorative touch, you can personalize the tops of the cookies by lightly pressing a chocolate-covered espresso bean into the center of each cookie before baking, creating a sophisticated and inviting appearance.

Further Expanding Your Cookie Repertoire

Once you’ve mastered the Salted Espresso Brownie Cookies, here are some other cookies that play on similar rich, chocolatey flavors or the balance of sweet and salty:

1. Brownie Cookies: Similar in structure to these, but without the coffee twist. Make classic brownie cookies by replacing the espresso powder with extra cocoa powder and more chocolate chunks for a fudgy, gooey texture.
2. Coffee Chocolate Chip Cookies: Another coffee-inspired treat, but with a more traditional chocolate chip cookie structure. The coffee elevates the flavor of the chocolate, making it deeper and more intense.
3. Salted Caramel Chocolate Cookies: For those who love salted caramel, these cookies combine rich chocolate dough with gooey caramel centers and a sprinkle of sea salt.
4. Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies: A holiday-inspired twist where you add peppermint extract and crushed candy canes into a chocolate cookie base. The result is a festive, refreshing treat that combines two chocolate layers with minty sweetness.
5. Peanut Butter Mocha Cookies: If you’re a fan of peanut butter and coffee, these cookies combine the richness of peanut butter with a slight mocha flavor. The added texture from peanut butter chips or peanuts is the perfect complement to the chewy cookie.

Final Thoughts

Salted Espresso Brownie Cookies are an indulgent treat that hits all the right notes. With their chewy, fudgy texture, deep chocolate flavor, and hint of coffee, they are an unforgettable cookie. The addition of flaky sea salt gives them the perfect balance of sweet and salty, making them a treat for all ages.

Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion, an afternoon snack, or as a gift for friends and family, these cookies are sure to impress. The versatility of the recipe means that you can easily adapt it to suit your dietary preferences or flavor preferences, ensuring that everyone can enjoy these decadent treats.

With the detailed instructions, tips, and variations above, you’ll be well on your way to creating the perfect Salted Espresso Brownie Cookies!

Salted Espresso Brownie Cookies are the perfect combination of deep chocolate, robust espresso, and a touch of sea salt to elevate the flavors. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, preparing a treat for friends, or indulging in something special for yourself, these cookies are sure to impress. Their balance of sweet, salty, and caffeinated goodness creates a unique and unforgettable flavor profile.

Experimenting with different ingredients and variations will only make this recipe more versatile, ensuring you have a go-to cookie recipe for any occasion. Whether served with a cup of coffee or presented in a festive box, these cookies will always make a statement.

Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with the delightful aroma of freshly baked salted espresso brownie cookies!

Yield: 12-14 Cookies

Salted Espresso Brownie Cookies Recipe

Print

These cookies combine all the best elements of a fudgy brownie and a chewy cookie, resulting in a decadent treat that's impossible to resist. The addition of espresso gives them a sophisticated twist, enhancing the deep chocolate flavor, while the flaky sea salt sprinkled on top creates a perfect balance of sweet and salty.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup (30g) cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt (plus extra for sprinkling)
• 2 tbsp instant espresso powder or finely ground coffee
• 1/2 cup (90g) semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
• 1/4 cup (45g) chopped dark chocolate (optional, for extra richness)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Add Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, salt, and espresso powder. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
4. Add Chocolate Chips: Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and optional chopped dark chocolate.
5. Scoop the Dough: Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop rounded portions of dough (about 1.5 tablespoons each) onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs. The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool.
7. Add Salt: As soon as the cookies come out of the oven, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top of each cookie while they are still warm for a sweet and salty finish.
8. Cool and Serve: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Chilling the Dough: Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking helps to prevent the cookies from spreading too much and results in a chewier, thicker texture. If you're short on time, you can skip this step, but it’s highly recommended for the best results.

Adjusting Espresso Strength: The amount of espresso powder can be adjusted to suit your preference for coffee flavor. If you want a stronger coffee taste, you can increase the amount of espresso powder up to 3 tablespoons. For a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount or skip it entirely.

Baking Time: The baking time can vary based on your oven and the size of the cookies. The cookies are ready when the edges are set and slightly firm, while the centers should remain a little soft. They will continue to firm up as they cool.

Flaky Sea Salt: A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top of the cookies before baking enhances the flavor, creating a perfect sweet-salty contrast. Don’t skip this step, as it’s key to balancing the richness of the chocolate and espresso.

Substitutions:

Customizations: Feel free to add chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans) or other mix-ins like white chocolate chips, caramel chunks, or crushed espresso beans to vary the flavor and texture.