Coffee Sugar Cookies Recipe

If you’re searching for a cookie that’s equal parts comforting and sophisticated, Coffee Sugar Cookies are your next baking adventure. They take the familiar softness of a classic sugar cookie and infuse it with the inviting aroma and taste of freshly ground coffee, creating a treat that’s decadent, subtly complex, and impossible to resist—whether you’re a coffee devotee or just looking to elevate your dessert tray.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of these Coffee Sugar Cookies lies in their simple yet purposeful ingredients. Every item brings something essential, from soft, buttery richness to a whisper of coffee flavor that’s both bold and beautifully balanced.

• All-purpose flour: Provides the sturdy base for the cookies, ensuring a tender but chewy bite.
• Baking soda: Gives lift and a slightly crisper edge for a perfect classic cookie texture.
• Cream of tartar: Lends a bit of tang and helps create that classic sugar cookie softness.
• Unsalted butter: Contributes creamy richness; make sure it’s room temperature for easy mixing.
• Vegetable oil: Adds extra tenderness and keeps the cookies soft for days.
• Granulated sugar: Brings necessary sweetness and a hint of crunch on the edges.
• Confectioners’ sugar: Ensures a melt-in-your-mouth texture while doubling as a base for the glaze.
• Large eggs: Bind the dough together and add subtle richness—room temperature eggs mix most smoothly.
• Vanilla extract: Elevates the flavors and deepens the warm cookie aroma.
• Freshly ground coffee beans (¼ cup, finely ground): The starring ingredient—choose your favorite roast for maximum flavor infusion.
• Coffee Glaze (optional): A simple mix of confectioners’ sugar and brewed coffee creates a sweet finish and enhances the coffee notes.

How to Make Coffee Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Sheets

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and lining your baking sheets with parchment paper. This not only ensures effortless cookie removal but also keeps the bottoms from over-browning so every Coffee Sugar Cookie bakes up perfectly golden.

Step 2: Whisk Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and cream of tartar. This simple step evenly disperses the leaveners for consistent rise and that signature sugar cookie chew.

Step 3: Cream Butter, Oil & Sugars

Using a stand mixer fitted with a paddle, cream the butter, oil, granulated sugar, and confectioners’ sugar on medium-high until ultra-light and fluffy—about two to three minutes. This step is key for achieving the delicate, pillowy center that sets Coffee Sugar Cookies apart.

Step 4: Add Eggs, Vanilla & Coffee

Lower the mixer speed to medium. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing until just combined. Next, pour in the vanilla extract and the finely ground coffee. The kitchen instantly smells incredible as the coffee blends right into the creamed mixture.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Switch the mixer to low, and with care, add the flour mixture in three rounds. Pause to scrape the sides of the bowl, ensuring a cohesive, rich dough without overworking it. You want everything just mixed for those classic cookie folds.

Step 6: Scoop and Bake

Using a 2-tablespoon cookie scoop, portion the dough and arrange the rounds one inch apart on the prepared sheets. These cookies won’t spread much, so you’ll get beautifully thick, soft treats every time. Bake for 8–10 minutes until the edges turn golden but the centers remain soft.

Step 7: Make and Drizzle the Coffee Glaze

While the cookies cool, whisk together confectioners’ sugar and freshly brewed coffee for a smooth, aromatic glaze. Drizzle over cooled cookies for that cafe-style finish, or serve some plain for a subtle sweetness.

How to Serve Coffee Sugar Cookies

Garnishes

For extra flair, sprinkle the glazed cookies with a dusting of finely ground coffee beans, a few cacao nibs, or a swirl of white or dark chocolate. Not only does this enhance the coffee essence, but it transforms each Coffee Sugar Cookie into a coffeehouse-worthy treat that looks as good as it tastes.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a piping hot cup of your favorite roast, creamy chai, or even a cold glass of milk. For a dessert spread, arrange them alongside chocolate truffles or almond biscotti—the intense coffee flavor plays well with just about any sweet accompaniment.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack tied bundles of Coffee Sugar Cookies with raffia for a homemade gift, or serve them on a rustic wooden board with espresso cups for a modern dessert bar. You can even sandwich a swipe of espresso buttercream between two cookies for an unforgettable twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your cookies irresistibly fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft for up to five days. Place a slice of sandwich bread in the container to help keep every Coffee Sugar Cookie tender and bakery-fresh.

Freezing

Both the raw dough and baked cookies freeze beautifully. Portion unbaked dough onto trays, freeze solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to three months. Baked cookies can be frozen the same way, layered with parchment. Just thaw at room temperature when your cravings hit.

Reheating

For that just-baked warmth, pop a cookie in the microwave for a few seconds. If you’ve frozen them, allow them to thaw first, then reheat gently. The glaze softens nicely, and the cookies regain their fresh-from-the-oven appeal.

FAQs

Can I use instant coffee instead of freshly ground beans?

Yes, you can swap in instant espresso powder or instant coffee—just use the same amount, and you may want to adjust to taste. Fresh grounds provide a bolder, more aromatic flavor, but instant blends in just as easily without altering the texture.

What if I don’t have cream of tartar?

If you’re out of cream of tartar, you can replace it with a splash of lemon juice or white vinegar for a similar tang. Or, leave it out entirely—the cookies will still be tasty but may have a slightly different crumb.

Is the coffee glaze necessary?

While optional, the coffee glaze takes these Coffee Sugar Cookies over the top. The cookies are perfectly delicious on their own, but the glaze adds a sweet jolt and a glossy finish that’s hard to resist.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! The dough can be made a day or two in advance—just wrap tightly and refrigerate. If it’s chilled, let it sit at room temperature for a bit before scooping and baking.

How can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Try substituting your favorite 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour. The cookies’ texture will be slightly different, but the coffee flavor will still shine.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to try Coffee Sugar Cookies in your own kitchen. With their addictive hint of coffee and classic sugar cookie comfort, they’re bound to become a new favorite for both casual afternoons and special occasions. Bake a batch, share with friends, and let each bite be a warm, flavorful escape!

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