There’s a unique joy that comes from combining two rich, comforting flavors like coffee and toffee, and that’s exactly what you’ll find in these Brown Butter Coffee Toffee Cookies. Picture this: as you’re stirring that nutty brown butter, the aroma weaves through your kitchen, igniting a sense of warmth and coziness that instantly transports you to a beloved café.
On a particularly lazy Sunday afternoon, I found myself craving something sweet but sophisticated, yet simple enough that I wouldn’t be stuck in the kitchen for hours. Rediscovering a stash of toffee bits and a dab of espresso powder in my pantry inspired this delightful creation! The blend of buttery richness, paired with the crunch of toffee and the kick of coffee, makes each bite a little piece of heaven – perfect for mingling with friends or savoring with a cup of tea at home.
If the monotony of takeout has left you yearning for homemade comfort, these cookies are a breeze to whip up. With just 20 minutes of prep and a mere 12 minutes in the oven, you’ll have a delightful batch to share (or keep all to yourself) in no time. Let’s dive into this wonderful recipe!
Why You'll Love This Brown Butter Coffee Toffee Cookies
- These Brown Butter Coffee Toffee Cookies are incredibly easy to make, allowing you to whip up a batch in just 32 minutes.
- The flavor combination of nutty brown butter, rich toffee, and robust coffee creates an indulgent treat that will impress anyone who takes a bite.
- Their versatility means they can be enjoyed on cozy evenings at home or shared at gatherings, making them a crowd-pleaser in any setting.
- Plus, the enticing aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake will leave your family and friends eager for a taste.
Brown Butter Coffee Toffee Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
• 2.25 cups all-purpose flour – essential for structure; sifted for best results.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda – helps cookies rise and contributes to a chewy texture.
• 0.5 teaspoon salt – enhances flavors and balances sweetness.
• 1 cup unsalted butter (browned) – adds a nutty richness; be sure to let it cool a bit.
• 1 cup brown sugar (packed) – brings moisture and deep caramel notes.
• 0.5 cup granulated sugar – adds sweetness and contributes to crispness.
• 2 large eggs – provides moisture and helps bind the ingredients together.
• 2 teaspoon vanilla extract – infuses a warm, sweet aroma that enhances flavor.
• 2 teaspoon espresso powder – gives a subtle coffee kick that complements the toffee bits.
• 1 cup toffee bits – adds a crunchy texture and buttery flavor to the cookies.
Now that we have everything necessary to create these delightful Brown Butter Coffee Toffee Cookies, it's time to gather your ingredients and embark on this sweet adventure! Happy baking!
How to Make Brown Butter Coffee Toffee Cookies
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures a non-stick surface and easy cleanup once your cookies are baked to perfection!
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Brown the butter by melting it in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it turns golden and develops a nutty aroma. Let it cool slightly, embracing that warm, cozy scent.
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Whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. This step is crucial for distributing the leavening agent evenly throughout the dough.
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Combine the cooled browned butter with the brown and granulated sugars in a large mixing bowl. Mix until the texture is smooth and creamy, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
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Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and espresso powder to your sugar mixture. Mix well until fully combined, enriching the dough with that delightful coffee flavor.
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Fold in the dry ingredients gradually, being careful not to overmix. Once incorporated, gently add the toffee bits, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough.
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Scoop generous tablespoons of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This allows room for spreading while baking.
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Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers look slightly soft. They’ll firm up as they cool!
Optional: Drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra indulgent treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Brown Butter Coffee Toffee Cookies are perfect for busy bakers looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it to enhance the flavors. Simply scoop the dough onto your baking sheets, cover with plastic wrap, and place in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, you can pop them directly into the oven without needing to thaw. Alternatively, you can bake the cookies and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature; they’ll be just as delicious! This makes it easy to have fresh, homemade cookies on hand whenever the craving strikes.
Brown Butter Coffee Toffee Cookies Variations
Unlock your creativity in the kitchen by trying out these fun and exciting twists!
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Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free blend to enjoy the same delightful texture without the gluten!
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Nutty Addition: Include ½ cup of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for an extra crunch and delicious nutty flavor.
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Chocolate Delight: Add 1 cup of dark chocolate chunks in place of toffee bits for a rich, chocolatey indulgence that will satisfy your sweet tooth.
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Coconut Twist: Incorporate ½ cup of shredded coconut into the dough for a tropical flair that adds chewy texture and delightful flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough for a warm spice that brings depth and adds unique flavor notes.
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Dairy-Free: Use vegan butter and dairy-free chocolate chips instead of regular butter and toffee bits for a deliciously inclusive treat.
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Fruity Surprise: Fold in ½ cup of dried cherries or cranberries for a pop of tartness that complements the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.
With these variations, you can tailor your Brown Butter Coffee Toffee Cookies to suit every mood or occasion. Enjoy experimenting!
What to Serve with Brown Butter Coffee Toffee Cookies?
Elevate your baking experience by complementing these cookies with delightful pairings that enhance their rich flavors.
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Fresh Brewed Coffee: Enjoy a warm cup of your favorite brew to accentuate the coffee notes in the cookies. The bitter-sweet dance of flavors provides a comforting experience perfect for any time of day.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully, creating a luxurious dessert. The cold, smooth texture contrasts wonderfully with the chewy cookies, making each bite delectable.
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Espresso Martini: Indulge in a sophisticated cocktail that mirrors the coffee flavor and adds a celebratory touch to your dessert spread. The creamy, coffee-infused drink brings an energetic vibe to cookie enjoyment.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Add a simple drizzle of melted dark chocolate on top for an added layer of flavor. The richness of the chocolate enhances the toffee bits while giving a polished look to your desserts.
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Salted Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some warm salted caramel over your cookies for an indulgent twist. The sweet and salty flavors meld beautifully together, creating a heavenly dessert experience.
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Nutty Scones: For a brunch setting, serve alongside nutty scones to create a variety of textures and flavors on the table. The crumbly, buttery scones beautifully complement the chewy cookies.
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Herbal Tea: Serve with a fragrant herbal tea to balance the sweetness of the cookies. The soothing notes of chamomile or mint bring a refreshing contrast, inviting a cozy afternoon break.
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Cheese Platter: Create a unique pairing with a cheese platter featuring creamy Brie or tangy goat cheese. The rich and savory elements add depth against the sweet cookie flavors for a snack like no other.
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Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds a refreshing contrast, balancing the indulgent cookies. Bright citrus or berries brighten the flavor profile, creating a perfect pairing for dessert.
How to Store and Freeze Brown Butter Coffee Toffee Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and softness.
Fridge: For longer preservation, keep in the fridge for up to a week, ensuring they are well-wrapped to prevent drying out.
Freezer: Freeze cookies in a single layer in an airtight container for up to 3 months. For best quality, separate layers with parchment paper.
Reheating: To enjoy a warm treat, microwave frozen cookies for 10-15 seconds or place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the perfect Brown Butter Coffee Toffee Cookies, make sure your butter is browned just until it has a golden color and a nutty aroma, but be careful not to burn it.
- When measuring flour, spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife for accuracy, as too much flour can lead to dry cookies.
- For the best texture, allow the cookie dough to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before baking, which helps to prevent spreading.
- Lastly, keep an eye on your cookies as they bake and remove them once the edges are set but the centers are still soft, as they will continue to firm up on the baking sheet.
Brown Butter Coffee Toffee Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the brown butter, use unsalted butter that’s fresh – you'll want it to smell sweet and clean. The brown and granulated sugars should be free of lumps and not hard, indicating they are still fresh. Opt for firm eggs that are within their expiration date for the best results as they'll contribute to the perfect texture.
What are the best storage methods for these cookies?
To keep your Brown Butter Coffee Toffee Cookies fresh, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you have extras and want to preserve them longer, you can store them in the fridge for up to a week. Just make sure to wrap them tightly to avoid moisture loss!
Can I freeze Brown Butter Coffee Toffee Cookies? If so, how?
Very! To freeze your cookies, first, allow them to cool completely. Then arrange them in a single layer in an airtight container, separating each layer with parchment paper. They’ll stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy a cookie, simply microwave for about 10-15 seconds or heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes until warmed through.
What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
No worries! If you find that your cookies are spreading excessively, this might be due to the dough being too warm or not enough flour being added. After mixing your ingredients, try chilling the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before scooping it onto the baking sheets. This helps solidify the butter, leading to thicker cookies! Always make sure to not overmix once you add the dry ingredients either, as that can cause spread as well.
Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies?
Absolutely! If you're baking for someone with dietary restrictions, you can easily make adjustments. For a dairy-free version, substitute the unsalted butter with a plant-based alternative. Be cautious with the espresso powder if you’re concerned about caffeine – a decaf option works wonderfully too! Just keep in mind that the ingredients may modify the flavor a bit.
Can these cookies be made gluten-free?
Indeed! To make these cookies gluten-free, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a one-to-one gluten-free baking mix. Make sure to look for a mix that contains xanthan gum to help mimic the elasticity of traditional flour. You might need to experiment a bit with the ratios to achieve just the right texture, but happy baking!
Brown Butter Coffee Toffee Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Brown the butter by melting it in a saucepan over medium heat until golden and nutty.
- Whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
- Combine the cooled browned butter with the brown and granulated sugars in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and espresso powder, mixing well.
- Fold in the dry ingredients gradually, then gently add the toffee bits.
- Scoop tablespoons of dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are set and the centers are slightly soft.
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