Cozy Evening Mocha Sugar (Print Version)

Soft cookies with cocoa and espresso notes, ideal for relaxing evenings and coffee pairing.

# List of Ingredients:

→ Dry Ingredients

01 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
03 - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
04 - 1/4 teaspoon salt

→ Wet Ingredients

05 - 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
06 - 1 cup granulated sugar
07 - 1 large egg
08 - 2 teaspoons instant espresso powder
09 - 2 tablespoons hot water
10 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

→ For Rolling

11 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar

# Step-by-step Instructions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
02 - In a small bowl, dissolve the instant espresso powder in the hot water. Set aside to cool slightly.
03 - In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
04 - In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
05 - Beat in the egg, then add the dissolved espresso and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
06 - Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until a soft dough forms.
07 - Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls. Roll each ball in the extra granulated sugar to coat.
08 - Arrange the dough balls 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Gently flatten each ball with the bottom of a glass.
09 - Bake for 9 to 11 minutes, until the edges are set and the centers look slightly underbaked.
10 - Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • They strike that perfect balance between not too sweet and deeply chocolatey with just a hint of coffee buzz
  • The dough comes together in under twenty minutes, meaning you can have fresh baked cookies before your evening show starts
  • These stay soft for days, making them excellent for sharing or keeping all to yourself
02 -
  • Underbaking is your friend here, the centers continue cooking on the hot pan and stay wonderfully soft
  • Do not skip rolling the dough balls in sugar, it creates that signature crackly top
03 -
  • Use warm eggs and butter for the creamiest dough texture
  • Chill the dough for 30 minutes if it is too sticky to work with

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