If you are looking to indulge in a cookie that perfectly balances rich, nutty flavors with the punch of coffee and the sweet crunch of toffee, then you absolutely need to try the Brown Butter Coffee Toffee Cookies Recipe. This delightful treat combines the deep aroma of browned butter with the boldness of instant coffee granules and the addictive texture of toffee bits, resulting in a cookie that feels cozy, sophisticated, and utterly irresistible. Once you take a bite, you’ll understand why these cookies quickly become a favorite for cozy afternoons or sharing with friends over a warm cup of tea or coffee.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Brown Butter Coffee Toffee Cookies Recipe uses a handful of simple yet carefully chosen ingredients that each play a crucial role in creating the cookie’s signature flavor and texture. From the golden richness of butter to the subtle bitterness of instant coffee, every element has its part in this delicious symphony.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Browning this butter gives the cookies their deep, nutty base flavor that sets them apart.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: Adds moisture and a warm caramel undertone that complements the coffee perfectly.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Balances sweetness and helps create a slight crispness around the edges.
- 1 egg: Binds the ingredients together and provides structure for soft yet chewy cookies.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with sweet, aromatic notes.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: The foundation of the cookie, giving it body and tenderness.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise gently for a light texture.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies the other flavors.
- 1/4 cup instant coffee granules: Infuses the dough with just the right amount of coffee flavor without bitterness.
- 1/2 cup toffee bits: Brings irresistible crunchy bursts of caramel sweetness with every bite.
How to Make Brown Butter Coffee Toffee Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Butter
Start by melting the unsalted butter over medium heat in a small saucepan. Keep your eyes on it as it melts and begins to bubble. In about 3 to 4 minutes, you’ll notice it turning a beautiful golden brown with a fragrant, nutty aroma. That’s exactly what you want. Remove it from the heat and let it cool just enough so it’s warm but not hot—this will help create that rich, toasty flavor that defines these cookies.
Step 2: Mix Sugars and Brown Butter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the browned butter along with the brown sugar and granulated sugar until they’re smoothly combined. This mixture forms the luscious, caramel-like base that keeps the cookies tender and flavorful.
Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla
Crack in the egg and pour in the vanilla extract, then whisk the mixture until fully blended. These add moisture and depth to the dough, ensuring your cookies bake up soft and perfectly spiced.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and instant coffee granules. The coffee granules dissolve just enough during baking to layer in that pleasant coffee taste without overpowering the sweetness.
Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients Into Wet
Gradually add the dry ingredient mix to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix here; you want to maintain a tender crumb rather than a tough texture.
Step 6: Fold in Toffee Bits
Gently fold the toffee bits into the dough. They will add those delightful pockets of caramel crunch that make every bite a little celebration.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Scoop spoonfuls of dough onto an ungreased baking sheet, spacing them out so they have room to spread. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges turn a lovely golden brown. This ensures a crisp exterior but a soft, chewy center.
Step 8: Cool Before Enjoying
Once out of the oven, let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for a few minutes so they set up nicely. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing their flavors to deepen as they cool.
How to Serve Brown Butter Coffee Toffee Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
While these cookies are delicious on their own, you can elevate them by sprinkling a touch of flaky sea salt on top before baking to contrast the sweetness. Alternatively, a light drizzle of melted dark chocolate over cooled cookies adds a rich, decadent finish.
Side Dishes
Pair these cookies with a cup of your favorite coffee or a frothy cappuccino for an elegant coffeehouse vibe. They also work wonderfully alongside a chilled glass of milk or even a cozy mug of spiced chai for a comforting snack break.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, arrange the Brown Butter Coffee Toffee Cookies Recipe on a decorative platter alongside mini espresso cups or cookie sandwiches filled with coffee-flavored cream. Wrapping a few in parchment paper tied with twine makes a charming homemade gift that friends and family will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh and soft for up to a week, giving you plenty of time to savor each bite or share them with visitors.
Freezing
You can freeze these cookies, either baked or as dough balls. For baked cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to three months and thaw quickly at room temperature.
Reheating
To revive the fresh-baked warmth, pop the cookies in a microwave for about 10 seconds or bake briefly at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes. This restores that soft texture and melts the toffee bits slightly, making each bite taste freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use brewed coffee instead of instant coffee granules?
Instant coffee granules are preferred because they disperse evenly in the dough and provide concentrated flavor without adding moisture. Using brewed coffee might affect the dough’s texture and requires adjustments for liquid content.
Is it necessary to brown the butter? What does it do?
Browning the butter is key to unlocking a rich, nutty flavor that gives these cookies their distinctive taste. It adds depth and complexity that plain melted butter cannot provide.
Can I substitute toffee bits with chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Chocolate chips will lend a different sweetness and texture, making the cookies more chocolaty while still complementing the coffee flavor nicely.
Are these cookies chewy or crispy?
They have a delightful combination of a slightly crisp edge with a chewy, soft center, thanks to the browned butter and sugars used in the recipe.
Can I make this recipe vegan or gluten-free?
This recipe relies on eggs, butter, and all-purpose flour, so adjustments would be needed for vegan or gluten-free versions, such as using plant-based butter, egg substitutes, and gluten-free flour blends.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say the Brown Butter Coffee Toffee Cookies Recipe is a game-changer for your cookie repertoire. Its perfect blend of deeply flavorful butter, invigorating coffee, and sweet toffee makes it a treat you will want to bake again and again. Whether you are looking for the perfect afternoon snack or a charming gift to share, these cookies will surprise and delight every time.
Print
Brown Butter Coffee Toffee Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Brown Butter Coffee Toffee Cookies combine the rich, nutty flavor of brown butter with robust coffee granules and sweet toffee bits, creating a unique and indulgent cookie perfect for coffee lovers. With a crisp edge and chewy center, these cookies offer a delightful balance of textures and flavors that make them an irresistible treat.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup instant coffee granules
Add-ins
- 1/2 cup toffee bits
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the cookies evenly.
- Brown the Butter: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Continue cooking it for about 3-4 minutes until it turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma. Then remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the browned butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing thoroughly to incorporate.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and instant coffee granules ensuring even distribution.
- Mix Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently just until combined to avoid overmixing which could lead to tough cookies.
- Add Toffee Bits: Fold in the toffee bits carefully, distributing them evenly through the dough.
- Shape and Bake: Scoop spoonfuls of the cookie dough onto a baking sheet, spacing them to allow spreading. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden.
- Cool Cookies: After baking, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes to set, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely for optimal texture.
Notes
- Using browned butter adds a deep, nutty flavor that elevates the classic cookie.
- Instant coffee granules dissolve and blend into the dough without adding liquid, giving a subtle coffee taste.
- Do not overmix the dough once the dry ingredients are added to keep cookies tender.
- If you prefer a stronger coffee flavor, you can increase instant coffee granules slightly.
- Ensure to cool cookies on a wire rack to prevent sogginess.
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
