November 30, 2022

Espresso Chocolate Chip Cookies

Written by Bruce and Dina Miller in Chocolate, Christmas cookies, Cookies, Featured

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

How to Store

Storing these is simple:

Be sure to allow to completely cool before storing.
We do not frost all of the cinnamon rolls, so we store the frosting in a seperate air tight container.
Store rolls in an air tight container, or wrapped in foil.
Both may be kept for up to one week, in the fridge.

Substitutions

You may want to make variatons with different flavor profiles

Ground chicken will work in this white chili
Swap a red or green pepper for the poblano for a more mild version
Add diced jalapēno for a kick!

Ingredients You Will Need

Ingredients for Cupcakes:

Flour: Provides structure to the cupcakes and helps them hold their shape.
Sugar: Sweetens the cupcakes and adds moisture, contributing to a tender crumb.
Dutch cocoa powder: Gives the cupcakes a rich, deep chocolate flavor and dark color.
Baking soda: Helps the cupcakes rise by producing carbon dioxide bubbles when combined with acidic ingredients like cocoa powder.
Baking powder: Acts as a leavening agent, further helping the cupcakes rise and become light and fluffy.
Espresso powder: Enhances the chocolate flavor without adding a distinct coffee taste, making the chocolate more intense.
Salt: Enhances the flavor of the other ingredients and balances the sweetness.
Buttermilk: Adds moisture and tenderness to the cupcakes’ texture.
Vegetable oil: Contributes to the moistness of the cupcakes and helps keep them soft.
Eggs: Provide structure, moisture, and richness to the cupcakes.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the cupcakes and adds a warm aroma.

Ingredients for Chocolate Buttercream:

Butter: Forms the base of the buttercream, providing richness and a creamy texture.
Unsweetened cocoa (Dutch-processed): Adds intense chocolate flavor and dark color to the buttercream.
Confectioner’s sugar: Sweetens the buttercream and helps to thicken it to a spreadable consistency.
Heavy cream: Adds richness and smoothness to the buttercream, helping to achieve the desired texture.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the buttercream with its warm, aromatic notes.
Espresso powder: Deepens the chocolate flavor of the buttercream without adding a distinct coffee taste, making it richer and more complex.

FAQs

Here are three frequently asked questions about chocolate cupcakes with buttercream frosting:

Can I make the cupcakes and frosting ahead of time? Yes, you can! Both the cupcakes and buttercream frosting can be made ahead of time. Simply store the unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or freeze them for longer storage. The buttercream frosting can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, allow the cupcakes to come to room temperature and whip the frosting briefly to restore its creamy texture.
Can I use a different type of cocoa powder for the cupcakes? Yes, you can use different types of cocoa powder, but it may affect the flavor and texture of the cupcakes slightly. Dutch-processed cocoa powder is preferred for its smoother, milder flavor and darker color. If you use natural cocoa powder instead, you may need to adjust the leavening agents in the recipe, as natural cocoa powder is more acidic. It’s best to stick to the type of cocoa powder specified in the recipe for the best results.
How do I achieve a smooth and fluffy buttercream frosting? To achieve a smooth and fluffy buttercream frosting, it’s important to start with softened butter and sifted confectioner’s sugar. Beat the softened butter in a stand mixer or with a hand mixer until it’s creamy and smooth. Gradually add the sifted confectioner’s sugar, beating well after each addition, until the frosting is light and fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, you can add a small amount of heavy cream or milk to thin it out to your desired consistency. Be sure to beat the frosting for several minutes to incorporate air and achieve a fluffy texture.

Espresso Chocolate Chip Cookies

Oh, let me tell you about these delightful Espresso Chocolate Chip Cookies that we adored in our home since I was a little kid! It was a regular thing during December, as my mother, Ida would whip up a large batch of these mouthwatering treats. She would keep them in old coffee cans in the freezer, and of course we would find them and sneak some out!

These Espresso Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars have a remarkable resemblance to the beloved Italian treat, biscotti, but with their own unique twist! The espresso, almonds and chocolate come together to form the perfect flavor. These delightful cookie bars possess a special crunchy texture that is simply irresistible.

Just like traditional biscotti, these cookie bars are baked to golden perfection, resulting in a satisfying crunch with every bite. The secret lies in the baking process that allows them to become wonderfully crisp and sturdy, making them perfect for dipping into a warm beverage, just like biscotti.

One of the best things about these cookies was how effortless they were to make. It was almost like magic! My mom would gather the simple ingredients, mix them together, and voilà – the cookie bars would come to life in no time. The aroma of freshly baked cookies, infused with the mesmerizing scent of espresso, would waft through the house, making it even harder to resist reaching for a bite.

Simply mix up the batter, press it in a pan, and cover it with slivered almonds. Slice these espresso chocolate chip cookies while they are still warm, these cookies set up to be a crunchy, treat that will be perfect for dipping into coffee, or milk!

large milk chocolate chips in a red bowl

Why you will love these cookie bars:

Rich Coffee Flavor: The inclusion of espresso imparts a deep and bold coffee taste, making these bars a dream come true for coffee enthusiasts who enjoy the robustness of espresso.

Perfect Balance of Sweetness: The combination of chocolate chips and a touch of sugar strikes a perfect balance of sweetness, satisfying both the chocolate lovers and those with a sweet tooth.

Easy to Make: The recipe for espresso chocolate chip bars is often straightforward and simple, making it accessible to both experienced bakers and those trying their hand at baking for the first time.

Pairing Perfection: Espresso chocolate chip bars pair exceptionally well with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of milk, making them an ideal treat for coffee breaks or afternoon indulgence.