These rich, fudgy chocolate cookies are elevated with a delicious espresso flavor, featuring the classic crinkle appearance and a soft, chewy center. Perfect for coffee lovers and chocolate enthusiasts alike, these cookies offer a perfect balance of indulgence and flavor in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Espresso Chocolate Crinkle Cookies are the ideal treat for those who enjoy a sweet, yet slightly sophisticated flavor profile. The deep, rich taste of cocoa paired with the subtle kick of espresso creates a delightful combination, making these cookies a perfect choice for any occasion. Their soft, chewy center and signature crinkled look will make them a hit at any gathering, especially during the holidays or as a cozy snack with a cup of coffee. These cookies are also easy to make and pack a lot of flavor in every bite.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 teaspoons espresso powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup light brown sugar
¼ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
½ cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
½ cup powdered sugar (for rolling)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs and vanilla extract; beat until light and fluffy, about 2-4 minutes.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, espresso powder, baking soda, and salt.
Mix Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. If using, fold in mini chocolate chips. The dough will be soft and sticky.
Chill Dough: Transfer the dough to an airtight container and refrigerate overnight, or for at least 3-4 hours, to allow it to firm up.
Preheat Oven: When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare for Rolling: Place ½ cup granulated sugar in one small bowl and ½ cup powdered sugar in another.
Form Cookies: Using a tablespoon-sized scoop, portion the chilled dough and roll into balls. Roll each ball first in granulated sugar, then generously in powdered sugar, ensuring an even coating.
Bake: Arrange the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 3 inches apart. Bake for 9-11 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers remain soft.
Cool: Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 3 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus chilling time)
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling time)
Servings: 40 cookies
Calories: Approximately 100 kcal per cookie

Variations

Add nuts: Try adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough for extra crunch and flavor.
Dark chocolate version: Use dark chocolate chips instead of mini chocolate chips for a more intense chocolate flavor.
Minty twist: Add a teaspoon of mint extract for a refreshing mint-chocolate version of this recipe.
Flavored sugar: Experiment with different sugars for rolling, such as cinnamon sugar for a spiced flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store your Espresso Chocolate Crinkle Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Freezing: You can freeze the dough before baking. Just portion out the dough into balls, roll them in the sugar, and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.
Reheating: If you prefer warm cookies, you can reheat them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

1. Can I use instant coffee instead of espresso powder?

Yes, instant coffee can be used in place of espresso powder. The flavor may be slightly different, but it will still give your cookies that coffee-infused taste.

2. How do I prevent the dough from being too sticky?

Make sure the dough is chilled for at least 3-4 hours before rolling. If the dough remains too sticky, lightly dust your hands with flour to make rolling easier.

3. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend is suitable for baking to ensure the cookies hold together properly.

4. How can I make these cookies less sweet?

If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the amount of sugar in the dough by ¼ cup. You can also skip the granulated sugar for rolling and use powdered sugar only.

5. Can I make these cookies without chocolate chips?

Yes, the chocolate chips are optional. You can leave them out or replace them with a different mix-in like chopped chocolate, nuts, or dried fruit.

6. How should I store leftover cookies?

Store your leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed bag for up to 3 months.

7. Can I make these cookies ahead of time for a party?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time, refrigerate it overnight, and bake the cookies the next day. Alternatively, you can bake them ahead and store them in an airtight container until you're ready to serve them.

8. Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of unsweetened cocoa powder?

It’s best to use unsweetened cocoa powder for this recipe as it ensures the right level of bitterness to balance the sweetness of the cookie. Regular cocoa powder may alter the taste.

9. Why do I need to chill the dough before baking?

Chilling the dough allows the cookies to hold their shape during baking and enhances the crinkled texture. It also helps develop the flavor and gives the dough the perfect consistency.

10. What’s the best way to prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking?

Make sure your dough is well-chilled before baking, and avoid placing the dough balls too close together on the baking sheet. If the dough warms up too much, it might spread more than desired.

Conclusion

Espresso Chocolate Crinkle Cookies are the perfect blend of rich chocolate flavor and a subtle hint of coffee, making them irresistible for any dessert lover. Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion, a holiday treat, or just a cozy snack, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Their fudgy center, crinkled appearance, and indulgent taste will have everyone reaching for more.