# Espresso Chocolate Shortbread Cookies
As the festive season draws near, many of us start to contemplate the delicious goodies we can create for family and friends. One exceptional recipe that should be included in your Christmas baking lineup is the Espresso Chocolate Shortbread Cookie. Drawing inspiration from Dorie Greenspan’s baking book “Baking: From My Home to Yours,” this recipe merges the luxurious flavors of chocolate and coffee, resulting in an irresistible treat that is bound to impress.
## The Ideal Blend
Espresso and chocolate create a perfect pairing. Incorporating espresso not only elevates the chocolate flavor but also contributes a richness that makes these cookies genuinely addictive. The balance between the coffee’s bitterness and the chocolate’s sweetness cultivates a delightful flavor profile that is ideal for the holiday season.
## Essential Ingredients
To prepare these cookies, you will require the following components:
– Unsalted butter
– Powdered sugar
– All-purpose flour
– Cocoa powder
– Espresso powder
– A dash of salt
Though the original recipe is already superb, a modest increase in powdered sugar along with a hint of salt can enhance the flavor even more.
## Baking Suggestions
1. **Chill the Dough**: Once you have combined your ingredients, place the dough in the refrigerator for a couple of hours. This step is essential as it aids the cookies in keeping their shape during baking.
2. **Baking Duration**: Monitor the cookies as they bake. They might seem underbaked since they don’t change much in color. The trick is to check the bottom; a lovely golden hue signifies they are ready. Overbaking can result in an undesirable texture.
3. **Flavor Maturation**: The taste of these cookies intensifies after a day or so, making them even more delightful. Consider preparing them in advance to let the flavors meld.
## Serving Ideas
Espresso Chocolate Shortbread Cookies are ideal for holiday celebrations or as a considerate gift. They complement a cup of coffee beautifully, enhancing the coffee flavor in the cookies while providing a warm, cozy experience.
## Conclusion
Dorie Greenspan’s Espresso Chocolate Shortbread Cookies are an essential item to try this holiday season. Their rich flavors and delicate texture make them a wonderful addition to any cookie spread. Whether you’re baking for yourself or giving to loved ones, these cookies are guaranteed to be a success. Enjoy your baking!