Chocolate Espresso Crinkle Cookies

Name: Chocolate Espresso Crinkle Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup packed brown sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 large egg; 1 tbsp espresso powder; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup powdered sugar for rolling

Highlighted under: Home Baking Ideas

I absolutely adore making Chocolate Espresso Crinkle Cookies, especially during the holidays. The rich combination of chocolate and espresso creates a deliciously indulgent treat that’s perfect alongside my afternoon coffee. Each bite delivers a soft, chewy texture with a delightful crackly top that brings back memories of my childhood baking adventures. I love how these cookies not only satisfy my sweet tooth but also give a little caffeine kick, making them the ultimate go-to for energizing snack cravings throughout the day.

Created by

Sophie Adams

Last updated on 2026-01-05T21:45:34.280Z

When I first tried making Chocolate Espresso Crinkle Cookies, I was amazed by how an added espresso shot could elevate the chocolate flavor. The subtle bitterness of the coffee perfectly complements the sweetness, creating a dynamic taste experience. I also discovered that chilling the dough really enhances the texture, making them chewy on the inside while maintaining that beautiful crackled surface.

One of my favorite tips is to use high-quality cocoa powder and dark chocolate. This not only enriches the overall flavor but also makes these cookies visually stunning. Each bite is a reminder of why I love baking—transforming simple ingredients into something extraordinary!

        Why You'll Love These Cookies
        Rich chocolate flavor with a hint of espresso
Chewy texture with a delightful crispy top
Perfect for gifting or sharing with friends

      

Mastering the Crinkle Effect

Achieving that signature crinkled top on Chocolate Espresso Crinkle Cookies is all about the baking process. When you roll each cookie dough ball in powdered sugar, make sure to coat them thoroughly. This sugar crust helps the cookies to lift while baking, creating the delightful cracks that reveal the rich chocolate underneath. The visual appeal of crinkles not only makes the cookies look tempting but also reflects the soft, chewy texture inside that complements the espresso flavor beautifully.

Another tip is to ensure you don’t overbake the cookies. Start checking them around the 10-minute mark; the edges should be set, while the center remains slightly soft. This slight underbaking is crucial, as the cookies will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet. If you bake them until they are completely firm, you risk losing that chewy consistency that is the hallmark of a perfect cookie.

Ingredient Insights

Chocolate has a vital role in these cookies, providing depth and richness. For a more intense chocolate flavor, consider using high-quality dark cocoa powder instead of the regular unsweetened variety. This not only enhances the taste but also adds to the deeper color that makes these cookies so visually appealing. If you're a fan of white or milk chocolate, feel free to fold in chocolate chips or chunks after combining the wet and dry ingredients for an added texture and sweetness.

Espresso powder is another key player in this recipe. Besides giving a subtle caffeine boost, it amplifies the chocolate flavor without making the cookies taste overly coffee-like. If you don’t have espresso powder on hand, instant coffee can substitute in a pinch; just use a little less, since it can be more potent. Alternatively, you might also consider omitting the espresso altogether for a purely chocolate experience.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

To keep your Chocolate Espresso Crinkle Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can freeze the baked cookies. Just arrange them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, placing parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They’ll stay fresh for about three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to refresh their chewy texture.

These cookies are perfect for holiday gifting or as part of a dessert platter. To present them beautifully, consider packaging them in clear bags tied with festive ribbons, or arrange them in a decorative tin. Pairing these cookies with a creamy cappuccino or a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast in flavors and temperatures, making your treat even more indulgent!

Ingredients

For the Cookies

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg
1 tbsp espresso powder
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup powdered sugar for rolling

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, and melted butter. Add the egg, espresso powder, and vanilla, mixing until smooth. Gradually add the dry ingredients until just combined.

Chill the Dough

Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and keeps the cookies from spreading too much while baking.

Shape and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop tablespoons of dough and roll them into balls. Roll each ball in powdered sugar until coated and place them on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the tops look crinkled.

Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Espresso Crinkle Cookies with a cup of coffee or tea!

Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container for up to a week.

Pro Tips

For an extra treat, fold in some chocolate chips or nuts into the dough before baking!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your cookie dough seems too sticky to handle, it may be beneficial to chill it for a bit longer than the recommended 15 minutes. This extra time allows the fats to firm up, making it easier to roll into balls without making a mess. Additionally, if you notice your cookies spreading excessively during baking, consider adding an extra tablespoon of flour next time to achieve a slightly sturdier dough.

On the other hand, if the cookies turn out too dry, double-check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer. Sometimes, ovens can run hot, leading to overdried cookies. You might also want to ensure that you are measuring your flour accurately, as packing it into the measuring cup can lead to too much flour, which also contributes to dryness.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling the recipe is quite straightforward. If you'd like to double the batch for a gathering, simply multiply each ingredient by two. Keep the same baking time, but plan to rotate your baking sheets halfway through to ensure even baking. If you decide to make smaller batches, feel free to halve the ingredients, but keep in mind that baking times may vary slightly.

For those looking to make a gluten-free version of these cookies, you can substitute an equal amount of gluten-free all-purpose flour instead of regular flour. Just ensure that it contains xanthan gum, which helps bind the ingredients and maintain that chewy texture characteristic of these cookies.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ How should I store the cookies?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Absolutely! You can freeze the shaped dough balls and bake them straight from the freezer, adding an extra minute to the baking time.

→ What can I substitute for espresso powder?

Instant coffee granules can be used as a substitute, but keep in mind that the flavor may be slightly different.