Description

These coffee cardamom sugar cookies feature crisp golden edges, soft chewy centers, and a sparkling crackled sugar coating. Bold espresso flavor pairs beautifully with warm, aromatic cardamom for a cozy, bakery-style treat.

Ingredients

2 1/2 cups (315 g) all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon instant espresso powder

1 teaspoon ground cardamom

1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened

1 1/2 cups (300 g) granulated sugar

1 large egg

1 large egg yolk

2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, espresso powder, and ground cardamom until evenly combined. Set aside.
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar on medium speed for 2 to 3 minutes until light and fluffy.
Add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and fully incorporated, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed just until no streaks of flour remain. Do not overmix.
For thicker cookies, cover and refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes.
Scoop about 2 tablespoons of dough and roll into smooth balls. Roll each ball in the remaining 1/4 cup granulated sugar until fully coated.
Place the dough balls 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden and the centers look slightly soft.
Allow cookies to rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

For deeper coffee flavor, add espresso chips or finely chopped dark chocolate to the dough.

Freshly ground cardamom provides a stronger, more vibrant spice aroma.

Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, festive variation.

Drizzle cooled cookies with a light vanilla glaze for extra sweetness.

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Add a small piece of bread to maintain softness.

Warm cookies in the microwave for 8 to 10 seconds for a fresh-baked feel.

Freeze unbaked dough balls and bake from frozen, adding 1 to 2 extra minutes.

Freeze baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 months and thaw at room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cookie
Calories: 190 kcal
Sugar: 15 g
Sodium: 120 mg
Fat: 9 g
Saturated Fat: 5 g
Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 25 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 2 g
Cholesterol: 35 mg