Chocolate Espresso Crinkle Cookies

Name: Chocolate Espresso Crinkle Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons espresso powder; 1/2 cup powdered sugar for coating

Highlighted under: Basic Kitchen

I absolutely love making Chocolate Espresso Crinkle Cookies because they offer that perfect combination of rich chocolate flavor and a hint of coffee. These cookies not only look impressive with their crinkled tops, but they also deliver a satisfying texture that keeps me reaching for more. The best part is how easy they are to whip up, making them a perfect treat for when guests come over or for a cozy night in with a warm cup of coffee. I guarantee you’ll savor every bite of these delightful cookies!

Created by

Gemma Hollis

Last updated on 2026-01-05T20:09:33.956Z

When I first decided to combine chocolate and espresso in a cookie, I knew I was onto something special. The deep, rich flavors of the cocoa worked harmoniously with the coffee, creating an irresistible treat that quickly became a favorite in my household.

I discovered that rolling the dough in powdered sugar before baking gave each cookie its signature crinkle and a delightful sweetness that perfectly complements the bitter notes of the espresso. It’s a simple step that elevates the aesthetic and the taste, making them a standout treat for any occasion.

        Why You Will Love These Cookies
        Intensely chocolatey with a bold espresso kick
Beautifully crinkled appearance that's a feast for the eyes
Perfect balance of fudgy texture and delightful sweetness

      

The Role of Espresso Powder

Espresso powder is a key player in this Chocolate Espresso Crinkle Cookie recipe, as it intensifies the chocolate flavor while adding a subtle coffee undertone. Unlike instant coffee, espresso powder is made from finely ground espresso beans, which are then dried and concentrated. This means that just a couple of tablespoons can elevate the depth of flavor in the cookies without overwhelming them. If you're out of espresso powder, you can substitute it with a fine instant coffee, but be aware that it might not pack the same punch.

Incorporating espresso powder not only enhances the cookies' taste but also adds an aromatic element that enhances the baking experience. When mixed into the wet ingredients, you'll notice the rich, dark color of the batter. Stirring the espresso powder with the other wet ingredients ensures a more even distribution, resulting in richer flavor with each cookie.

Baking Tips for Perfect Crinkles

To achieve the iconic crinkled surface of these cookies, pay attention to the baking time. While baking for approximately 10 minutes is ideal, it's crucial to start checking at the 8-minute mark. The cookies should puff up slightly and develop a cracked appearance, but take care not to overbake them; otherwise, they may lose their fudgy texture. You want them to be set at the edges while remaining soft in the center for that perfectly chewy bite.

Additionally, let the cookies rest on the baking pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This brief cooling period allows them to firm up slightly, making them less likely to break as you move them. The cookies will continue to cook a little from the residual heat, sealing in that delicious shortcut fudgy center.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Espresso Crinkle Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them; simply layer the cookies between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to enjoy them, let them sit at room temperature for about 15-30 minutes or warm them briefly in the microwave for a few seconds to regain their soft texture. This can create a delightful melted chocolate experience that's hard to resist.

For a fun serving suggestion, pair these cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The creamy, sweet elements contrast beautifully with the rich chocolate and espresso flavors, balancing out the overall taste. If you're feeling adventurous, try drizzling some melted chocolate or caramel over the top for an added decadence.

Ingredients

Gather these delicious ingredients to make your Chocolate Espresso Crinkle Cookies!

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons espresso powder
1/2 cup powdered sugar for coating

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious cookies!

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and espresso powder until smooth.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.

Shape the Cookies

Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough, roll them into balls, and then roll each ball in the powdered sugar until fully coated.

Bake

Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them, and bake for 10 minutes. The cookies will crinkle and puff up slightly.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cookies to cool on the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy your delightful treats!

Let the cookies cool completely for the best texture!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of cinnamon to the dough or a few chocolate chips for added texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to make these cookies gluten-free, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum. Just ensure that the blend is suitable for baking to maintain the cookie's texture. This substitution will help retain the structure while providing the same delicious taste.

For those with dairy sensitivities, using a dairy-free butter or coconut oil as a replacement for the unsalted butter works perfectly. Just make sure the alternative you choose has a similar fat content to maintain the moistness of the cookies. Each option brings its unique flavor, adding a creative twist to the traditional recipe.

Enhancing Flavor Variations

You can easily customize these cookies by adding different flavors or mix-ins to the dough. Consider folding in chocolate chips or chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts—this adds an extra layer of texture and flavor. Just remember to keep the overall weight of the dough balanced; too many additions can affect baking time and required dough consistency.

Another great way to play with flavors is to infuse the cookies with spices. A pinch of cinnamon or a dash of cayenne pepper can add unexpected warmth and complexity to the cookies. Experimenting with different flavorings can lead to delightful discoveries that may become your new favorite version!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use decaf espresso powder?

Absolutely! Decaf espresso powder will work just fine if you want to reduce caffeine.

→ How should I store these cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, you can freeze the dough. Just scoop the dough balls onto a tray and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag.

→ Why did my cookies not crinkle?

Make sure the dough is well-chilled before baking, and ensure you roll them completely in powdered sugar.