Bold coffee meets buttery sweetness in these Coffee Sugar Cookies, creating a treat that’s crisp at the edges and tender in the center. They’re infused with instant espresso powder and finished with a dusting of sugar that sparkles like a morning cup of joe. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or just want something special to pair with your afternoon coffee, these cookies strike the perfect flavor balance.
This recipe is simple to follow, with no chill time needed, and the cookies bake up in under 10 minutes. The result? A deeply flavorful cookie that brings cozy café vibes to your kitchen without the need for a barista.
What Kind of Coffee Should I Use?
Instant espresso powder is ideal here—it delivers robust coffee flavor without adding moisture. If you substitute brewed coffee, the dough may become too soft. Choose a high-quality espresso powder for the most aromatic, rich result.
Ingredients for the Coffee Sugar Cookies
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp instant espresso powder
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for rolling)
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 tsp vanilla extract

How To Make the Coffee Sugar Cookies
Step 1: Whisk the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine the flour, espresso powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla
Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until a dough forms.
Step 5: Shape and Coat
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough, roll into balls, and coat each ball in extra granulated sugar.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are soft.
How to Serve and Store Coffee Sugar Cookies
Enjoy these cookies slightly warm with a cappuccino or iced latte. They also make lovely gifts when stacked in mason jars or wrapped in parchment and twine.
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the cookie dough balls for up to 2 months—just thaw slightly before baking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 48 hours or freeze it for longer storage.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. These cookies are great for gatherings and freeze well, so doubling is smart if you want extras.
Can I use decaf espresso powder?
You can! The flavor will remain rich, just with less caffeine.
What’s the texture like?
These cookies are crisp at the edges with chewy, soft centers—classic sugar cookie perfection with a coffee twist.
How can I boost the coffee flavor more?
Try adding a pinch more espresso powder or a drizzle of coffee glaze on top.
Want More Cookie Ideas with a Twist?
If you love these Coffee Sugar Cookies, check out these other flavorful favorites:
- Lemon Churro Cookies for a zesty, spiced treat.
- Chocolate Peanut Butter Dream Bars if you’re into rich, layered indulgence.
- 3-Ingredient Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies for a quick and hearty option.
- Pecan Pie Bites with warm, nutty sweetness.
- Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies for a pop of festive color.
Save This Pin + Share Your Results
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time. Find it here on Pinterest
And tell me in the comments how your batch turned out! Did you go with extra espresso? Add a sugar glaze? I love hearing how others make these their own—feel free to ask questions too. Let’s swap tips and enjoy more sweet coffee moments together.

Coffee Sugar Cookies
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 30 cookies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Coffee Sugar Cookies are buttery, crisp-edged delights infused with instant espresso powder for a warm coffee kick. They’re quick to make, perfect for gifting, and pair beautifully with any coffee drink.
Ingredients
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon instant espresso powder
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1 large egg
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, espresso powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized dough portions, roll into balls, and coat each ball in granulated sugar.
6. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes until the edges are set and centers are soft.
Notes
Use high-quality espresso powder for the best flavor.
Do not overbake—cookies should look slightly underdone in the center.
Freeze dough balls to bake fresh cookies on demand.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: coffee cookies, sugar cookies, espresso cookies
