Oh, let me tell you about these delightful Espresso Chocolate Chip Cookies that we adored in our home since I was a little kid! It was a regular thing during December, as my mother, Ida would whip up a large batch of these mouthwatering treats. She would keep them in old coffee cans in the freezer, and of course we would find them and sneak some out!

These Espresso Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars have a remarkable resemblance to the beloved Italian treat, biscotti, but with their own unique twist! The espresso, almonds and chocolate come together to form the perfect flavor. These delightful cookie bars possess a special crunchy texture that is simply irresistible.

Just like traditional biscotti, these cookie bars are baked to golden perfection, resulting in a satisfying crunch with every bite. The secret lies in the baking process that allows them to become wonderfully crisp and sturdy, making them perfect for dipping into a warm beverage, just like biscotti.

Why you will love these cookie bars:

Rich Coffee Flavor: The inclusion of espresso imparts a deep and bold coffee taste, making these bars a dream come true for coffee enthusiasts who enjoy the robustness of espresso.

Perfect Balance of Sweetness: The combination of chocolate chips and a touch of sugar strikes a perfect balance of sweetness, satisfying both the chocolate lovers and those with a sweet tooth.

Easy to Make: The recipe for espresso chocolate chip bars is often straightforward and simple, making it accessible to both experienced bakers and those trying their hand at baking for the first time.

Pairing Perfection: Espresso chocolate chip bars pair exceptionally well with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of milk, making them an ideal treat for coffee breaks or afternoon indulgence.

uncut espresso chocolate chip cookie bars

Espresso Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful treat that blend the rich flavors of coffee and chocolate with a satisfying crunch reminiscent of biscotti. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the ingredients, their roles, preparation steps, storage recommendations, and additional tips.

Ingredients for Espresso Chocolate Chip Cookies:

Butter: Provides richness and contributes to the cookie’s tender texture.
Sugar: Sweetens the cookies and aids in achieving a crisp texture.
Salt: Enhances the overall flavor by balancing sweetness.
Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and warmth to the flavor profile.
Almond Extract: Imparts a subtle nutty aroma that complements the almonds and chocolate.
Instant Espresso Powder: Infuses a bold coffee flavor, enhancing the chocolate’s richness.
Flour: Provides structure to the cookies.
Chocolate Chips: Introduce pockets of melted chocolate, balancing the espresso’s bitterness with sweetness.
Slivered Almonds: Offer a crunchy texture and nutty flavor, enhancing the biscotti-like quality.

Preparation Steps:

Preheat the Oven: Set to 375°F (standard) or 350°F (convection).
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Incorporate Flavorings: Add salt, vanilla extract, almond extract, and instant espresso powder to the butter-sugar mixture; mix until combined.
Add Flour: Gradually mix in the flour until a dough forms.
Fold in Chocolate Chips: Stir in the chocolate chips evenly.
Prepare the Baking Pan: Press the dough into an ungreased 9×13-inch pan, ensuring an even layer.
Add Almonds: Sprinkle slivered almonds over the dough and press them gently to adhere.
Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the almonds turn golden brown.
Cool and Cut: Remove from the oven and let sit for 5 minutes. Then, invert the pan onto a cutting board and cut into bars while still warm to prevent cracking.

Storage Recommendations:

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to a week.
Freezing: Place cookies in a sealed container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper, and freeze for up to three months.

Additional Tips:

Cutting Timing: Slice the cookies while they are still warm (after the 5-minute rest) to ensure clean cuts and prevent them from becoming too hard to slice later.
Serving Suggestion: These cookies pair excellently with coffee or milk, making them ideal for dunking.
Texture Variation: For a softer texture, consider reducing the baking time slightly, keeping in mind that the traditional recipe aims for a crunchy consistency.

By following these steps and tips, you can enjoy homemade Espresso Chocolate Chip Cookies that are both flavorful and satisfying.