Espresso Martini Cookies (Print Version)

Indulgent chocolate cookies with espresso and rum flavors, dipped in white chocolate for a cocktail-inspired dessert treat.

# Ingredients:

→ Cookie Base

01 - 1 cup all-purpose flour (gluten-free if needed)
02 - 2/3 cup natural unsweetened cocoa powder
03 - 2 tablespoons instant espresso powder
04 - 1 teaspoon baking soda
05 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
06 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
07 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
08 - 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
09 - 1 large egg, room temperature
10 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
11 - 1 1/2 teaspoons rum extract
12 - 1 tablespoon milk

→ Decoration

13 - 10-12 ounces premium white chocolate
14 - Coffee beans for garnish

# Steps:

01 - In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, instant espresso powder, baking soda, and salt until thoroughly combined.
02 - In a separate large bowl using an electric mixer or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar on medium-high speed for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy.
03 - Add the egg, vanilla extract, rum extract, and milk to the butter mixture and beat until light and fluffy, 1-2 minutes, scraping down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed.
04 - Reduce mixer speed to low and gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
05 - Cover dough with plastic wrap and chill for at least 2 hours or up to 3 days. Do not skip this crucial step as it prevents excessive spreading during baking.
06 - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. If dough has chilled longer than 24 hours, allow it to soften at room temperature for 15-30 minutes for easier scooping.
07 - Using a medium cookie scoop (approximately 3 tablespoons), portion dough and place 2-3 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. The dough will be sticky; slightly wet your hands to prevent sticking if needed when shaping.
08 - Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and tops appear slightly soft. Cool cookies for 5 minutes on the baking sheet, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
09 - While cookies cool, place white chocolate in a microwave-safe container (a tall liquid measuring cup works best). Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until completely melted and smooth.
10 - Dip half of each cooled cookie into the melted white chocolate, then place on parchment paper. Immediately garnish each with 1-3 coffee beans. Allow to set at room temperature or place in freezer briefly to accelerate setting.

# Notes:

01 - Chilling the dough is essential - it not only prevents spreading but also enhances flavor development. Overnight chilling yields the best results.
02 - Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
03 - For a stronger coffee flavor, you can increase the espresso powder slightly.