Ingredients

½ cup (113.5 g) unsalted butter

1 tablespoon espresso powder

¾ cup (165 g) brown sugar

¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar

1 large egg, room temperature

½ tablespoon vanilla extract

¼ teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon salt

2¼ cups (175 g) all-purpose flour

½ cup (80 g) Heath toffee bits with chocolate

Flaked sea salt for topping

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and cook until golden brown with a nutty aroma. Stir constantly to prevent burning. Once browned, transfer the butter and bits to a bowl, then stir in the espresso powder. Refrigerate until the butter firms up, about 1-2 hours.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough: Using a stand mixer, beat the solidified browned butter and both sugars on medium-high for 3-4 minutes until light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla: Mix in the egg and vanilla, beating until smooth.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Add baking powder, baking soda, salt, and flour. Mix on low speed until combined, being careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Fold in Toffee Bits: Gently fold in the toffee bits until evenly distributed.

Step 6: Chill the Dough: Scoop the dough into large balls, refrigerating them for a few hours, or up to 24 hours.

Step 7: Preheat Oven & Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, sprinkle with sea salt, and bake for 11-13 minutes, until edges are golden brown.

Step 8: Cool & Serve: Let the cookies cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips & Variations

For a stronger coffee flavor, increase the espresso powder to 1½ tablespoons.

Substitute toffee bits with chopped pecans or walnuts for a nutty twist.

Chilling the dough overnight enhances flavor and helps prevent spreading during baking.

Use flaked sea salt sparingly to balance the sweetness without overpowering the flavors.

FAQs

Can I use regular brewed coffee instead of espresso powder?

Espresso powder provides a concentrated coffee flavor without adding extra liquid, so it’s best to stick with espresso powder for this recipe. Using brewed coffee would change the dough’s consistency and may affect baking results.

What makes brown butter different in cookies?

Brown butter adds a deep, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste of the cookies. It also adds richness and complexity that regular melted butter can’t match, making your cookies uniquely delicious.