Baci Al Caffè Coffee Kisses Cookies

The holiday season is a time for indulging in delightful treats that warm the heart and create lasting memories. Among the various traditions around the world, the Italians are known for their scrumptious Christmas baking recipes that bring families together. One such beloved Italian delicacy is “Baci Al Caffè,” which translates to Coffee Kisses Cookies. These delectable cookies are not only a delight to the taste buds but also a wonderful addition to your festive spread. Perfect for sharing with loved ones or as a homemade gift, these Coffee Kisses Cookies are sure to become a staple in your holiday baking repertoire.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/3 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 tablespoons instant espresso powder
– 1/2 cup chocolate-covered coffee beans, chopped

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, using an electric mixer, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
4. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, beating until smooth and well incorporated.
5. Dissolve the instant espresso powder in 1 tablespoon of hot water to create a strong coffee concentrate.
6. Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the coffee concentrate, until a soft dough forms.
7. Gently fold in the chopped chocolate-covered coffee beans, distributing them evenly throughout the dough.
8. Using a spoon or cookie scoop, portion out small rounds of dough and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart to allow for spreading.
9. Bake the Coffee Kisses Cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until set around the edges but still slightly soft in the center.
10. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

These Baci Al Caffè Coffee Kisses Cookies are a delightful combination of rich coffee flavor and decadent chocolate, making them the perfect treat for festive gatherings or cozy nights in by the fire. Their soft, chewy texture and aromatic aroma will surely enchant your senses and leave you craving more. Whether enjoyed with a cup of hot cocoa or as a standalone indulgence, these Italian-inspired cookies are bound to become a cherished part of your holiday traditions. Share the love and magic of the season with these delicious Coffee Kisses Cookies and make this Christmas truly special.