Name: Granny Neal’s Espresso Shortbread
Prep time: 75 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 89 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (at room temperature); 3/4 cup lightly packed brown sugar; 1 tsp pure vanilla extract; 1 1/2 tsp espresso powder; 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp kosher salt; 2 cups walnut pieces

Introduction to Granny Neal’s Espresso Shortbread

Granny Neal’s Espresso Shortbread is more than just a cookie; it’s a delightful nostalgia-inducing treat that evokes memories of cozy winter evenings spent baking in the kitchen, surrounded by family. This recipe is treasured not only for its simplicity but also for the rich, espresso-infused flavor that takes traditional shortbread to a whole new level. The buttery texture, combined with the crunch of walnuts and a hint of espresso, creates a perfect symbiosis of flavors that have made it a family favorite for generations.

What makes Granny Neal’s Espresso Shortbread a cherished recipe? It’s the kind of cookie that brings people together, whether during the holiday season or during spontaneous coffee dates with friends. This treat pairs beautifully with your favorite warm drinks, adding a touch of indulgence and delight to any occasion. Plus, its straightforward preparation ensures that even novice bakers can whip up a batch with ease.

For those interested in honing their baking skills and discovering more delightful recipes, consider checking out resources like Serious Eats or New York Times Cooking. They not only provide valuable tips but also inspire creativity in the kitchen. Your culinary adventures await!

Ingredients for Granny Neal’s Espresso Shortbread

Creating Granny Neal’s Espresso Shortbread is as satisfying as enjoying the delightful cookies themselves. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

1 cup / 220g unsalted butter, at room temperature: This base ingredient gives the shortbread its rich texture and flavor.
¾ cup / 150g lightly packed brown sugar: The brown sugar adds a subtle caramel taste that perfectly complements the espresso.
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor profile—don’t skimp on this!
1 ½ teaspoon espresso powder: For that unmistakable coffee kick, espresso powder is essential. You can find high-quality options online or at local specialty stores.
2 ¼ cups / 270g all-purpose flour: This forms the structure of your cookies; be sure to measure accurately for the best texture.
½ teaspoon kosher salt: Just a touch of salt helps to balance the sweetness.
2 cups / 240g walnut pieces: These add a delightful crunch. Consider toasting them lightly before adding for extra flavor.

Prepare these ingredients, and you're on your way to baking a batch of nostalgia! For more cultivation tips, check out resources like the Cookie Academy.

Step-by-Step Preparation for Granny Neal’s Espresso Shortbread

Making Granny Neal’s Espresso Shortbread is not just about following a recipe; it's about embracing the warmth and joy of baking that connects us to those special moments in life. Whether you’re reminiscing about the holidays or simply enjoying a cozy afternoon at home, this delicious shortbread will surely delight your taste buds. Let’s walk through the preparation step by step.

Creaming the butter and sugar

The first step is crucial: it sets the foundation for the light and tender texture of your cookies. Begin by taking your unsalted butter, which should be at room temperature for smooth mixing. In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream the butter alongside lightly packed brown sugar, pure vanilla extract, and espresso powder. Mix on medium speed for about one minute until everything is well combined. The mixture should appear fluffy and uniform. This step not only adds a rich flavor to your Granny Neal’s Espresso Shortbread, but it also introduces air into the batter, which helps create that delightful crumb.

Adding espresso and mixing the ingredients

Once your butter and sugar mixture is ready, it’s time to include the dry ingredients. Gradually add the all-purpose flour and kosher salt to the butter blend. Continue mixing on medium-low speed until the ingredients just come together. You want to avoid overmixing, as this can create a tough cookie. Finally, stir in the walnut pieces, which add that lovely crunch and nuttiness. This combination not only enhances the flavor but also pays homage to Granny Neal’s original touch.

Forming the dough log

Now that you have your mixed dough, it’s time to transform it into a log for slicing. Enjoy this tactile part of the process! Using your hands, shape the dough into a log about 2 inches (5 cm) thick. This is where you can get creative—feel free to adjust the thickness based on how big or small you want your cookies. Once shaped, wrap the log in plastic wrap tightly, so it holds its form during chilling.

Chilling the dough

Understanding the importance of chilling the dough can be a game-changer in your baking journey. Refrigerate the log for at least an hour. Not only does this step help the flavors meld beautifully, but it also ensures a firmer dough that’s easier to slice. If you’re feeling proactive, you can prepare the log a couple of days ahead or even freeze it for up to a month—making it easier to whip up a batch of fresh cookies whenever you wish!

Slicing and baking the cookies

Once the dough is sufficiently chilled, it’s baking time! Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper—this will ensure your Granny Neal’s Espresso Shortbread comes off easily after baking. Slice the log into ¼ inch (6 mm) thick rounds and arrange them on the prepared sheets, leaving a little space between each cookie. They won’t spread much, but a little room is always wise.

Bake the cookies in the middle of the oven for about 12 to 14 minutes, or until they are golden on the bottom. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet until firm before transferring them to a cooling rack.

And there you have it! By following these steps, you’ll create a batch of delicious Granny Neal’s Espresso Shortbread that will be cherished just like the memories associated with it. Happy baking!

Variations on Granny Neal’s Espresso Shortbread

Espresso Shortbread with Chocolate Drizzle
Elevate your Granny Neal’s Espresso Shortbread by adding a delightful touch of chocolate. Simply melt high-quality dark chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled cookies. The rich chocolate pairs beautifully with the robust espresso flavor, creating a decadent treat that’s perfect for coffee breaks or special occasions. This combination not only looks impressive but also adds a lovely sweetness that balances the shortbread's buttery texture.

Nut-free Version of Espresso Shortbread
For those with nut allergies, you can easily adapt Granny Neal’s Espresso Shortbread by omitting the walnuts entirely. The cookies will still be deliciously rich and buttery. To enhance their flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of espresso powder or a sprinkle of sea salt atop each cookie before baking. This nut-free version continues to capture the spirit of the original, allowing everyone to enjoy this delightful treat during the holiday season or any time of year.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Granny Neal’s Espresso Shortbread

Making Granny Neal’s Espresso Shortbread is a delightful way to create lasting memories in your kitchen. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time:

Room Temperature Ingredients: Start with butter that’s truly at room temperature. This will help it cream together with the sugar more smoothly for better texture.
Espresso Powder: For an extra coffee kick, consider using high-quality espresso powder. It can elevate the flavor profile significantly.
Chilling the Dough: Don’t rush the chilling process. The dough benefits from letting it rest in the refrigerator to prevent spread during baking. You can even store the log in the freezer for later!
Bake to Perfection: Keep an eye on the color as they bake. You're looking for a golden-brown bottom.

For more tips on perfecting cookies, check out resources from America's Test Kitchen and Serious Eats. Happy baking!

Serving Suggestions for Granny Neal’s Espresso Shortbread

Granny Neal’s Espresso Shortbread brings a delightful coffee-infused twist to your usual cookie assortment. To elevate your experience, consider the following serving suggestions:

Coffee Pairing: Enjoy these cookies with a freshly brewed cup of coffee or a creamy latte. The espresso notes in the shortbread will blend beautifully with your favorite morning beverage.
Dessert Platter: Arrange Granny Neal’s Espresso Shortbread on a dessert platter alongside other treats, like chocolate truffles or fruit tarts. Your guests will love the variety!
Gifting Idea: These cookies make for a thoughtful homemade gift. Package them in a decorative box or jar for holidays or birthday celebrations—perfect for impressing friends!
Ice Cream Delight: Crumble the shortbread over vanilla or coffee ice cream for a delicious topping that adds crunch and flavor.

By incorporating these ideas, you can make your baking moments even more memorable and share the joy of these delectable cookies!

Time Breakdown for Granny Neal’s Espresso Shortbread

Preparation Time

Gather your ingredients and get everything prepped in just 15 minutes. This includes creaming the butter and sugar, mixing in the espresso, and shaping the dough. A little upfront time makes all the difference!

Cooling Time

Don't forget to let the dough chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour. This step is essential for firming up the dough, ensuring your espresso shortbread holds its shape while baking.

Total Baking Time

Once you're ready to bake, set aside around 12 to 14 minutes per batch. You'll want to keep a close eye until they turn golden on the bottom. Overall, with preparation and baking combined, you can have your Granny Neal’s Espresso Shortbread ready in about 1.5 hours!

Baking cookies not only fills your kitchen with delightful aromas but also offers a perfect snack to enjoy in the company of friends or family. For some tips on getting the best out of your baking experience, check out The Spruce Eats' cookie baking guide.

By breaking down the time involved, you can manage your baking like a pro and savor the comforting experience of creating something delicious!

Nutritional Facts for Granny Neal’s Espresso Shortbread

Calories

Each delightful piece of Granny Neal’s Espresso Shortbread packs approximately 150 calories. It's an indulgent treat, perfect for a coffee break or special occasion, balancing flavor and energy without going overboard.

Sugar Content

You’ll find about 8 grams of sugar per cookie, primarily coming from the lightly packed brown sugar. While it adds sweetness, enjoy these cookies in moderation to keep your sugar intake in check, especially if you’re mindful of daily limits.

Healthy Fats

In each shortbread cookie, you’ll be getting roughly 10 grams of healthy fats from the walnuts and unsalted butter. These fats can support cardiovascular health when enjoyed as part of a balanced diet, making your Granny Neal’s Espresso Shortbread not just delicious, but also a thoughtful choice for sweet moments.

Feeling inspired to bake? Pair these cookies with a rich cup of coffee for a delightful afternoon pick-me-up! Check out more on the Nutritional Benefits of Nuts here, and explore the world of healthy baking!

FAQs about Granny Neal’s Espresso Shortbread

Can I replace the walnuts with other nuts?

Absolutely! If you're not a fan of walnuts or just want to switch things up, you can try using pecans or hazelnuts in Granny Neal’s Espresso Shortbread. Both options will still deliver a lovely crunch and complement the rich espresso flavor beautifully. Just chop them roughly to ensure a nice texture to the cookies!

How long do the cookies stay fresh?

These delicious Espresso Shortbread cookies can stay fresh for up to a week when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. If you're big on meal prep, consider making a double batch — they make excellent gifts or treats for later!

Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, you can! Freezing the dough is a great way to have homemade cookies ready at a moment's notice. Just wrap the formed log tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to a month. When you’re ready to bake, let it thaw in the fridge and then slice as directed. Your future self will thank you!

For more baking tips, check out resources from King Arthur Baking.

Conclusion on Granny Neal’s Espresso Shortbread

There's something truly special about Granny Neal’s Espresso Shortbread. Each bite is a delightful balance of buttery richness and coffee's warm embrace. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in with a good book, these cookies bridge nostalgia and flavor. Treat yourself to this easy recipe anytime you crave comfort. For more delightful baking inspiration, explore sites like King Arthur Baking for tips and tricks!