Instructions

1. We tried using brewed coffee in this recipe but it just didn't give the cookies enough coffee flavor. After much trial and error, we discovered that the solution was to use a Dark Roast Instant Coffee dissolved in vanilla.  Pour the vanilla you will need for the recipe into a small bowl and then add the instant coffee.  We used Starbucks French Roast Instant which comes in pre-measured packets.  If you can't find that, you can substitute 2 tablespoons of any other Dark Roast instant coffee.
2. Stir until the instant coffee has dissolved in the vanilla.  Allow the vanilla and coffee to steep for at least 15 minutes.
3. Soften your butter to room temperature and then add it to the mixing bowl with the granulated sugar and the brown sugar.  We used Dark Brown Sugar, we think it adds an additional depth of flavor that is perfect for these Coffee flavored cookies. Cream the butter and sugars for 3 minutes.
4. Add the eggs and the vanilla/coffee mixture and mix for an additional 3 minutes.
5. Add the baking soda and the flour and mix just until the flour is combined with the cookie dough.
6. Add the regular and mini Chocolate Chips mix until combined.
7. If you want to REALLY enhance the coffee flavor in these cookies, chill the cookie dough overnight before you bake the cookies.  This step is optional, but if you can wait it really allows the coffee flavor to meld with the cookie dough.
8. If you refrigerated the cookie dough overnight, allow it to come back to room temperature before baking.  Then use a cookie scooper and place the cookie dough on a cookie sheet covered with parchment paper.
9. Bake the cookies in an oven preheated to 350 degrees for 10-11 minutes (or until the edges of the cookies are golden brown.) Allow the cookies to completely cool before adding the icing.
10. While the cookies are cooling, make the Coffee Icing.  Dissolve another packet (or 2 tablespoons) of Dark Roast Instant Coffee in 1/4 cup of milk.
11. Stir until the coffee crystals have dissolved. Set the coffee milk side.
12. In a second bowl, add the powdered sugar and melted butter. Stir with a spoon until mixed. It will still seem dry.
13. Add the Coffee Milk to the icing bowl, one spoonful at a time, and stir until you have the icing at the desired consistency.
14. Drizzle the Coffee Icing over the cooled cookies.  Allow the icing to set up and then these yummy cookies are ready to serve!