Rich, buttery, and studded with sweet bits of chocolate and crunchy toffee, these Chocolate Chip and Toffee Shortbread Cookies are a perfect twist on the classic holiday treat. With a crumbly, melt-in-your-mouth texture and a sweet-salty balance, they’re simple to prepare yet look elegant on any cookie platter. Ideal for Christmas gifting, cookie exchanges, or enjoying with coffee, these cookies are a make-ahead dream that get better as they sit.
Ingredients
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup toffee bits (such as Heath)
Optional: extra sugar for sprinkling on top
Preparation
Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. This takes about 2–3 minutes with a hand mixer.
Step 2: Add vanilla extract and mix until just combined.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low until a soft dough forms.
Step 4: Fold in mini chocolate chips and toffee bits using a rubber spatula. Make sure they’re evenly distributed.
Step 5: Divide the dough in half and roll each half into a log about 1.5 inches in diameter. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for at least 2 hours or until firm.
Step 6: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Slice chilled dough into 1/4-inch rounds and place on prepared baking sheets, about 1 inch apart.
Step 7: Optional: Sprinkle tops with a bit of granulated sugar before baking for extra sparkle and crunch.
Step 8: Bake for 10–12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Variations
- Substitute white chocolate chips for semi-sweet
- Use dark chocolate chunks for a richer flavor
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder to the dough
- Drizzle with melted chocolate once baked and cooled
- Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts for extra texture
- Use gluten-free flour for a GF version
Cooking Notes
- Don’t overbake; the cookies should be just golden around the edges
- Use high-quality butter for best flavor and texture
- Dough can be frozen for up to 3 months
- Make sure the dough is fully chilled before slicing
- Let cookies fully cool before storing to avoid softening
- Use parchment or silicone mats for even baking
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside hot chocolate or coffee
- Add to a holiday cookie platter with other favorites
- Wrap in cellophane bags for edible holiday gifts
- Serve with vanilla ice cream for a dessert twist
- Pair with salted caramel sauce for dipping
- Stack and tie with ribbon for a festive hostess gift
Tips
- Make dough ahead and freeze in logs for slice-and-bake ease
- Roll dough logs in sanding sugar before chilling for sparkle
- For rounder cookies, reshape the log gently after slicing
- Use a serrated knife for cleaner cuts
- Add 1/4 teaspoon almond extract for a nutty twist
- Store in airtight container at room temp for up to 1 week
Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approx. based on 30 cookies)
Calories: 150
Protein: 1g
Sodium: 40mg
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Sugar: 7g
FAQs
Can I make these without toffee?
- Yes, simply increase chocolate chips or replace with nuts.
Can I freeze the cookies?
- Yes, freeze baked cookies or unbaked dough logs for up to 3 months.
Can I make these gluten-free?
- Yes, use 1:1 gluten-free flour with xanthan gum for best texture.
Why is my dough crumbly?
- If too dry, add 1–2 teaspoons milk to help bring the dough together.
Do I need to chill the dough?
- Yes, chilling is crucial for clean slicing and best texture.
Conclusion
These Chocolate Chip and Toffee Shortbread Cookies combine rich buttery goodness with indulgent pockets of chocolate and the irresistible crunch of toffee. They’re easy to prep, perfect to freeze, and deliver bakery-quality flavor in every bite. Whether you’re gifting them or enjoying with your favorite warm drink, these cookies promise to become a seasonal staple. With simple ingredients and stunning results, you’ll want to bake a double batch every time.