Orient Express Cookie Squares
Orient Express Cookie Squares are rich, chocolatey treats with almonds and coffee flavors, perfect for coffee lovers or as a decadent snack for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine white sugar, brown sugar, and flour in a food processor.
- Add coffee, vanilla, almond extract, and margarine to the mixture.
- Mix until well blended.
- Stir in chocolate chips and chopped almonds.
- Spread dough on an ungreased jelly roll pan, pressing with fingers if necessary.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar. You can also substitute the margarine with coconut oil for a dairy-free option. If you prefer a different nut, walnuts or pecans work well in this recipe. Make sure to chop the nuts finely for even distribution throughout the cookie squares.
Serving Suggestions
These cookie squares are perfect for dessert or as a sweet snack. Serve them alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat. They also pair beautifully with Granny'S Grapefruit And Ginger Salad for a refreshing contrast. Consider dusting with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookie squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to two weeks. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes until just warmed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orient Express Cookie Squares contains roughly 497 calories, with 5g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 26g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular coffee instead of instant coffee?
While instant coffee is recommended for this recipe, you can use brewed coffee if you adjust the liquid content slightly. Keep in mind that the texture may change, so reduce the margarine or flour to compensate for the added liquid.
What can I use instead of chocolate chips?
If you don’t have chocolate chips, you can substitute them with chopped chocolate bars or even dried fruit for a different flavor profile. Dark chocolate or white chocolate can also be great alternatives, catering to different taste preferences.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can make these cookie squares gluten-free by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Be sure to check that your other ingredients, like baking powder or vanilla, are also gluten-free to ensure the entire recipe is suitable.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).