Christmas Walnut Mocha Cookies
Christmas cookies are a deeply rooted tradition in many cultures, but the version with walnuts and mocha flavor has a special charm. This combination is born from the fusion of classic pastry and the taste for coffee that has become popular in many regions. In Latin American countries, these cookies may have different names, such as "coffee and nut cookies" in Mexico or "Christmas cookies with mocha flavor" in Colombia. Their origin dates back to the European influence that arrived on the continent during colonization, adapting recipes with native ingredients such as walnuts and coffee, thus creating a delicious cultural mix that is characteristic of the December holidays.
How to Make Christmas Walnut Mocha Cookies
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure even baking.
Melt 1/2 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips in a double boiler, stirring until a smooth and homogeneous mixture is obtained.
Cool the chocolate mixture to room temperature before incorporating it into the dough.
In a small cup, dissolve the instant coffee in boiling water and set aside for later use.
In a small bowl, combine the wheat flour, baking soda, and salt, mix well, and set aside.
In a large bowl, combine margarine, sugar, brown sugar, and the dissolved coffee, beating until the mixture is creamy and well integrated.
Add the egg and the melted chocolate chips, mixing carefully until fully incorporated.
Gradually add the flour mixture, also incorporating the remaining chocolate chips and the walnuts, mixing until a homogeneous dough is obtained.
Place rounded tablespoons of the dough onto an ungreased cookie sheet, leaving space between each portion.
Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-12 minutes or until the cookies are golden at the edges.