Can I use brewed coffee or espresso instead?
I have tried this recipe using a freshly brewed shot of espresso in place of the dissolved instant coffee and I wasn't thrilled with the results. There was only a small hint of coffee flavor, and the cookies came out puffier and less chewy. The dough was runnier because the espresso shot is not as viscous as the dissolved instant coffee. All that to say, for best results I recommend sticking with either instant coffee or instant espresso.