Coffee Cake Cookies

I’ve combined two of my favorite desserts into one and made these dreamy Coffee Cake Cookies. They’re made with a cinnamon sugar cookie, filled with a buttery streusel and a drizzle of powdered sugar icing on top. Enjoy with a cup of warm coffee and get ready to fall in love with your new favorite cookie!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor – The combination of cinnamon, brown sugar, and buttery streusel creates a mouthwatering taste that delights every bite.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – These cookies are great for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply as a treat for yourself.
• Easy to Make – With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up these delicious cookies without any hassle.
• Versatile Treat – Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or as an afternoon snack paired with coffee or tea.
• Customizable – Feel free to add your favorite nuts or dried fruits to the streusel for extra texture and flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Prepare your kitchen with the right tools to make baking easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer – Makes creaming butter and sugar effortless, ensuring a smooth cookie dough.
• Mixing bowls – Essential for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Baking sheets – Provides a sturdy base for baking cookies evenly.
• Rubber spatula – Perfect for scraping down the sides of the bowl to incorporate all ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Streusel Filling

• 1/2 cup all purpose flour
• 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 tsp. cinnamon
• pinch salt
• 5 Tbsp. softened butter, unsalted

For the Cookie Dough

• 1 1/4 cup all purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 3/4 cup cake flour, spooned and leveled
• 1 tsp. cornstarch
• 1 tsp. cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp. baking soda
• 1/2 tsp. baking powder
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 8 Tbsp. cold butter, unsalted, cut into cubes
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract
• 1 large egg
• 1 large egg yolk
• 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter, melted
• 3 Tbsp. heavy cream or milk

For the Icing

• 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 tsp. vanilla
• pinch salt

How to Make Coffee Cake Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Streusel Filling

In a medium-sized bowl combine the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt together. Then work in the butter until small clumps form. (I just use my fingers to work it together). Refrigerate.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. Set aside.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together all-purpose flour, cake flour, cornstarch, cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars

Place the cubed butter and sugars into the bowl of a stand mixer and secure the paddle attachment. Turn the mixer on and cream until smooth, about 1-2 minutes.

Step 5: Add Egg Mixture

Add in the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract; blend until mixed well. Use a rubber spatula to scrape down any mixture sticking to the bowl’s sides.

Step 6: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Gradually add in the dry ingredients about 1/4 cup at a time until fully incorporated into the dough.

Step 7: Shape Cookies

Scoop and roll cookie dough into ~8 large balls (or smaller if preferred — you can get about 22-24 cookies). Place on prepared baking sheets.

Step 8: Create Indents

Make an indent in each cookie using your thumb or another tool like a spoon handle (dunk it in flour to avoid sticking).

Step 9: Fill with Streusel

Spoon ~1 Tbsp. of streusel filling into each cookie indent and bake for ~8-11 minutes or until edges are set and slightly golden.

Step 10: Optional Shaping Technique

If you want perfectly circular cookies: Immediately after removing them from the oven, place a circular cookie cutter around each cookie while gently spinning it to smooth out uneven edges.

Step 11: Cool Cookies

Let cookies rest on the sheet for ~5 minutes then transfer them to a cooling rack.

Step 12: Make Icing

Whisk together icing ingredients; once cooled, drizzle over cookies before enjoying!

How to Serve Coffee Cake Cookies

These delightful Coffee Cake Cookies can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or having a quiet coffee break, here are some serving suggestions that will enhance your experience.

With a Hot Beverage

• Coffee: Pair your cookies with a warm cup of coffee to complement the flavors and create a cozy atmosphere.
• Tea: A soothing herbal or black tea can balance the sweetness of the cookies, making for a delightful afternoon snack.

At a Gathering

• Dessert Table: Serve these cookies at parties or holiday gatherings as part of a dessert buffet. They add a unique touch to classic cookie trays.
• Gift Boxes: Package them in decorative boxes with other baked goods for a sweet gift that friends and family will love.

For Breakfast

• Morning Treat: Enjoy these cookies as an indulgent breakfast option alongside yogurt or fruit for a balanced start to your day.
• Brunch Delight: Serve them at brunch with fresh fruit and whipped cream for an elegant touch.

How to Perfect Coffee Cake Cookies

Achieving the perfect texture and flavor in your Coffee Cake Cookies is essential. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out amazing every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Sift Dry Ingredients: Sifting flour, baking powder, and cinnamon helps incorporate air, leading to lighter cookies.
• Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough before baking enhances the flavors and prevents spreading.
• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake; pull them out just before they look fully done to avoid over-baking.
• Experiment with Flavors: Add nuts or dried fruits to the streusel filling for extra texture and flavor variations.

Best Side Dishes for Coffee Cake Cookies

Coffee Cake Cookies can be paired with various side dishes that complement their sweet flavor. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a nutritious side that pairs well with coffee cake flavors.
3. Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like cream cheese or ricotta alongside crackers for a savory contrast.
4. Nut Mix: A blend of almonds, walnuts, or pecans offers crunchy textures that enhance cookie enjoyment.
5. Chocolate Ganache Dip: Serve small bowls of chocolate ganache on the side for those who love chocolate with their cookies.
6. Homemade Ice Cream: Vanilla or cinnamon ice cream makes for an indulgent pairing, especially on warm days.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially when making Coffee Cake Cookies. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Not measuring flour correctly – Use the spoon-and-level method for accuracy. This prevents dry cookies that lack texture.
• Overmixing the dough – Mix just until combined to keep cookies tender. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
• Skipping the chilling step – Refrigerate the streusel filling and cookie dough. Chilling helps maintain shape during baking.
• Ignoring oven temperature – Always preheat your oven. Using an incorrect temperature can lead to uneven baking.
• Not checking doneness – Keep an eye on cookies towards the end of baking. They should be slightly golden at the edges but still soft in the center.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Layer parchment paper between cookies if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Coffee Cake Cookies

• Freeze in a single layer for up to 3 months before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Coffee Cake Cookies

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5 minutes for a fresh-baked taste.
• Microwave – Heat individually for 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up.
• Stovetop – Use a skillet on low heat, covering with a lid for 2-3 minutes; this keeps them moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Coffee Cake Cookies?

Coffee Cake Cookies combine elements of traditional coffee cake into cookie form, featuring a soft texture and streusel filling.

Can I customize my Coffee Cake Cookies?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits to enhance flavor and texture according to your preference.

How do I make these cookies gluten-free?

Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

How long do Coffee Cake Cookies last?

Properly stored, they last up to 5 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.

What is the best way to serve Coffee Cake Cookies?

Serve them warm with coffee or tea for a delightful pairing that enhances their flavors.

Final Thoughts

These Coffee Cake Cookies beautifully blend flavors and textures, making them perfect for any occasion. Their versatility allows you to customize them with your favorite mix-ins. Don’t hesitate to try this easy recipe that will surely become a favorite among friends and family!