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. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are sure to impress your family and friends. Serve them fresh with a cup of warm coffee, and get ready to fall in love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of cinnamon sugar and buttery streusel creates a delightful taste that will have everyone coming back for more.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up these cookies in no time!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or an afternoon treat, these cookies suit any celebration or casual snack.
• Versatile Serving Sizes: Adjust the size of the cookies based on your preference; you can make large or small cookies easily.
• Impressive Presentation: The drizzle of icing and the streusel filling make these cookies look as good as they taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth, gather the following tools before starting your recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugars to achieve a fluffy texture.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls allows you to keep dry ingredients separate from wet ones, ensuring a better mix.
• Baking sheets: They provide an even surface for baking, helping your cookies bake uniformly.

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 using your fingers. Refrigerate while preparing the dough.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats and set them aside.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cake flour, cornstarch, cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside for later use.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars

Place the cubed butter and sugars into the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Mix on medium speed until smooth (about 1–2 minutes).

Step 5: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add in the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Blend until fully mixed together; scrape down sides if necessary.

Step 6: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Gradually add in the dry ingredients about ¼ cup at a time until they are fully incorporated into the dough.

Step 7: Form Cookie Balls

Scoop out portions of cookie dough (about ~8 large balls) or smaller if desired; you can yield around 22–24 cookies in total.

Step 8: Create Indents

Make an indent in each cookie using your thumb or a similar object like a wooden juicer dipped in flour to prevent sticking.

Step 9: Fill with Streusel

Spoon approximately 1 tablespoon of streusel filling into each cookie’s indent before placing them in the oven.

Step 10: Bake Cookies

Bake for about 8–11 minutes or until edges appear set and slightly golden; remove them just before they seem done to prevent over-baking.

Step 11: Optional Shaping

Immediately after removing from oven, use a larger circular cutter to gently spin around each cookie for perfect shape if desired.

Step 12: Cool Down

Let cookies rest on their sheet for about five minutes before transferring them onto a cooling rack.

Step 13: Drizzle Icing

Whisk together icing ingredients; once cookies are cooled completely, drizzle icing over their tops for that finishing touch!

How to Serve Coffee Cake Cookies

Coffee cake cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them solo, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

With a Hot Beverage

• Coffee: Pair these cookies with a warm cup of coffee for the perfect blend of flavors.
• Tea: A nice herbal or chai tea complements the cinnamon notes beautifully.
• Hot Chocolate: For a sweet indulgence, serve alongside your favorite hot chocolate.

As a Dessert Platter

• Dessert Board: Include an assortment of fruits, cheeses, and chocolates to create a stunning dessert board featuring coffee cake cookies.
• Ice Cream Sandwiches: Use two cookies to sandwich a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.

At Celebrations

• Holiday Parties: These cookies make an excellent addition to your holiday dessert spread.
• Bake Sales: Perfect for bake sales, their unique flavor is sure to attract buyers.

How to Perfect Coffee Cake Cookies

To achieve the ultimate coffee cake cookies, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance both flavor and texture for your baking adventure.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always check the freshness of your baking powder and spices; this ensures better rise and flavor.
• Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking helps prevent spreading and keeps them thick.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined when adding dry ingredients to maintain soft, tender cookies.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature for even baking.
• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake; removing them when edges are just set prevents dryness.

Best Side Dishes for Coffee Cake Cookies

Coffee cake cookies can be paired with several delightful side dishes that complement their flavors. Here’s a list of perfect side dishes to consider:

1. Fresh Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add a fresh and tangy contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a creamy, crunchy side that balances well with the cookie’s texture.
3. Cheese Board: A selection of mild cheeses pairs nicely with the sweetness and spice of coffee cake cookies.
4. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the cookies for an extra layer of decadence.
5. Whipped Cream: A light dollop of whipped cream adds creaminess that enhances each bite.
6. Nut Mix: A crunchy mix of almonds and walnuts provides a savory contrast that pairs perfectly with sweet treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Coffee Cake Cookies can be delightful, but a few common mistakes can lead to disappointment. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the chilling step: If you don’t refrigerate the streusel filling, it may not hold its shape when baked. Always let it chill until firm.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Using too much flour can lead to dry cookies. Spoon and level your flour for the best results.
• Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can make cookies tough. Mix just until ingredients are combined for a tender texture.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Each oven is different; always check your cookies a few minutes before the recommended baking time to prevent over-baking.
• Using stale ingredients: Old baking soda or powder won’t provide the necessary lift. Always check expiration dates for freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Freezing Coffee Cake Cookies

• Freeze cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Layer parchment paper between cookies to prevent sticking.

Reheating Coffee Cake Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 5-10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individually on low power in short bursts of 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat with a lid for about 3-5 minutes, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Coffee Cake Cookies that might help you:

Can I use gluten-free flour for Coffee Cake Cookies?

Yes, using a gluten-free blend can work well. Ensure it’s suitable for baking.

How do I make these Coffee Cake Cookies more flavorful?

You can add nuts or chocolate chips to the dough for extra flavor and texture.

What is the best way to serve Coffee Cake Cookies?

Serve them warm with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat.

How long do Coffee Cake Cookies last?

These cookies last about 5 days at room temperature and up to 3 months in the freezer.

Can I customize the icing on my Coffee Cake Cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to add flavors like almond or lemon zest for variety.

Final Thoughts

These Coffee Cake Cookies combine two beloved treats into one delectable dessert. Their soft texture and sweet streusel filling make them irresistible. Plus, you can easily customize them with your favorite add-ins! Try this recipe today and enjoy a new twist on classic flavors!