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

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cinnamon, brown sugar, and buttery streusel creates an irresistible taste that will delight your taste buds.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps ensure that even novice bakers can whip up these treats without hassle.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy evening at home or a festive gathering.
• Visually Appealing: The drizzled icing adds a beautiful finish that makes these cookies look as good as they taste.
• Perfect Pairing: Best enjoyed with your favorite warm beverage, enhancing the overall experience.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, gather the necessary tools to make your coffee cake cookies perfectly!

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Saves time and effort by thoroughly mixing ingredients quickly.
• Baking sheets: Provides a flat surface for even baking and easy cookie transfer.
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients

To create these delightful Coffee Cake Cookies, you will need the following 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 until needed.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

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

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients for Cookie Dough

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

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars

Place the cubed cold butter along with both sugars into the bowl of your stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Mix on medium speed until smooth for 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 mixed well. Use a rubber spatula to scrape down any mixture stuck on the sides of the bowl.

Step 6: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Gradually add in the dry ingredient mixture about 1/4 cup at a time while mixing until fully incorporated.

Step 7: Shape Cookies

Scoop and roll the cookie dough into approximately eight large balls (or smaller if you prefer). Place them on prepared baking sheets.

Step 8: Create Indents for Filling

Make an indent in each cookie using your thumb or another utensil like the end of a spoon or spatula dusted lightly with flour.

Step 9: Fill Cookies with Streusel

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

Step 10: Bake Cookies

Bake for approximately 8-11 minutes or until edges appear set and slightly golden. Remove them just before they are fully baked to avoid dryness.

Step 11: Optional Shaping Technique

For perfectly circular cookies, immediately after taking them out of the oven, use a circular cookie cutter or glass larger than each cookie to gently swirl around them for an even shape.

Step 12: Cool Down

Let cookies rest on their baking sheet for around five minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 13: Drizzle Icing

Whisk together icing ingredients until smooth. Once cookies are cooled down completely, drizzle icing over their tops as desired before serving!

How to Serve Coffee Cake Cookies

These delightful Coffee Cake Cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet afternoon treat, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.

Pair with Coffee

• Enjoy these cookies with a hot cup of coffee. The flavors complement each other beautifully and enhance the overall experience.

Add Ice Cream

• Serve warm cookies with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream. The creamy texture balances the cookie’s buttery streusel filling.

Create a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a platter alongside fresh fruit and nuts for a charming dessert spread that appeals to various tastes.

Serve with Milk

• A classic pairing: enjoy your cookies with a tall glass of cold milk. It’s a nostalgic treat that never fails.

Use as Toppings

• Crumble these cookies over yogurt or oatmeal for added flavor and texture in your breakfast or snack.

How to Perfect Coffee Cake Cookies

Making perfect Coffee Cake Cookies is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you achieve cookie perfection.

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough for at least 30 minutes helps maintain their shape while baking.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially leavening agents like baking soda and powder, are fresh for optimal rise.
• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon flour into measuring cups rather than scooping directly to avoid dense cookies.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined when adding dry ingredients to keep the cookies tender.
• Bake in Batches: Bake one sheet at a time to ensure even cooking and prevent overcrowding in the oven.

Best Side Dishes for Coffee Cake Cookies

Coffee Cake Cookies can be enjoyed alongside various dishes that enhance their flavor profile. Here are some delightful options.

1. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the richness of the cookies.

2. Cheese Platter
   Include mild cheeses such as brie or goat cheese for an elegant touch that pairs well with sweet flavors.

3. Chocolate Fondue
   Provide melted chocolate for dipping, creating an indulgent treat that complements the cinnamon notes in the cookies.

4. Nut Mix
   A savory nut mix provides crunch and contrasts nicely against the soft texture of the cookies.

5. Tea Selection
   Offer a variety of herbal teas, such as chamomile or chai, for a cozy pairing that enhances relaxation during snack time.

6. Mini Muffins
   Serve bite-sized muffins like blueberry or banana alongside for an appealing assortment that pairs well with coffee cake flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Coffee Cake Cookies can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch for.

• Boldly skip the chilling step: Not refrigerating the streusel filling before use can lead to it melting into the cookies instead of staying intact. Make sure to chill it for the right texture.

• Boldly overlook your oven temperature: Baking at an incorrect temperature can yield cookies that are either undercooked or burnt. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if necessary.

• Boldly ignore the flour measurement: Using too much or too little flour can change the cookie’s consistency. Always spoon and level your flour for accurate measurement.

• Boldly forget to check for doneness: Leaving cookies in the oven too long can result in dryness. Keep an eye on them and remove them just as they start to turn golden around the edges.

• Boldly skip the cooling phase: Transferring cookies too soon from the baking sheet can cause them to break apart. Allow them to cool on the sheet briefly before moving them.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Coffee Cake Cookies in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Coffee Cake Cookies

• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container; they will stay fresh for up to 3 months.

Reheating Coffee Cake Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place cookies on a baking sheet and warm for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individually for about 10-15 seconds, being careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, covering with a lid to keep moisture in.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Coffee Cake Cookies that might help you enjoy this recipe even more.

Can I customize my Coffee Cake Cookies?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit to enhance their flavor and texture.

How do I ensure my Coffee Cake Cookies stay soft?

Make sure not to overbake them and store them properly after they cool. Keeping them in an airtight container helps maintain their softness.

What is the best way to serve Coffee Cake Cookies?

These cookies pair wonderfully with coffee or tea. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best experience.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that works well for baking.

How do I know when my Coffee Cake Cookies are done?

Look for slightly golden edges and set centers. The cookies will continue baking slightly after removing them from the oven.

Final Thoughts

Coffee Cake Cookies are a delightful fusion of flavors that are perfect for any occasion. With their soft texture and sweet streusel filling, they are sure to impress friends and family alike. Don’t hesitate to customize these cookies with your favorite additions or toppings—let your creativity shine!