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 streusel creates a delightful taste that will satisfy your sweet tooth.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both beginner bakers and seasoned pros.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual snack or a festive treat, these cookies fit right in.
• Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different fillings or toppings to make them your own!
• Impressive Presentation: The icing drizzled on top makes these cookies look as good as they taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking Coffee Cake Cookies, gather the necessary tools for an efficient process.

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: It saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugars together, ensuring a smooth mixture.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls allows you to easily combine ingredients without clutter.
• Baking sheets: These provide even heat distribution for perfect baking results every time.

Ingredients

To create your Coffee Cake Cookies, gather 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 unsalted butter

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 unsalted butter, 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 extract
• 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. Work in the softened butter until small clumps form using your fingers. Refrigerate the mixture while you prepare the cookie dough.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

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

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients for Cookie Dough

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

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars

In the bowl of your stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, place the cubed cold butter along with both types of sugars. 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 everything is well combined. Use a rubber spatula to scrape down any mixture stuck to 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 Cookie Dough Balls

Scoop out portions of dough and roll them into approximately eight large balls (or smaller if preferred). Place them on prepared baking sheets.

Step 8: Create Indents for Filling

Make an indent in each cookie using your thumb or another tool like a spoon handle to create space for the streusel filling.

Step 9: Fill Cookies with Streusel Mix

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

Step 10: Bake Cookies

Bake in preheated oven for about 8-11 minutes or until edges appear set and slightly golden. Remember that they will continue to bake after being removed from heat; aim not to over-bake.

Step 11: Optional Circular Shaping

For perfectly round cookies, immediately after taking them out of the oven, use a larger circular cookie cutter or glass around each cookie to gently spin it for uniformity.

Step 12: Cooling & Icing

Let cookies rest on their sheet for about five minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Once cooled completely whisk together icing ingredients then drizzle over cookies before serving!

How to Serve Coffee Cake Cookies

Coffee cake cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Whether you want a cozy treat with your morning coffee or an elegant dessert for a gathering, here are some creative serving suggestions.

Enjoy with Coffee

• A perfect pairing: These cookies complement a warm cup of coffee, enhancing their cinnamon flavors.

Pair with Tea

• For tea lovers: Serve alongside your favorite herbal or black tea for a delightful afternoon snack.

Create a Dessert Platter

• Impress guests: Arrange these cookies on a dessert platter with other treats for a lovely presentation at any celebration.

Add Ice Cream

• A tasty twist: Top warm cookies with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for an indulgent dessert.

Use as Party Favors

• Sweet gifts: Package them in small boxes or bags to share with friends and family during special occasions.

How to Perfect Coffee Cake Cookies

Perfecting coffee cake cookies is all about the right techniques and ingredients. Here are some helpful tips to ensure they turn out amazing every time.

• Use cold butter: Keeping the butter cold helps create a tender texture in the cookies.

• Chill the dough: Refrigerate the cookie dough before baking to prevent spreading and ensure thicker cookies.

• Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to maintain a soft and fluffy texture in your cookies.

• Check baking times: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. They should be golden around the edges but still soft in the center when finished.

• Sift dry ingredients: Sifting flour and other dry ingredients helps avoid lumps and ensures even mixing.

Best Side Dishes for Coffee Cake Cookies

Serving side dishes that complement coffee cake cookies can enhance your overall experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.

2. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy contrast that pairs well with the cookie’s textures.

3. Cheese Board
   Include a variety of cheeses, nuts, and dried fruits to create an elegant cheese board alongside your cookies.

4. Granola Bars
   Homemade granola bars offer a chewy texture that nicely complements the crunchiness of coffee cake cookies.

5. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries
   The rich flavor of chocolate-covered strawberries provides an indulgent touch to your sweet spread.

6. Nut Mix
   A mix of roasted nuts adds crunch and savory notes that balance out the sweetness of the cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Coffee Cake Cookies, there are some common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are the key mistakes to avoid for perfect cookies every time.

• Incorrect Measurement: Using too much or too little flour can affect the texture. Always spoon and level your flour for accuracy.
• Skipping the Streusel Chill: Not refrigerating the streusel filling can lead to it melting into the cookie. Make sure to chill it until firm.
• Overmixing Dough: Mixing too long after adding dry ingredients can make the cookies tough. Mix just until combined for a tender bite.
• Not Preheating Oven: Failing to preheat your oven can lead to uneven baking. Always allow your oven to reach the desired temperature before baking.
• Ignoring Baking Time: Every oven is different, so don’t rely solely on the timer. Check for golden edges and a set center before pulling them out.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking.

Freezing Coffee Cake Cookies

• Freeze cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• To prevent sticking, place parchment paper between layers.

Reheating Coffee Cake Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5 minutes for a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
• Microwave: Heat individually for about 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up.
• Stovetop: Place in a covered pan over low heat for about 2-3 minutes, turning lightly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Coffee Cake Cookies that might help you.

Can I use different types of flour in Coffee Cake Cookies?

Yes, you can substitute with whole wheat or gluten-free flour, but texture may vary slightly.

How can I customize my Coffee Cake Cookies?

Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits to the dough or streusel filling for extra flavor!

What’s the best way to store leftover Coffee Cake Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

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

Look for slightly golden edges and a set center; they will continue cooking once removed from the oven.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

Yes! Substitute butter with plant-based alternatives and use flax eggs instead of regular eggs.

Final Thoughts

These Coffee Cake Cookies blend two beloved desserts into one delightful treat that’s perfect with coffee. Their versatility allows you to customize flavors with various add-ins. Give this recipe a try and impress your friends and family!