Introduction to Coffee Cake Cookies
Why Coffee Cake Cookies Might Be Your New Favorite Treat
If you’re a fan of both buttery coffee cake and soft, chewy cookies, then coffee cake cookies are about to become your ultimate guilty pleasure! Imagine biting into a warm cookie that perfectly blends the rich flavors of cinnamon and brown sugar, complete with a delicious streusel filling. These creative cookies pack all the comforting flavors you love in a coffee cake, but with the added portability of a cookie—ideal for on-the-go snacking or cozy evenings at home.
The real magic lies in their versatility. Whether enjoyed as a sweet breakfast treat, a midday snack, or a delightful dessert paired with your favorite hot beverage, coffee cake cookies can fit any occasion. A drizzle of powdered sugar icing provides that final touch of sweetness, making each bite irresistible.
Plus, you can easily spruce up the recipe by adding extras like chopped nuts or a sprinkle of coconut to the streusel. The possibilities are endless! So grab your mixing bowl and get ready to create a batch of these dreamy cookies that will surely impress friends and family alike. Your mornings will never be the same again!
Ingredients for Coffee Cake Cookies
Creating the perfect coffee cake cookies starts with gathering the right ingredients. Let's break them down into three key components: the streusel, the cookie dough, and the icing.
Required Ingredients for the Streusel
To achieve that delicious, crumbly texture that every great coffee cake needs, you’ll need:
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ⅓ cup brown sugar, packed for extra moisture
- 2 tsp. cinnamon for that warm flavor
- Pinch of salt to balance the sweetness
- 5 Tbsp. unsalted butter, softened to create perfect clumps
Required Ingredients for the Cookie Dough
These ingredients will form the base of your cookies - soft yet slightly chewy:
- 1 ¼ cup all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
- ¾ cup cake flour for a lighter texture
- 1 tsp. cornstarch to enhance the softness
- 1 tsp. cinnamon to tie in the flavors from the streusel
- ½ tsp. baking soda and ½ tsp. baking powder to help them rise
- ½ tsp. salt to round out the flavors
- 8 Tbsp. cold unsalted butter, cubed to ensure a tender cookie
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- ¼ cup granulated sugar for sweetness
- 1 tsp. vanilla extract to deepen the flavor
- 1 large egg and 1 large egg yolk for richness
Required Ingredients for the Icing
To top off your coffee cake cookies with a sweet finish, you will need:
- 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter, melted for smoothness
- 3 Tbsp. heavy cream or milk for the right consistency
- 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted to avoid lumps
- 1 tsp. vanilla for that classic taste
- Pinch of salt to bring it all together
With these ingredients in hand, you're on your way to creating mouthwatering coffee cake cookies that are sure to impress. So grab your mixing bowl and get ready to indulge! If you want to enhance the texture further, consider adding shredded coconut or finely chopped nuts to the streusel. Check out this guide on baking essentials to make sure your pantry is stocked up!
Preparing Coffee Cake Cookies
Making coffee cake cookies is a delightful experience that brings together the warm, comforting flavors of coffee cake in cookie form. Follow these steps to create your own batch of rich, cinnamon-laden treats that are perfect for pairing with your favorite cup of java.
Prepare the streusel filling
The streusel is where the magic begins! In a medium bowl, combine ½ cup of all-purpose flour, ⅓ cup of packed brown sugar, 2 teaspoons of cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. The mixture should have a nice blend of sweet and spice. With your fingertips, work in 5 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter until small clumps form. This buttery mixture will be the heart of your cookies, so don’t skimp on this step. Once combined, pop the streusel into the refrigerator while you prep the cookie dough.
Preheat the oven and prepare baking sheets
Preheat your oven to 400°F. While the oven warms up, it’s time to line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This ensures your coffee cake cookies come out easily and don’t stick.
Combine the dry ingredients for the cookie dough
In a large bowl, whisk together 1 ¼ cups of all-purpose flour, ¾ cup of cake flour, 1 teaspoon of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Mixing these dry ingredients well at this stage will help ensure that your cookies have a consistent texture.
Cream the butter and sugars
Now, it’s time to bring the flavors together! In the bowl of a stand mixer, add 8 tablespoons of cold, cubed unsalted butter along with ½ cup of packed brown sugar and ¼ cup of granulated sugar. Beat it all together on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy—about 1-2 minutes.
Mix in the eggs and vanilla
Once your butter and sugars are airy, add in 1 large egg, 1 egg yolk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until everything is just combined. Use a rubber spatula to scrape down the bowl to ensure you don’t miss any little pockets of sweetness clinging to the sides.
Incorporate the dry ingredients with the wet
Take your bowl of dry ingredients and gradually mix it into the wet ingredients, about ¼ cup at a time. Be careful not to overmix. You want a smooth dough that’s just combined.
Shape and prepare cookies for baking
Scoop and roll the dough into approximately 8 large balls—or smaller if you prefer! Arrange the dough on your prepared baking sheets, leaving space in between each.
Add the streusel and bake
Make an indent in the center of each cookie. A simple thumbprint works wonders here! Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the chilled streusel into that indent. Bake your cookies for 8-11 minutes, or until the edges are set and slightly golden. Remember, they will continue to firm up as they cool outside the oven.
Cool and drizzle icing over cookies
After pulling them from the oven, let your coffee cake cookies rest on the sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Once they’re completely cool, whisk together 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter, 3 tablespoons of heavy cream, 1 cup of sifted powdered sugar, and a hint of vanilla to create the icing. Drizzle it generously over your cookies and get ready to enjoy this coffee-infused treat!
These coffee cake cookies not only taste fantastic but also fill your kitchen with a delightful aroma. Pair them with your favorite coffee for the ultimate treat that charms both friends and family alike!
Variations on Coffee Cake Cookies
Gluten-free coffee cake cookies
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option that doesn’t skimp on flavor, these coffee cake cookies can easily be adapted! Swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend of your choice. Just make sure to use a blend that contains xanthan gum for the best texture. These cookies will still pack that delightful cinnamon and streusel punch while accommodating those with gluten sensitivities.
Nutty coffee cake cookies with added pecans
For a wholesome twist, try adding chopped pecans to the cookie dough or streusel topping. It elevates the flavor and adds a nutty crunch that pairs beautifully with the coffee cake cookie's sweetness. Just fold in about a half-cup of finely chopped pecans, and you've got yourself a delightful variation that makes each bite even more satisfying. Whether you enjoy them with your morning coffee or as an afternoon treat, these variations are sure to impress!
For more on gluten-free baking, check out King Arthur Baking and for suggestions on how to store nuts, visit The Nutty Gourmet.
Cooking Notes for Coffee Cake Cookies
Tips for Perfecting the Streusel
Creating the perfect streusel is all about technique! For a crumbly texture, make sure to use cold butter and work it into the dry ingredients gently with your fingers. Keep an eye on the size of the clumps; you want a mix of larger and smaller bits for added texture. For an extra flavor kick, consider adding finely chopped nuts or shredded coconut. If you're curious, check out The Kitchn's streusel guide for more tips.
Storing Cookies for Freshness
To keep your coffee cake cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to enjoy them longer, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Just remember to let them thaw at room temperature before indulging! Proper storage will ensure you can savor these delightful cookies whenever the craving strikes.
Serving Suggestions for Coffee Cake Cookies
Best Beverages to Enjoy with Coffee Cake Cookies
Pair your coffee cake cookies with a variety of beverages to enhance their delightful flavors. A rich, velvety cup of cold brew coffee complements the buttery streusel perfectly, while a spiced chai latte adds warmth and comfort. If you're in the mood for something lighter, try a strawberry-infused iced tea for a refreshing contrast. For those cozy evenings, a cup of hot chocolate can be a delightful treat. Each sip will elevate your cookie experience, making it a sweet moment to savor!
Creative Ways to Present Cookies for Sharing
Sharing your coffee cake cookies can be a charming experience. Consider baking a batch and arranging them in a pretty gift box lined with parchment paper for an inviting touch. You can also display them on a rustic wooden platter or tiered cake stand for a lovely centerpiece during gatherings. For added flair, attach a simple card with your favorite serving suggestions or a personal note. Your friends and family will appreciate the effort, and you’ll create memorable moments around a shared love for these scrumptious cookies!
For more fun serving ideas, check out this guide on cookie presentation for inspiration!
Time Details for Coffee Cake Cookies
Preparation Time
In just 15 minutes, you can whip up the dough for these delightful coffee cake cookies. This phase involves gathering your ingredients and making the buttery streusel that brings these cookies to life.
Baking Time
With a quick 10 minutes in the oven, your cookies will transform into golden circles of deliciousness. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t over-bake!
Total Time
All in all, you’ll need about 25 minutes from start to finish to create these decadent coffee cake cookies. Perfect for last-minute dessert cravings or a cozy afternoon snack.
For more tips and tricks on baking cookies, check out this Ultimate Cookie Guide. Enjoy every bite!
Nutritional information for Coffee Cake Cookies
Calories per cookie
Each delightful coffee cake cookie contains approximately 555 calories. While they’re a treat meant for special moments, knowing your intake can help balance your indulgences with healthier choices throughout the day.
Key nutrients to consider
Aside from the delicious taste, these cookies provide some essential nutrients. With 6g of protein and 2g of fiber, they can offer a modest boost. Packed with sugar (44g), enjoy them in moderation—a perfect complement with a warm beverage. For a deeper dive into nutritious baking, check out resources like the USDA FoodData Central for reliable information.
Feeling curious? What unique twist would you add to make these coffee cake cookies your own?
FAQs about Coffee Cake Cookies
Can I make the streusel in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the streusel up to three days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This not only saves you time but also enhances the flavors since letting it sit allows the cinnamon and brown sugar to meld beautifully.
What is the best way to store these cookies?
To keep your coffee cake cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to enjoy them later, freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to let them cool completely before freezing, and they’ll be ready for a warmed-up treat whenever you crave them!
Can I customize the flavors in these cookies?
Definitely! The great thing about coffee cake cookies is their versatility. You can swap in different spices, add chopped nuts for crunch, or even mix in some chocolate chips or dried fruits for a twist. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative! For inspiration, check out this link to explore more flavor combinations.
Conclusion on Coffee Cake Cookies
Final thoughts on your new go-to dessert
These coffee cake cookies are truly a delightful combination that will impress friends and family alike. With their soft texture and sweet, cinnamon-infused flavor, they make for a perfect dessert or snack any time of day. Grab a warm cup of coffee and indulge in this easy-to-make treat!
Coffee Cake Cookies
Equipment
- stand mixer
- baking sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
- Medium-sized bowl
- rubber spatula
Ingredients
Streusel
- ½ cup all purpose flour
- ⅓ cup brown sugar packed
- 2 tsp. cinnamon
- pinch salt
- 5 Tbsp. unsalted butter softened
Cookie Dough
- 1 ¼ cup all purpose flour spooned and leveled
- ¾ cup cake flour spooned and leveled
- 1 tsp. cornstarch
- 1 tsp. cinnamon
- ½ tsp. baking soda
- ½ tsp. baking powder
- ½ tsp. salt
- 8 Tbsp. cold unsalted butter cut into cubes
- ½ cup brown sugar packed
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp. vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1 large egg yolk
Icing
- 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter melted
- 3 Tbsp. heavy cream or milk
- 1 cup powdered sugar sifted
- 1 tsp. vanilla
- pinch salt
Instructions
Preparation
- 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. Refrigerate.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. Set aside.
- Combine the dry ingredients in a large bowl: all purpose flour, cake flour, corn starch, cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder and salt. Set aside.
- 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.
- Add in the egg, egg yolk and vanilla extract and blend until mixed. Use a rubber spatula to knock off mixture if any is sticking to the sides of the bowl and mix again.
- Gradually add in the dry ingredients, about ¼ cup at a time. Mix until incorporated.
- 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.
- Make an indent in each cookie, using your thumb or the end of a spoon/spatula or something similar.
- Spoon ~1 Tbsp. of the streusel filling in each cookie and bake for ~8-11 minutes, or until edges appear set and are slightly golden.
- *Optional step to get cookies perfectly circular: Immediately after the cookies come out of the oven, place a circular cookie cutter or a circular drinking glass around one of the cookies and give the cookies a spin.
- Let cookies rest on cookie sheet for ~5 minutes then transfer to a cooling rack.
- Whisk together the ingredients for the icing and once the cookies are cooled, drizzle icing over the tops and enjoy!
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