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 Combination: The blend of cinnamon, brown sugar, and buttery streusel makes these cookies irresistible.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll whip these up in no time.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy afternoon snack or a festive dessert table.
• Impressive Presentation: The icing drizzle adds an elegant touch that will wow your friends and family.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: Enjoy the delightful chewiness that comes from the unique cookie dough.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect batch of Coffee Cake Cookies, you’ll need just a few essential tools. These will help streamline your baking process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone mats
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugars effortless, ensuring a smooth batter.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for the perfect texture and flavor.
• Mixing bowls: Having several sizes allows for efficient mixing without mess.
• Baking sheets: Ensure even baking and easy transfer of cookies from oven to cooling rack.

Ingredients

To make these delicious 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 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

For the Icing

• 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter, melted
• 3 Tbsp. heavy cream or milk
• 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 (200°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. Set aside.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars

Place cubed butter and sugars into the bowl of a stand mixer with the paddle attachment secured. Turn on the mixer and cream until smooth for 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 that sticks to the sides of the bowl.

Step 6: Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Step 7: Shape Cookie Dough

Scoop out cookie dough into approximately eight large balls (or smaller if preferred; you can get about 22-24 cookies). Place them on prepared baking sheets.

Step 8: Create Indents

Make an indent in each cookie using your thumb or another tool like the end of a spoon or spatula (I used a wooden juicer dipped in flour to prevent sticking).

Step 9: Fill Cookies

Spoon about 1 tablespoon of streusel filling into each cookie’s indent. Bake for approximately 8-11 minutes or until edges appear set and slightly golden.

Step 10: Optional Shaping

Immediately after removing cookies from the oven, place a circular cookie cutter around one cookie (it should be larger than the cookie) and give it a spin to smooth out any uneven edges.

Step 11: Cool Cookies

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

Step 12: Drizzle Icing

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

How to Serve Coffee Cake Cookies

These delightful Coffee Cake Cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re indulging on your own or sharing with friends, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With a Cup of Coffee

• Pair these cookies with a hot cup of coffee for the ultimate cozy treat. The rich flavors complement each other beautifully.

Afternoon Tea Delight

• Serve alongside a selection of teas during an afternoon gathering. The warm spices in the cookies will elevate your tea experience.

Dessert Platter

• Arrange them on a dessert platter with other baked goods like brownies and muffins for a sweet spread at parties or gatherings.

Breakfast Treat

• Enjoy them as a sweet breakfast option. They’re easy to grab and go, making mornings more delicious!

Gift Them

• Package these cookies in a decorative box or tin to give as thoughtful gifts to friends and family during holidays or special occasions.

How to Perfect Coffee Cake Cookies

Perfecting your Coffee Cake Cookies is simple with just a few tips. Follow these suggestions for the best results.

• Use Cold Butter: Ensure your butter is cold when making the streusel. This helps create a crumbly texture that contrasts nicely with the soft cookie dough.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
• Chill the Dough: Refrigerate your dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies maintain their shape and enhances the flavors.
• Check Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake, pulling them out just before they’re golden for soft centers.
• Experiment with Mix-ins: Add chocolate chips or nuts into the dough for added texture and flavor variations.
• Store Properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Coffee Cake Cookies

Coffee Cake Cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes. 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, granola, and berries for a creamy, crunchy contrast that complements the cookie’s texture.

3. Nutty Granola Bars
   These provide an earthy crunch that pairs well with the soft, sweet cookies.

4. Cheese Plate
   Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda alongside crackers for a sophisticated touch.

5. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries
   The rich chocolate enhances the flavors of the coffee cake cookies while adding elegance to your dessert table.

6. Homemade Ice Cream
   A scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream makes for a delightful pairing that adds creaminess to each bite.

7. Cinnamon Spiced Nuts
   Roasted nuts with cinnamon bring an extra crunch and spice that harmonizes with the cookie’s flavor profile.

8. Herbal Tea Selection
   Offering various herbal teas can provide soothing options to enjoy alongside your cookies, enhancing their warm spices.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Coffee Cake Cookies, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them:

• Skipping the Streusel Filling: The streusel adds flavor and texture. Don’t skip it; ensure you prepare it ahead of time and keep it chilled until ready to use.

• Not Measuring Flour Correctly: Using too much flour can dry out the cookies. Always spoon and level your flour for accurate measurements.

• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing the dough too much can make cookies tough. Mix until just combined to keep them soft and chewy.

• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can affect texture. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer for accuracy.

• Baking Too Long: Overbaking leads to dry cookies. Keep an eye on them, pulling them out just before they look done, as they will continue to cook on the baking sheet.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Coffee Cake Cookies

• Place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just ensure they are well sealed to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Coffee Cake Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds for a soft treat.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Coffee Cake Cookies that might help you:

How do I make my Coffee Cake Cookies more flavorful?

Adding extra spices like nutmeg or vanilla extract can enhance flavor. Experiment with different combinations!

Can I substitute ingredients in this Coffee Cake Cookies recipe?

Yes! You can swap all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version.

What are some good toppings for Coffee Cake Cookies?

Consider adding nuts, chocolate chips, or additional icing on top for extra texture and sweetness.

How do I store my leftover Coffee Cake Cookies?

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

Final Thoughts

Coffee Cake Cookies combine delightful flavors and textures that make them irresistible. This versatile recipe allows you to customize it with various fillings or toppings. Give it a try, and enjoy these sweet treats with your favorite beverage!