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

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of cinnamon sugar cookies and buttery streusel creates a delectable taste that will keep you coming back for more.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These cookies are ideal for coffee breaks, dessert tables, or as a sweet gift for friends and family.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, even novice bakers can whip up these delicious treats quickly.
• Versatile Treat: Serve them warm or at room temperature; they pair beautifully with various beverages, especially coffee or tea.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Coffee Cake Cookies, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure success in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool makes creaming butter and sugars effortless, ensuring a smooth batter for your cookies.
• Baking sheets: Essential for even baking, they prevent sticking when lined with parchment or silicone mats.

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. 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 Cookies

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

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars

Place the cubed butter and both sugars into the bowl of your stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Turn on the mixer to cream the mixture 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 mixed; use a rubber spatula to scrape down any mixture sticking 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

Scoop out portions of dough and roll them into approximately eight large balls (or smaller if preferred). You can get about 22-24 cookies out of this recipe. Place them on prepared baking sheets.

Step 8: Create Indents for Filling

Make an indent in each cookie using your thumb or another similar tool (like a spoon). Dusting it lightly with flour can prevent sticking.

Step 9: Add Streusel Filling & Bake

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

Step 10: Optional Shaping Method

For perfectly circular cookies, immediately after removing from the oven place a circular cookie cutter around one cookie to gently reshape it; this helps smooth out any uneven edges.

Step 11: Cool Cookies

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

Step 12: Drizzle Icing

Whisk together icing ingredients until smooth. Once cookies are cooled completely, drizzle icing over the tops before serving.

Enjoy your delightful Coffee Cake Cookies!

How to Serve Coffee Cake Cookies

Serving Coffee Cake Cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some creative ways to enjoy these delightful treats.

With a Warm Beverage

• Coffee: Pair your cookies with a cup of freshly brewed coffee for a classic combination that brings out the flavors.
• Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea creates a soothing atmosphere and complements the cinnamon notes in the cookies.

As a Dessert Platter

• Variety Plate: Arrange your Coffee Cake Cookies alongside other desserts like brownies and mini muffins for a colorful dessert spread.
• Gift Box: Package them beautifully in a gift box with some homemade fudge or truffles, making it an ideal present for friends.

At Parties or Gatherings

• Dessert Bar: Set up a dessert bar at your next gathering where guests can choose their favorite cookies and toppings.
• Ice Cream Sandwiches: Use the cookies to create ice cream sandwiches. Just add a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream between two cookies for an indulgent treat.

How to Perfect Coffee Cake Cookies

Perfecting your Coffee Cake Cookies take just a few simple adjustments. Here are some tips for success.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix until just combined to keep the cookies soft and chewy, avoiding tough texture.
• Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes before baking to help the cookies maintain their shape.
• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking. Remove them when they are slightly golden at the edges to prevent dryness.
• Customize Toppings: Experiment with different toppings like chopped nuts or chocolate chips added to the streusel for more flavor variety.

Best Side Dishes for Coffee Cake Cookies

When serving Coffee Cake Cookies, consider these delicious side dishes that pair well.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing option that balances the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, tangy contrast that complements the richness of the cookies.
3. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda, which provide a savory note against sweet flavors.
4. Chocolate Fondue: Melted chocolate served with fruits and marshmallows offers an interactive dessert experience.
5. Nut Mix: A selection of roasted nuts adds crunch and saltiness, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
6. Baked Apples: Sweetened baked apples with cinnamon create a warm, comforting side that pairs beautifully with coffee cake cookies.
7. Mini Muffins: Offer assorted mini muffins (like blueberry or lemon) for variety on your dessert table.
8. Whipped Cream: Serve alongside whipped cream as a dip or topping, adding extra creaminess and sweetness to each bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Coffee Cake Cookies, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can affect the outcome. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the streusel chilling: Not refrigerating the streusel can lead to a soggy filling. Always chill it until firm before using.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can make the cookies tough. Mix just until ingredients are combined for a tender texture.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can change cookie texture. Always preheat your oven properly to 400°F for best results.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Using too much flour will dry out cookies. Spoon and level your flour for accurate measurements.
• Neglecting to check cookie doneness: Pulling cookies out too late can result in dryness. Remove them just before they look fully baked.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days.

Freezing Coffee Cake Cookies

• Freeze cookies individually or in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Coffee Cake Cookies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, place cookies on a baking sheet for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat as it can make them tough.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, covering them with a lid for about 2-3 minutes until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

Yes, you can experiment with alternative flours like almond or gluten-free blends, but results may vary in texture.

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

Look for slightly golden edges and set centers; they will continue baking after being removed from the oven.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to my Coffee Cake Cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the dough before baking.

What should I do if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough is sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This will make it easier to handle.

Final Thoughts

These Coffee Cake Cookies offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. With their soft cookie base and rich streusel filling, they are perfect for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to customize them with your favorite mix-ins or toppings; enjoy finding your personal twist on this delicious treat!