Coffee Cake Cookies: Perfect Sweet Treat Recipe

I remember the first time I smelled coffee cake cookies baking in the oven; it was like a warm hug on a cold day. Growing up, my grandmother’s kitchen was always filled with the comforting aroma of freshly baked treats, and coffee cake cookies quickly became a family favorite. The blend of cinnamon and brown sugar creates a flavor that feels both nostalgic and indulgent.

These cookies are the perfect combination of crunchy and soft, with a delightful streusel filling that adds a satisfying crumble to every bite. As I experimented with the recipe, I discovered that the secret to the best coffee cake cookies lies in the balance of ingredients and technique. Each time I bake them, I’m transported back to those cherished moments spent baking with my grandmother.

Today, I’m excited to share this coffee cake cookie recipe with you, hoping it brings as much joy to your kitchen as it does to mine. Whether you’re gathering around the table with family or simply enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of coffee, these cookies are sure to make any occasion special. Let’s dive into the delightful world of coffee cake cookies and create something truly magical together.

Coffee Cake Cookies

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• Author: Emma
• Total Time: 60 minutes
• Yield: 6–8 servings 1x

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Description

Discover how to make delicious Coffee Cake Cookies with our easy-to-follow recipe, perfect for any occasion. Learn tips for the best texture and flavor in every bite!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1/2 cup (120 ml) all purpose flour
• 1/3 cup (80 ml) brown sugar, packed
• 2 tsp (10 ml). cinnamon
• Pinch salt
• 5 Tbsp (75 ml). softened butter, unsalted
• 1 1/4 cup (300 ml) all purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 3/4 cup (180 ml) cake flour, spooned and leveled
• 1 tsp (5 ml). cornstarch
• 1 tsp (5 ml). cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp (3 ml). baking soda
• 1/2 tsp (3 ml). baking powder
• 1/2 tsp (3 ml). salt
• 8 Tbsp (120 ml). cold butter, unsalted, cut into cubes
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) granulated sugar
• 1 tsp (5 ml). vanilla extract
• 1 large egg
• 1 large egg yolk
• 2 Tbsp (30 ml). unsalted butter, melted
• 3 Tbsp (45 ml). heavy cream or milk
• 1 cup (240 ml) powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 tsp (5 ml). vanilla
• Pinch salt

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Instructions

1. Create the streusel filling: Mix the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt in a medium bowl. Incorporate the butter until the mixture forms small clusters. I use my fingers for this task. Chill in the fridge.
2. Set your oven to 400°F. Cover two baking trays with parchment paper or silicone mats and put them aside.
3. In a large container, blend the dry components: both flours, cornstarch, cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Put this mixture aside.
4. Put the cubed butter and sugars in a stand mixer bowl. Attach the paddle and mix until the texture is smooth, around 1-2 minutes.
5. Add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract, then mix until combined. Use a spatula to scrape down the bowl’s sides if necessary, and blend again.
6. Gradually incorporate the dry mixture, adding approximately 1/4 cup at a time, until fully mixed.
7. Shape the dough into roughly 8 large balls, or smaller ones to make about 22-24 cookies. Place them on the prepared trays.
8. Press an indentation into each cookie using your thumb or the end of a utensil. I use the end of a wooden juicer, dusted with flour to prevent sticking.
9. Place approximately 1 tablespoon of streusel filling in each cookie’s indentation, then bake for about 8-11 minutes, until the edges are firm and slightly golden. They will continue cooking on the tray, so remove them before they seem fully done to avoid overbaking.
10. For perfectly round cookies, immediately after baking, use a round cookie cutter or glass (larger than the cookie) to gently swirl around each cookie, smoothing out uneven edges.
11. Allow the cookies to sit on the tray for about 5 minutes, then move them to a cooling rack.
12. Combine the icing ingredients by whisking them together. Once the cookies have cooled, drizzle icing on top and enjoy!

Notes

• Ensure the butter for the streusel is soft enough to mix by hand without melting.
• Use cold, cubed butter in the dough to maintain structure and a tender crumb.
• Sift powdered sugar before whisking with vanilla and milk for smooth icing.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Calories: 300
• Fat: 12g
• Protein: 20g

Keywords: streusel filling cookies, cinnamon streusel cookies, thumbprint cookies recipe, homemade streusel topping, baking with cake flour, vanilla icing drizzle

Mastering Coffee Cake Cookies

Fundamentals

Understanding the fundamentals of baking coffee cake cookies is essential for achieving that perfect balance of flavors and textures. The key ingredients include a mix of all-purpose and cake flour, which together create a tender crumb that is both light and satisfying. Cinnamon and brown sugar form the backbone of the flavor profile, infusing the cookies with warmth and sweetness.

Incorporating cornstarch into the dough is another crucial step; it helps to soften the cookies and prevents them from spreading too much during baking. The combination of baking soda and baking powder ensures that the cookies rise just enough to create a soft, pillowy texture. With the right balance of moisture and structure, these cookies deliver a delightful eating experience.

Preparation/Setup

Before you begin baking, gather all your ingredients and preheat your oven to 400°F. Line your baking trays with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Assembling your ingredients ahead of time will make the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Start by preparing the streusel filling. Mix the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt in a medium bowl. Use your fingers to incorporate the softened butter until the mixture forms small clusters. This step is crucial for creating that classic crumbly topping found in traditional coffee cakes.

Creating the Perfect Coffee Cake Cookie

Technique

The technique of mixing the dough is just as important as the ingredients themselves. Start by combining the cubed cold butter with both brown and granulated sugars in a stand mixer. Use the paddle attachment and mix until the texture is smooth, which usually takes about 1-2 minutes. This ensures that the butter is evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract to the mixture, blending until combined. This step adds richness and depth to the cookies, enhancing their flavor profile. Gradually incorporate the dry mixture, adding about 1/4 cup at a time. This gradual incorporation helps prevent over-mixing, which can lead to tough cookies.

Tips/Tricks

One trick to achieving perfectly round cookies is to use a round cookie cutter or glass immediately after baking. Gently swirl it around each cookie to smooth out any uneven edges. This technique not only improves the appearance but also ensures even baking.

For a deeper flavor, let the dough rest in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight before baking. This allows the flavors to meld and develop, producing a more complex and nuanced cookie. Additionally, chilling the dough helps control spreading, resulting in thicker, chewier cookies.

Perfecting Coffee Cake Cookies

Perfecting Results

Achieving the perfect coffee cake cookie involves attention to detail at every step. Use your thumb or the end of a floured utensil to press an indentation into each cookie. This creates a space for the streusel filling, ensuring it stays in place during baking. Add about 1 tablespoon of streusel into each indentation for the ideal topping-to-cookie ratio.

Baking time is critical; aim for 8-11 minutes until the edges are firm and slightly golden. Remember that cookies continue to cook on the tray after being removed from the oven. It’s best to take them out when they appear slightly underdone to avoid overbaking.

Troubleshooting/Variations

If your cookies spread too much, ensure your butter is cold and the dough is chilled before baking. This helps maintain their shape and prevents excessive spreading. If your cookies are too dry, check your measurements, particularly the flour, to ensure accuracy.

For a fun variation, try adding a hint of nutmeg or cardamom to the streusel filling for a unique twist. You can also experiment with different extracts, such as almond or maple, to create new flavor profiles that complement the classic coffee cake taste.

Serving Coffee Cake Cookies

Serving/Presentation

Presentation is key when serving coffee cake cookies. Once the cookies have cooled, drizzle the icing made from powdered sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt over the top. This adds a touch of sweetness and an attractive finish. The icing should be thick enough to set but thin enough to drizzle easily.

Arrange the cookies on a platter, allowing the icing to set before serving. If you’re hosting a gathering, consider pairing them with a selection of teas or coffees to enhance the flavors. For an extra special touch, serve them alongside lemon pound cake cookies or blueberry cheesecake cookies for a delightful dessert spread.

Pairings/Storage

Store coffee cake cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you prefer to keep them longer, freeze them in a single layer before transferring them to a zip-top bag for extended storage. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature.

For a delightful pairing without alcohol, these cookies are perfect with a steaming mug of your favorite coffee blend. Alternatively, enjoy them with a glass of cold milk for a classic combination. Explore other delightful recipes like coffee cookies to expand your cookie repertoire.

Conclusion

In summary, coffee cake cookies offer a wonderful blend of warmth and sweetness, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. By understanding the fundamentals of the recipe, paying attention to technique, and perfecting your results, you can enjoy these cookies at their finest. Remember, the joy of baking lies in the process and the pleasure of sharing your creations with others.

Embrace the versatility of coffee cake cookies and explore the various ways to serve and enjoy them. Whether you’re savoring them alone or sharing them with friends and family, these cookies are sure to bring smiles and create lasting memories. Dive into the world of baking and discover the endless possibilities that await.

For more delightful recipes, check out cream cheese sugar cookies recipe and classic no-bake chocolate peanut butter cookies. Expand your baking repertoire and continue celebrating the joy of homemade treats.

FAQs – Coffee Cake Cookies