Coffee Cake Cookies Recipe

I’ve got to tell you, this Coffee Cake Cookies Recipe has become a favorite in my kitchen for good reason. It brilliantly combines the crunch of classic coffee cake streusel with the portability and fun of a cookie. Whenever I want a cozy treat that pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea, these cookies are always my go-to.

You’ll find that these Coffee Cake Cookies have just the right balance of soft, tender cookie dough with a crispy cinnamon streusel center that surprises you with every bite. Whether you’re baking to share with friends or just indulging yourself during a quiet afternoon, this recipe really hits the spot and never disappoints.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

All the ingredients in this Coffee Cake Cookies Recipe work harmoniously to create a tender, flavorful treat with that signature cinnamon kick. I recommend using real unsalted butter and fresh cinnamon for the best results.

• All-purpose flour: For structure and chew—make sure to spoon and level for accuracy.
• Cake flour: This is what keeps the cookie tender and soft, giving it that delicate crumb like a coffee cake.
• Cornstarch: Helps keep the cookies light and tender—don’t skip it!
• Cinnamon: This is your main flavor star, so I always go for a good-quality ground cinnamon.
• Baking soda & baking powder: Both work together for proper rise and that perfect texture.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the flavors.
• Unsalted butter: Use cold butter cubed for the dough and softened butter for the streusel mixture.
• Brown sugar & granulated sugar: The brown sugar adds moisture and depth, while granulated sugar gives some crispiness.
• Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla elevates the flavor.
• Egg and egg yolk: Adds richness and keeps cookies tender.
• Heavy cream or milk: Used in the icing for a smooth finish.
• Powdered sugar: For that sweet and smooth icing drizzle on top.

Variations

I love playing around with this Coffee Cake Cookies Recipe to keep things interesting, and you should too! Whether you want to add nuts for crunch or swap ingredients for dietary needs, it’s easy to make this recipe your own.

• Add Nuts or Coconut: I sometimes toss in finely chopped walnuts or pecans into the streusel for extra texture and warmth.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free all-purpose blend and ensure your cake flour substitute is gluten-free as well; the texture changes a bit but still delicious!
• Dairy-Free Option: Swap butter for vegan butter and use a plant-based milk in the icing.
• Extra Streusel Topping: Since the streusel is so addictive, doubling it and sprinkling extra on top before baking is a game changer.

How to Make Coffee Cake Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Streusel Filling

Start by combining the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Then, work in the softened butter using your fingers until you get small clumps that hold together loosely. I find this hands-on method is easiest and gives the streusel that perfect crumbly texture. Pop the streusel in the fridge to chill while you work on the cookie dough—this keeps it firm and ready for scooping later.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cake flour, cornstarch, cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Making sure this blend is well combined ensures your cookies bake evenly with that delicate crumb everyone loves.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

Put the cold cubed butter along with the brown and granulated sugar in your stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Mix on medium speed until creamy and smooth—usually about 1-2 minutes. This step is crucial for creating a tender cookie base, so don’t rush it!

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the egg, extra egg yolk, and vanilla extract until fully combined. If you see any flour or sugar sticking to the sides of the bowl, scrape it down with a spatula to mix everything evenly for the best texture.

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Gradually add your dry flour mixture, about a quarter cup at a time, mixing just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so stop as soon as the dough comes together and looks consistent.

Step 6: Shape and Fill Your Cookies

Scoop the dough into balls—about eight large ones or divide smaller for more cookies. Place them spaced on lined baking sheets. Here’s a fun trick I’ve discovered: make an indent in each cookie with your thumb or the end of a wooden juicer dipped in flour to prevent sticking. Then spoon about a tablespoon of the chilled streusel into each well.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake in a preheated 400°F oven for 8 to 11 minutes. Watch for the edges to look set and lightly golden, but don’t overbake! Pulling them out a little early means the cookies stay moist and soft as they finish baking on the hot sheet. For perfectly round cookies, immediately after baking, place a cookie cutter around each cookie and gently swirl—it smooths out those uneven edges beautifully.

Step 8: Cool and Ice

Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, whisk together melted butter, heavy cream (or milk), powdered sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt to make the icing. Drizzle this over each cookie for that classic sweet finish that ties the whole coffee cake vibe together.

How to Serve Coffee Cake Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

I usually keep garnishes simple with a drizzle of the vanilla icing, but on special occasions, I sprinkle a bit of extra cinnamon sugar right before baking for an extra sparkle of sweetness and crunch. You could also add a light dusting of powdered sugar right before serving—it looks cute and adds a touch of elegance.

Side Dishes

These coffee cake cookies pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or chai latte. For brunch gatherings, I like serving them alongside fresh fruit and a creamy vanilla yogurt to balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

One time, I arranged these cookies on a rustic wooden board with mini espresso cups and a few cinnamon sticks for a cozy coffee-themed party spread. They’re also fantastic stacked in a pretty cookie tin as a homemade gift during the holidays—everyone raves about the thoughtful surprise!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover Coffee Cake Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, where they stay fresh and soft for up to three days. If you want to extend their life, make sure to layer them with parchment paper to keep the icing intact and prevent sticking.

Freezing

Freezing these cookies works great! I wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When I want a quick treat, I thaw them at room temperature for about an hour and they taste almost as fresh as the day I baked them.

Reheating

To enjoy them warm, I pop frozen or refrigerated cookies into a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes or microwave on low for 15 seconds—just enough to soften without melting the icing. This little step revives the cookie’s softness perfectly every time.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love how this Coffee Cake Cookies Recipe brings that nostalgic coffee cake flavor into a fun, easy-to-share cookie form. It’s become a staple in my house for breakfasts, snacks, and desserts alike. I have a feeling once you try these, you’ll find a new favorite too — so go ahead, bake a batch, and share the coziness!

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