Name: Delicious Coffee Cake Cookies: Soft, Chewy, and Irresistible
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 66 min
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour (Make sure it's leveled.); 1/2 cup brown sugar (Packed.); 1 tsp cinnamon (Dash of nutmeg optional.); 1 pinch salt (To enhance overall taste.); 1/2 cup unsalted butter (Softened.); 1 cup all-purpose flour (Gluten-free flour can replace it.); 1/4 cup cake flour (Substitute with ¾ cup all-purpose flour minus 2 tbsp plus 2 tbsp cornstarch.); 2 tbsp cornstarch (A crucial ingredient.); 1 tsp cinnamon (Add more if desired.); 1 tsp baking soda (No substitutes.); 1 tsp baking powder (Essential for rise.); 1 tsp salt (Regular or sea salt works.); 1/2 cup unsalted butter (Cubed, can replace with vegan butter.); 1/2 cup brown sugar (Packed, white sugar can lighten the cookie.); 1/4 cup granulated sugar (Basic sweetness.); 1 tsp vanilla extract (Consider almond extract for variety.); 1 large egg (Flax egg can be a substitute.); 1 large egg yolk (Can omit for egg-free version.); 1/2 cup unsalted butter (Melted.); 2 tbsp heavy cream (Plant-based milk can substitute.); 2 cups powdered sugar (Sifted.); 1 tsp vanilla extract (Almond extract as an alternative.); 1 pinch salt (Optional but recommended.)

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Picture this: a lazy Saturday morning, and the warm, inviting aroma of cinnamon wafts through your home. It’s the perfect time to treat yourself! I discovered the joys of making Coffee Cake Cookies during a coffee-fueled baking spree, and let me tell you—these delightful treats are about to become your new favorite obsession. Imagine soft, chewy cookies topped with a buttery streusel that crumbles in all the right ways, drizzled with creamy vanilla icing.

What makes these cookies even better? They come together in just 25 minutes, offering the nostalgic flavors of a classic coffee cake in a handy, bite-sized form. Whether you’re enjoying them alongside your morning coffee or serving them as a sweet afternoon snack, these cookies are quick to whip up and sure to impress. Plus, there’s even a gluten-free alternative for those who need it! Get ready to fill your kitchen with exquisite aromas, as we dive into this irresistible recipe that promises to transform your breakfast game!

Why Are Coffee Cake Cookies So Enticing?

Irresistible Flavor: The buttery streusel and creamy icing create a delightful blend of sweet and savory that’ll remind you of your favorite coffee cake.
Quick to Make: In just 25 minutes, you can have these delicious cookies ready to enjoy—perfect for busy mornings!
Soft and Chewy: Each bite boasts a tender texture that melts in your mouth, making them a treat everyone will love.
Versatile Options: With a gluten-free substitution possible, these cookies cater to various dietary needs, ensuring everyone can partake.
Perfect Pairing: Whether you’re savoring them with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate, these cookies elevate snack time to a new level.
Experience the joy of homemade goodness with these easy-to-make treats, perfect for any occasion!

Coffee Cake Cookies Ingredients

For the Streusel:

All-purpose flour – Structure is key; regular flour can be used—just make sure it’s leveled.
Brown sugar (packed) – Adds sweetness and moisture; feel free to use light or dark brown sugar here.
Cinnamon – Infuses warmth and flavor; try enhancing with a dash of nutmeg if desired.
Pinch of salt – Elevates the overall taste; standard table salt will do just fine.
Unsalted butter (softened) – Acts as a binder while adding richness; margarine can be a good substitute.

For the Cookie Dough:

All-purpose flour – Provides structure; gluten-free flour can replace it if needed.
Cake flour – Ensures tenderness; substitute with ¾ cup of all-purpose flour minus 2 tbsp plus 2 tbsp of cornstarch.
Cornstarch – Softens texture; a crucial ingredient that cannot be substituted.
Cinnamon – Another layer of flavor; feel free to add more if you’re a fan.
Baking soda – Serves as a leavening agent; no substitutes required.
Baking powder – Essential for rise; stick to the recipe for best results.
Salt – Enhances flavors; both regular and sea salt work well in this mix.
Unsalted butter (cubed) – Provides fat for flavor and texture; can be replaced with vegan butter.
Brown sugar (packed) – Infuses sweetness and moisture; white sugar can lighten the cookie if you prefer.
Granulated sugar – Basic sweetness; no substitutions necessary.
Vanilla extract – A vital flavoring that brightens up the mix; consider using almond extract for a different twist.
Egg – Acts as a binder and adds moisture; a flax egg serves as a vegan replacement.
Egg yolk – Introduces richness; omit for an egg-free version.

For the Icing:

Unsalted butter (melted) – Forms the base for your creamy icing; margarine can work here too.
Heavy cream or milk – Provides the necessary liquid for icing consistency; any plant-based milk can substitute.
Powdered sugar (sifted) – Adds sweetness and thickness; stick to this classic ingredient for the best icing.
Vanilla extract – Perfect for flavoring; alternating with almond extract can offer a unique twist.
Pinch of salt – Balances the sweetness; optional but recommended for a well-rounded taste.

Dive into the delightful world of Coffee Cake Cookies with these easy-to-follow ingredients!

How to Make Coffee Cake Cookies

Prepare the Streusel: In a bowl, combine all streusel ingredients, mixing until small clumps form. Then, refrigerate the mixture to let the flavors meld and the butter firm up.
Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cake flour, cornstarch, cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until thoroughly combined.
Cream Butter and Sugars: In a stand mixer, beat the cubed unsalted butter and both sugars until smooth and creamy. Add the egg and vanilla, mixing until fully incorporated for that heavenly flavor.
Combine Mixtures: Gradually incorporate the dry mix into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix for perfect texture!
Shape Cookies: Scoop the dough and roll it into balls, placing them on prepared sheets. Use your thumb to create a gentle indentation in the center of each cookie.
Add Streusel: Carefully fill the thumbprint wells with the cold streusel mixture, pressing lightly to secure it in place.
Bake: Pop them in the oven and bake for 8-11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Let them rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
Make Icing: In a bowl, whisk together the icing ingredients until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cookies for that perfect finishing touch.

Optional: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon on top of the icing for an extra touch of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Coffee Cake Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough and streusel mixture up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Simply shape the cookie balls and create thumbprints, then chill them for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure they hold their shape. As for the streusel, keep it chilled to prevent melting during baking. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply fill each thumbprint with the cold streusel and bake. You’ll have delectably soft and chewy cookies that taste just as delicious as if they were freshly made, saving you precious time on busy mornings!

Expert Tips for Coffee Cake Cookies

Chill the Dough: Before baking, chill the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes. This helps achieve thicker cookies that hold their shape better.
Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, stir until just incorporated to keep your cookies soft and chewy—overmixing can lead to tough treats.
Use Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheets with parchment for easy cookie removal and to ensure even baking—this is a simple trick that makes a big difference!
Watch Baking Time: Keep a close eye on your cookies as they bake. Remove them when the edges are golden brown for a soft center that melts in your mouth.
Customize Your Icing: Feel free to experiment with flavored extracts in the icing, adjusting to your preference for a unique spin on these delightful Coffee Cake Cookies.
Cool Cookies Properly: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This helps prevent any breakage and lets them firm up nicely.

How to Store and Freeze Coffee Cake Cookies

Room Temperature: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness and chewy texture.

Fridge: Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to a week, which slightly enhances their flavor while keeping them soft.

Freezer: You can freeze these Coffee Cake Cookies for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to an airtight container.

Reheating: To enjoy them warm, microwave the cookies for about 10-15 seconds or place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes.

What to Serve with Coffee Cake Cookies?

Warm your heart and elevate your coffee break with delightful pairings that perfectly complement these delicious cookies.

Freshly Brewed Coffee: The bold flavors of coffee enhance the sweet notes of the cookies, making for a delightful morning or afternoon treat.
Imagine the soothing aroma and rich warmth wrapping around you while you nibble on a cookie.
Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in chai provide a perfect contrast to the sweet, buttery taste of the cookies, offering a comforting experience.
Hot Chocolate: The creamy richness of hot chocolate pairs beautifully with the sweet, crumbly texture of the cookies, creating a nostalgic dessert moment.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a creamy contrast to the chewy cookies, turning your treat into an indulgent dessert.
Berry Compote: A tangy berry compote cuts through the sweetness and adds a refreshing burst of flavor that complements your cookie perfectly.
Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: A light sprinkle of cinnamon sugar enhances the flavors of both coffee cake and cookies, providing an extra layer of sweetness and spice.
Milk: Whether cold or warm, milk balances the sweetness, providing a classic combination that transports you back to childhood.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream lightly spreads atop the cookie brings an airy texture, enhancing every delicious bite.
Lemonade: For a refreshing option, serve with iced lemonade, whose zesty brightness offers a lovely contrast to the sweet, rich flavors of the cookies.

Coffee Cake Cookies Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine as you adapt this delightful recipe to suit your taste preferences!

Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a delicious, celiac-friendly treat.
Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans into the dough for extra texture and flavor. This adds a delightful crunch that complements the softness.
Chocolate Drizzle: Melt chocolate and drizzle it over cooled cookies instead of icing for a rich alternative. The combination of chocolate and cinnamon is simply divine!
Spiced Delight: Incorporate pumpkin pie spice into the dough for a seasonal twist that adds warmth and depth to each bite. It’s perfect for autumn gatherings!
Fruit Flavors: Add dried cranberries or chopped apples into the cookie dough for a burst of fruity flavor that brightens up the coffee cake experience.
Coconut Dreams: Mix in unsweetened shredded coconut for a tropical touch that brings a lovely chewiness and flavor contrast to the cookies.
Decadent Icing: Amp up the icing by adding a tablespoon of espresso or coffee for a deeper coffee flavor, enhancing the nostalgic coffee cake vibe.
Herbal Touch: Experiment with a hint of freshly grated lemon zest in the dough for a bright finish that balances the sweet flavors beautifully.

Coffee Cake Cookies Recipe FAQs

What kind of flour is best for these Coffee Cake Cookies?
Absolutely! All-purpose flour is recommended for structure, but you can easily swap it for gluten-free flour if needed. Just ensure that any alternative is suitable for baking to achieve the right texture.

How should I store my Coffee Cake Cookies?
Store these scrumptious cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, to maintain their lovely chewiness. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them in a sealed container for up to a week—an option that subtly enhances their flavor!

Can I freeze Coffee Cake Cookies?
Very! Freezing is a fantastic way to keep these cookies for later. To freeze, place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and pop them in the freezer until solid. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.

What if my cookies spread too much while baking?
I’ve been there! If your cookies spread too much, it might be due to soft butter or insufficient chilling of the dough. Make sure to chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before shaping. Additionally, if your dough seems too soft when formed, consider adding a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until you achieve a workable consistency.

Are these cookies suitable for people with allergies?
Yes! While the original recipe contains gluten and dairy, you can easily adapt it for various dietary needs. Use gluten-free flour blends and substitute unsalted butter with vegan butter or coconut oil. You can also replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) for a vegan option.

Can I customize the streusel topping?
Definitely! While brown sugar and cinnamon are classic choices, consider adding nuts for crunch or even dried fruits for a delightful twist. I often enjoy adding chopped pecans or walnuts to my streusel, giving a wonderful nutty flavor and extra texture to the cookies.

Enjoy your baking adventures with these Coffee Cake Cookies!