Name: Coffee Cake Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 57 min
Ingredients: ½ cup butter (softened); ½ cup brown sugar; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg (room temperature); 1 large egg yolk (room temperature); 2 teaspoon vanilla; ½ teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1¾ cups all-purpose flour; ½ cup flour; ⅓ cup brown sugar; 1½ teaspoon cinnamon; pinch salt; 4 tablespoon butter (soft); 1 cup powdered sugar; good sprinkle of cinnamon; 1-2 tablespoon milk

Introduction to Coffee Cake Cookies

Are you ready to indulge in a delightful fusion of two beloved treats? Coffee cake cookies combine the rich flavors of traditional coffee cake with the irresistible charm of cookies, creating a snack that is perfect for any time of day. Imagine sinking your teeth into a soft, buttery cookie that boasts a warm cinnamon scent and a crumbly topping—what's not to love?

What makes coffee cake cookies a delightful treat? Well, the unique blend of ingredients is key. The buttery base pairs beautifully with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, while the crumb topping adds just the right amount of crunch. The textures will remind you of a classic coffee cake but in a portable, cookie form.

Plus, these cookies are incredibly versatile! Whether you enjoy them alongside your morning coffee, as a sweet afternoon pick-me-up, or even as a delightful dessert, they’re sure to impress. Bake a batch today to savor a moment of indulgence or share them with friends for an ideal coffee break treat. Looking for more fun ways to enjoy cookies? Check out some of my favorite cookie recipes here.

Trust me, once you take a bite of these coffee cake cookies, you’ll understand why they're quickly becoming a fan favorite!

Ingredients for Coffee Cake Cookies

When it comes to baking delicious coffee cake cookies, having the right ingredients is crucial for achieving that perfect texture and flavor. Here's a breakdown of what you'll need:

Essential Ingredients for the Cookies

Butter: ½ cup (113.5 g), softened for that rich flavor.
Brown Sugar: ½ cup (110 g) gives a deep sweetness.
Granulated Sugar: ¼ cup (50 g) balances the brown sugar.
Egg: 1 large, at room temperature for moisture.
Egg Yolk: 1, adds richness.
Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons for warmth and flavor.
Baking Powder & Baking Soda: ½ teaspoon each for lift.
Salt: ½ teaspoon to enhance sweetness.
Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon adds that wonderful coffee cake essence.
Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon for a tender crumb.
All-Purpose Flour: 1¾ cups (245 g) provides structure.

Ingredients for the Crumb Topping

Flour: ½ cup (62.5 g) for creating the crumb texture.
Brown Sugar: ⅓ cup (73.33 g) adds sweetness and depth.
Cinnamon: 1½ teaspoons for that classic coffee cake flavor.
Salt: A pinch to enhance flavors.
Butter: 4 tablespoons, softened, for a creamy finish.

Ingredients for the Glaze

Powdered Sugar: 1 cup, the base for your glaze.
Cinnamon: A good sprinkle to tie in the flavors.
Milk: 1-2 tablespoons for the right consistency.

With these ingredients combined, you'll create cookies that are not only delightful but also reminiscent of your favorite coffee cake! For additional baking inspiration, check out sources like BBC Good Food for tips on elevating your cookie game.

Step-by-step preparation of Coffee Cake Cookies

Making delicious coffee cake cookies is a delightful way to combine the rich flavors of coffee cake with the convenience of cookies. Follow these easy steps for perfectly baked treats!

Preheat the oven and line the baking sheets

To start, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial; a properly preheated oven ensures your cookies bake evenly, yielding that perfect texture. While the oven warms up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze!

Cream the butter and sugars

In your stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, combine ½ cup of softened butter with ½ cup of brown sugar and ¼ cup of granulated sugar. Beat them together on medium-high speed for about 3 to 4 minutes, until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is vital as it incorporates air into the dough, helping your cookies rise beautifully. If you want to dive deeper into the science of creaming butter and sugar, check out this cooking guide.

Incorporate eggs and vanilla

Once your butter and sugars are ready, it’s time to add in one large egg, one egg yolk, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Mix these ingredients on low speed until they are fully combined. The egg adds moisture and helps bind the cookie dough, while the vanilla brings a warm flavor reminiscent of coffee cake.

Mix in the dry ingredients

Next, in a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: ½ teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon baking soda, ½ teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, and 1¾ cups of all-purpose flour. Gradually mix this dry mixture into your wet ingredients, being careful not to overmix. Stop when you still see traces of flour; this is key to keeping your cookies soft and tender.

Shape the cookie dough

Scoop the dough into 3-tablespoon-size balls and place about six cookies per baking sheet. Using the back of the cookie scoop or your fingers, create an indentation in the center of each dough ball. This little step is important for holding the delicious crumb topping, which we’ll prepare next!

Prepare the crumb topping

In a small bowl, mix together ½ cup flour, ⅓ cup brown sugar, 1½ teaspoons cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Incorporate 4 tablespoons of soft butter into the mix until it resembles coarse crumbs. Take a handful of crumb topping and place it into the indentations made earlier. This will add that irresistible texture and flavor reminiscent of traditional coffee cake!

Bake the cookies

Pop your baking sheets into the oven and bake for 9 to 12 minutes until the edges are golden brown. As they bake, consider running a spoon or spatula around the freshly baked cookies to help shape them into perfect circles. This will enhance their presentation!

Cool and glaze

After baking, let your cookies cool completely on a wire rack. While they’re cooling, you can prepare the glaze. Simply mix 1 cup of powdered sugar with a good sprinkle of cinnamon and 1-2 tablespoons of milk, adjusting until you achieve your desired consistency. Drizzle the glaze over your cooled cookies and enjoy!

Now that you’ve followed these steps, you’re ready to indulge in your own homemade coffee cake cookies! They’re perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying with your favorite cup of coffee. Happy baking!

Variations on Coffee Cake Cookies

Adding Nuts for Crunch

Enhance your coffee cake cookies by incorporating your favorite nuts. Walnuts or pecans lend a delightful crunch and a hint of earthiness. Simply fold in about ½ cup of chopped nuts into the batter before baking. This not only adds texture but also interesting flavors that can elevate your cookies. Plus, nuts offer additional health benefits — they’re a great source of protein and healthy fats!

Swapping Flavors: Chocolate or Lemon Zest

For those looking to mix things up, think about swapping in chocolate or lemon zest for a fresh twist. Adding ½ cup of chocolate chips creates a rich, indulgent version of your cookies. If you prefer a bright, zesty flavor, try incorporating a tablespoon of fresh lemon zest. Both variations will keep your cookies exciting and perfect for sharing with friends at your next brunch or coffee date. Experiment and discover your favorite flavor combination!

Cooking tips and notes for Coffee Cake Cookies

Importance of room temperature ingredients

Using room temperature ingredients is crucial for achieving the perfect coffee cake cookies. When butter and eggs are at room temperature, they blend more easily, resulting in a smoother batter. This helps create the fluffy texture we all crave. If you're short on time, you can warm the eggs in a bowl of warm water for a quick fix.

How to achieve the right cookie texture

For the best texture, be careful not to overmix your dough. Mix your dry ingredients in gently until just combined; this keeps your cookies soft and chewy. Also, letting your cookies cool slightly on the pan before moving them helps maintain their shape. Remember, golden edges are key, so keep an eye on them as they bake!

Serving suggestions for Coffee Cake Cookies

Best drinks to pair with the cookies

When it comes to enjoying your coffee cake cookies, a warm beverage can elevate the experience. Here are some delightful pairings:

Freshly brewed coffee: A classic choice, complementing the coffee flavor in the cookies.
Herbal tea: Options like chamomile or peppermint can provide a soothing contrast.
Iced latte: Perfect for those warm days, it balances the sweetness impeccably.
Cold brew coffee: Its smooth, rich flavor enhances the cinnamon notes of the cookies.

Creative plating ideas

Presenting your coffee cake cookies beautifully can wow your friends and family. Consider these fun plating ideas:

Tiered serving stand: Stack cookies in a charming tiered stand for a café-style display.
Rustic wooden board: Arrange cookies on a wooden board with fresh fruit and nuts for a farm-fresh look.
Colorful plates: Use bright, patterned plates to make your cookies pop visually.
Personalized bags: Serve them in clear treat bags tied with twine for a lovely, simple gift idea.

By thoughtfully selecting your drink and presentation style, you can create an inviting atmosphere perfect for any gathering.

Time Breakdown for Making Coffee Cake Cookies

Preparation Time

Get ready for deliciousness! You’ll need about 15-20 minutes to gather and prepare your ingredients. This includes softening the butter and measuring out the flour—don’t rush, enjoy the process!

Baking Time

The baking magic happens in 9-12 minutes. Keep an eye on those edges; you want them golden brown and inviting!

Total Time

In total, you’re looking at around 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect timing for a cozy afternoon treat or an impromptu gathering. Just think of the joy you’ll spread with these delightful coffee cake cookies!

For those more interested in the science of baking, you might find this article on the importance of ingredient measurements interesting here. Enjoy your baking adventure!

Nutritional Facts for Coffee Cake Cookies

Calories per Cookie

Indulging in these delightful coffee cake cookies is a sweet experience that doesn't have to break the calorie bank. Each cookie contains approximately 345 calories. It's essential to enjoy these treats in moderation as part of a balanced diet, especially if you're mindful of your caloric intake.

Key Nutrients

These cookies not only please the palate but also offer some nutritional benefits. Each cookie provides:

Carbohydrates: 53g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 14g (with 8g being saturated fat)
Sugar: 32g

While they’re a delicious dessert option, consider complementing them with fruit or a protein source for a more balanced snack. For more insights on nutrition, you might check out the USDA FoodData Central for a deeper dive into calories and nutrients in baked goods.

Embark on your baking adventure with these coffee cake cookies, and enjoy each bite while keeping an eye on your overall nutritional goals!

FAQs about Coffee Cake Cookies

Can I freeze coffee cake cookies?

Absolutely! Coffee cake cookies freeze wonderfully, making them a perfect treat to prep ahead. Simply let the cookies cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, just thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to warm them up!

Are there gluten-free options for this recipe?

Yes! You can make gluten-free coffee cake cookies by substituting all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to choose a blend that contains xanthan gum, which helps mimic the structure that gluten provides. Always check the package to ensure it's suitable for baking.

How can I adjust sweetness in the cookies?

If you prefer your coffee cake cookies a bit less sweet, you can easily reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe. Start with a ¼ cup less of brown sugar or granulated sugar. Alternatively, you can experiment with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup—just be mindful to adjust the liquid ingredients accordingly. Remember, baking is all about finding what makes your taste buds happy!

For more baking tips and ideas, check out King Arthur Baking for expert advice!

Conclusion on Coffee Cake Cookies

Why you should try baking these cookies today!

If you're looking for a delightful treat that perfectly marries the warm, comforting flavors of coffee cake with the joy of cookies, these coffee cake cookies are a must-try! They’re easy to prepare and offer a wonderful texture that's sure to impress both friends and family. So why wait? Bake up a batch today and savor every bite!