Coffee Cake Cookies
I’ve combined two of my favorite desserts into one and made these dreamy coffee cake cookies. These cookies bring together the rich flavors of a cinnamon sugar cookie with a buttery streusel filling, all topped off with a delightful drizzle of powdered sugar icing. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy evening at home or a festive gathering with friends and family, these Coffee Cake Cookies are sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and brown sugar creates a warm and inviting taste that will make your taste buds sing.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up these cookies in no time, making them perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Versatile Treat: Ideal for brunches, holiday gatherings, or simply as an afternoon snack with coffee.
- Fun to Customize: You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits to the streusel filling for added texture and flavor.
- Stunning Presentation: The icing drizzle not only adds sweetness but also makes these cookies visually appealing.
Tools and Preparation
To make your baking experience seamless, gather your tools before starting. Having the right equipment will help ensure your Coffee Cake Cookies turn out perfectly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
- Baking sheets
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: This tool makes creaming butter and sugars effortless, ensuring your cookie dough is light and fluffy.
- Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls allows you to keep your ingredients organized and separate during preparation.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats: These help prevent sticking, ensuring that your cookies come off the baking sheet easily without breaking.

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
For the Icing:
- 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter, melted
- 3 Tbsp. heavy cream or milk
- 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 softened butter until small clumps form; this can be done using your fingers for best results. Once combined, 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 to prepare for cookie placement.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, cake flour, cornstarch, cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside this mixture while you prepare the rest.
Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars
Place cubed cold butter along with both sugars into the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Mix on medium speed until smooth—this should take about 1–2 minutes.
Step 5: Add Egg Mixture
Add in one whole egg along with one egg yolk and vanilla extract into the creamed mixture. Blend until fully mixed; scrape down sides as needed using a rubber spatula.
Step 6: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add in the dry ingredient mixture about ¼ cup at a time until well incorporated into the dough.
Step 7: Shape Cookie Dough
Scoop out portions of dough (about 8 large balls or smaller if preferred) onto prepared baking sheets.
Step 8: Create Indentations
Using your thumb or another object like a spoon handle dipped in flour to prevent sticking, create an indent in each cookie ball.
Step 9: Fill with Streusel
Spoon approximately 1 tablespoon of prepared streusel filling into each indentation on the cookies.
Step 10: Bake
Bake for approximately 8–11 minutes until edges appear set and slightly golden brown. Remove just before they look fully baked as they will continue cooking outside of the oven.
Step 11: Shape Cookies If Needed
If you desire perfectly round cookies after they come out of the oven, use a larger circular cutter or glass around each cookie shape gently to even them out while still warm.
Step 12: Cool & Drizzle Icing
Let cookies rest on their sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Whisk together icing ingredients; once cooled completely, drizzle over cookies before serving!
Enjoy your delicious Coffee Cake Cookies!
How to Serve Coffee Cake Cookies
These delightful Coffee Cake Cookies are perfect for any occasion and can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.
With a Cup of Coffee
- Enjoy these cookies fresh from the oven with a steaming cup of coffee. The flavors complement each other beautifully, making for a cozy snack.
As an Afternoon Treat
- Serve these cookies as an afternoon pick-me-up. Pair them with your favorite tea or herbal infusion for a relaxing break during your day.
At a Gathering
- Bring these cookies to parties or family gatherings. They make for a crowd-pleasing dessert that everyone will love, adding a sweet touch to any celebration.
With Ice Cream
- Crumble these cookies over a scoop of vanilla or coffee-flavored ice cream. The combination of warm cookies and cold ice cream creates a delightful contrast.
As a Gift
- Package these cookies in decorative boxes or tins to give as gifts. They are thoughtful homemade treats that friends and family will appreciate.
How to Perfect Coffee Cake Cookies
Creating the perfect Coffee Cake Cookies is easier than you might think! Here are some tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing, resulting in a smoother dough.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated to maintain tenderness in the cookies.
- Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking helps prevent spreading and enhances flavor.
- Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies while baking; they should be golden around the edges but slightly soft in the middle when done.
- Store Properly: To keep cookies fresh longer, store them in an airtight container at room temperature, separating layers with parchment paper.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or different spices to customize your Coffee Cake Cookies for unique twists!
Best Side Dishes for Coffee Cake Cookies
Coffee Cake Cookies pair well with several side dishes that complement their sweetness and texture. Here’s a list of delicious options:
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balance to the sweetness of the cookies.
- Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a wholesome side that contrasts nicely with the cookies.
- Cheese Board: Offer assorted cheeses alongside your cookies for guests who enjoy savory flavors paired with sweet treats.
- Nut Mix: A selection of roasted nuts provides crunch and protein, pairing well without overshadowing the cookie’s flavor.
- Chocolate Fondue: Set up a small fondue pot where guests can dip pieces of cookie into melted chocolate for an indulgent treat.
- Milkshake: A creamy milkshake complements the flavors of coffee cake, making it an exciting beverage option alongside your cookies.
- Mini Muffins: Offer an assortment of mini muffins as an additional baked treat; flavors like banana or blueberry work beautifully together.
- Herbal Tea Selection: Provide various herbal teas that can enhance the flavor experience without competing with the cookie’s sweetness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Coffee Cake Cookies can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Boldly skip the chilling step: Not refrigerating the streusel filling can lead to a soggy texture. Always chill it until you’re ready to use it for that perfect crumbly bite.
- Boldly ignore ingredient measurements: Using too much or too little of an ingredient can ruin the balance of flavors. Always measure precisely with proper techniques for the best results.
- Boldly overmix the dough: Mixing too long can develop gluten, making your cookies tough. Mix just until ingredients are combined for a tender cookie.
- Boldly neglect oven temperature: Baking at an incorrect temperature can lead to cookies that are either burnt or undercooked. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if needed.
- Boldly leave out the icing: Icing adds a beautiful finishing touch and sweetness. Don’t skip it! Drizzle generously once your cookies have cooled.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Keep cookies layered with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Freezing Coffee Cake Cookies
- Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Coffee Cake Cookies
- Boldly use the Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat cookies for about 5-7 minutes for fresh taste.
- Boldly utilize the Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time in 10-15 second intervals until warm.
- Boldly try the Stovetop: Place cookies in a non-stick skillet over low heat, covering them with a lid for a few minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Coffee Cake Cookies.
Can I make Coffee Cake Cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends designed for baking.
What is the best way to store Coffee Cake Cookies?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze them for longer storage.
How do I customize my Coffee Cake Cookies?
Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits into the dough or streusel mixture for extra flavor and texture.
How long do Coffee Cake Cookies last?
They typically last up to 5 days in the refrigerator and about 3 months when frozen properly.
Can I use different spices in my Coffee Cake Cookies?
Absolutely! Experiment with nutmeg, cardamom, or pumpkin spice to create unique flavors according to your preference.
Final Thoughts
These Coffee Cake Cookies beautifully blend two beloved desserts into one delicious treat. With their warm cinnamon flavor and buttery streusel topping, they are perfect alongside your favorite beverage. Feel free to customize them with various add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delightful flavors!
Coffee Cake Cookies
Indulge in the delightful taste of Coffee Cake Cookies, where the comforting flavors of a cinnamon sugar cookie meet a rich, buttery streusel filling. Topped with a sweet powdered sugar icing, these cookies are perfect for any occasion—from cozy evenings at home to festive gatherings with loved ones. Easy to make and fun to customize, they will impress friends and family alike. Bake a batch today and enjoy the scrumptious blend of textures and flavors that make these cookies an instant favorite!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 11 minutes
- Total Time: 31 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tsp. cinnamon
- pinch salt
- 5 Tbsp. softened butter, unsalted
- 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
- 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 tsp. vanilla
- pinch salt
Instructions
- Prepare the streusel filling by combining flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and softened butter until clumps form. Chill until needed.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Mix all-purpose flour, cake flour, cornstarch, cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
- Cream cold cubed butter with brown and granulated sugars until smooth. Add egg mixture (egg, yolk, vanilla) and blend well.
- Gradually incorporate dry ingredients into the butter mixture.
- Scoop dough onto baking sheets; create indentations in each ball and fill with streusel.
- Bake for 8-11 minutes or until edges are set; cool slightly before drizzling icing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg