Why Coffee Cake Cookies are the Perfect Treat
When you're craving something sweet but can't decide between cookies and cake, coffee cake cookies are the ideal solution! These delightful treats bring together the best qualities of both: they have the soft, tender texture of a cookie with the rich flavors reminiscent of traditional coffee cake. The buttery cookie base, topped with a generous layer of cinnamon streusel, makes for an irresistible combination that's perfect for any time of day.
Imagine enjoying these cookies alongside your morning coffee, or as a delightful afternoon snack while catching up with friends. Moreover, these cookies are not just a visual treat; they're also incredibly straightforward to make, with a simple ingredient list that ensures you won't spend hours in the kitchen.
If you love coffee cake and cookies, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Plus, with the option of adding a simple glaze, you can take them from delicious to decadent in just a few minutes. Ready to impress your friends and family? Let’s dive into making these tasty coffee cake cookies!
Ingredients for Coffee Cake Cookies
Creating the perfect coffee cake cookies is all about balancing flavors and textures! Let’s dive into the essential ingredients you'll need to whip up this delightful treat.
Essentials for the Cookie Base
To start, create a soft and delicious cookie base with these staple ingredients:
- ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter: Softened to give the cookies a tender texture.
- ½ cup (100 g) light brown sugar: For a rich, caramel-like sweetness.
- ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar: Adds that classic sweetness we all love.
- 1 large egg: The binder that brings everything together.
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract: A touch of warmth and flavor.
- 2 cups (225 g) cake flour: This helps achieve that tender crumb.
- 1 Tablespoon cornstarch: For extra softness.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder & ¼ teaspoon baking soda: The leavening agents for lift.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors beautifully.
Ingredients for the Streusel Topping
Next, let’s add that signature crumble with a delicious streusel topping:
- 6 Tablespoons (85 g) unsalted butter: Melted and cooled for easy mixing.
- 1 ¼ cups (156 g) all-purpose flour: Provides the right texture.
- ½ cup (100 g) light brown sugar: Packed for that extra sweetness.
- ⅓ cup (66 g) granulated sugar: Balances the flavors nicely.
- ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a cozy, spiced flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Just a pinch to round out the flavor.
Optional Glaze Components
Feeling a little fancy? A drizzle of glaze can elevate your coffee cake cookies:
- ⅔ cup (85 g) powdered sugar: For that sweet, smooth finish.
- 1-2 Tablespoons whole milk: Adjust to reach your desired consistency.
Now that you have your ingredients lined up, you’re just a few steps away from baking these scrumptious coffee cake cookies! Happy baking!
Step-by-Step Preparation of Coffee Cake Cookies
Baking can feel overwhelming, but once you break it down, it’s as easy as 1-2-3! Making these delightful coffee cake cookies will not only fill your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas, but they will also impress any guests. Let's dive into the step-by-step process!
Prepping Your Baking Equipment
Before you start, gathering all your baking tools will save you a lot of time and hassle. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowls
- Parchment paper (and don’t forget your oven!)
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and warm when you’re ready to bake. Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper will help your cookies come off easily, and it saves you a messy cleanup!
Making the Cookie Dough
Now, onto the fun part—making the dough! In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- ½ cup of softened unsalted butter
- ½ cup light brown sugar (packed)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
Beat these together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This aerates the dough, making your cookies tender. Next, add one large egg and ¼ teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
In another bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients:
- 2 cups cake flour
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a uniform dough forms. Cover the dough and let it chill in the refrigerator while you whip up that delectable streusel topping.
Preparing the Streusel
Your coffee cake cookies wouldn’t be complete without the cinnamon streusel! Melt 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter, allowing it to cool slightly. In a medium bowl, mix together:
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup light brown sugar
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Once combined, drizzle the melted butter into the dry mixture, tossing it with a fork until clumps form. This will create that crunchy texture you love!
Assembling the Cookies
Time to bring it all together! Scoop the cookie dough into 2 tablespoon-sized balls, rolling them until smooth. Space them out on your prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each one. Make a little indent in the center of each ball and generously fill it with streusel. Don’t be shy with the topping—more is better!
Baking the Cookies to Perfection
Put the cookies in the center of your preheated oven and bake for about 12 minutes, until the edges are light golden brown. Once done, allow them to cool on the baking sheet for at least ten minutes. If you’re feeling adventurous, drizzle a simple glaze over the top!
These coffee cake cookies are perfect for that afternoon pick-me-up or enjoyed with a cup of coffee. So, roll up your sleeves, follow these steps, and get ready to savor the scrumptiousness of your homemade cookies!
Variations on Coffee Cake Cookies
Adding Nuts for Extra Crunch
Want to take your coffee cake cookies to the next level? Consider adding some chopped nuts for that extra crunch! Walnuts or pecans pair wonderfully with the sweet cinnamon streusel. Just fold in about ½ cup of your preferred nuts into the cookie dough before baking. This not only enhances the texture but also adds a delightful nuttiness that complements the rich flavors. Check out Healthline for the health benefits of including nuts in your baking!
Experimenting with Flavors
Feel free to get creative! You can switch up the flavors of your coffee cake cookies by incorporating ingredients like almond extract, chocolate chips, or even seasonal spices like nutmeg. Consider adding dried fruits, like cranberries or raisins, to bring in a hint of natural sweetness. By experimenting with flavors, you can craft a unique cookie each time that reflects your personal taste. Don't be afraid to mix and match ingredients until you discover your perfect blend!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Coffee Cake Cookies
Importance of Chilling the Dough
Chilling the dough for your coffee cake cookies is essential. This step allows the fats to firm up, resulting in softer centers and crisp edges after baking. By resting the dough in the refrigerator, you also minimize spreading, ensuring your cookies maintain a lovely shape. If you're in a hurry, aim for at least 30 minutes, but chilling for a couple of hours or overnight really enhances the flavor!
Streusel Tips for a Crunchy Topping
To achieve that ideal crunchy texture, your streusel mixture should be clumpy yet crumbly. Make sure to melt your butter and let it cool slightly before mixing; this helps prevent the streusel from becoming too gooey. Additionally, don't skimp on the streusel topping—heaping it generously enhances both flavor and presentation! If you find you have extra streusel, store it in an airtight container for future baking adventures.
Serving Suggestions for Coffee Cake Cookies
Best Beverages to Pair With Your Cookies
When it comes to enjoying your coffee cake cookies, think of cozy beverage options that enhance their delightful flavors. A classic choice is a robust cup of brewed coffee, preferably a medium roast that balances the sweetness. If you prefer something different, consider brewing up a spiced chai tea — its warm notes pair beautifully with the cinnamon streusel. For a refreshing twist, an almond milk latte can add a nutty creaminess, complementing the buttery cookie base perfectly. Finally, don’t overlook iced herbal teas, which can provide a light, fruity touch to your cookie experience!
Creative Ways to Serve Them at Gatherings
Want to impress your friends at the next get-together? Serve your coffee cake cookies on a two-tiered dessert stand for visual appeal. Arrange them alongside fresh fruit like strawberries and blueberries for a splash of color. You could also create a fun cookie bar where guests can decorate their cookies with additional glaze, chocolate chips, or whipped cream. Another idea is to box a few cookies in cute kraft paper bags tied with twine, making for thoughtful party favors. These little touches will elevate your gathering and leave everyone craving your delicious cookies!
Time Breakdown for Coffee Cake Cookies
Preparation Time
Getting ready for baking these delightful coffee cake cookies takes about 30 minutes. You'll be combining ingredients and chilling the dough, allowing you to prepare for the deliciousness to come!
Baking Time
Once you've shaped your cookies and topped them with streusel, pop them into a preheated oven for 12 minutes. Just the right amount of time to achieve that perfect golden edge!
Total Time
From preparation to the moment you take that first bite, the total time invested is around 42 minutes. Quick enough to fit into your busy day, but delicious enough to become a regular treat!
Nutritional Facts for Coffee Cake Cookies
Calories per Cookie
Each delicious coffee cake cookie packs in approximately 383 calories. While they may be on the indulgent side, it’s all about enjoying your treats in moderation!
Key Nutritional Information
In addition to calories, here are some key nutritional highlights for a single cookie:
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 14g (Saturated fat: 9g)
- Sugar: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
These cookies also provide small amounts of important nutrients, including calcium and iron, making them a sweet, satisfying choice for your dessert cravings. When you're craving a bite of something sweet, remember that enjoying these coffee cake cookies can be part of your balanced lifestyle; just savor every delicious bite! If you’re looking for more nutritional tips, check out sources like Healthline for practical advice on dessert moderation.
FAQs about Coffee Cake Cookies
How can I make my cookies softer?
To achieve softer coffee cake cookies, opt for cake flour if you haven't already—it really makes a difference! Additionally, ensure you don’t overbake your cookies. A light golden edge is your cue to take them out of the oven, as they will continue to firm up while cooling. Another tip? Adding a tablespoon of sour cream or yogurt to the dough can enhance moisture, yielding a softer bite.
What if I have leftover streusel?
Don't fret if you have some streusel left over—it can be a delightful addition to other baked goods! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Use it for topping muffins, or sprinkle some over oatmeal for an added sweet crunch. Imagine waking up to warm muffins with streusel waiting for you!
How should I store my cookies?
For optimal freshness, store your coffee cake cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay delicious for up to five days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them! Just wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. This way, you’ll always have a delectable treat on hand whenever a craving strikes.
Conclusion on Coffee Cake Cookies
In summary, coffee cake cookies are the perfect treat to satisfy sweet cravings while offering a delightful twist on traditional coffee cake. With a tender cookie base, crunchy streusel topping, and a simple glaze, they are sure to impress friends and family. Bake a batch today and enjoy every scrumptious bite!
Coffee Cake Cookies
Equipment
- baking sheet
- mixing bowls
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened
- ½ cup light brown sugar firmly packed
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups cake flour
- 1 Tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
Streusel
- 6 Tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup light brown sugar firmly packed
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Glaze (optional)
- ⅔ cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 Tablespoons whole milk plus more as needed
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat oven to 350F (175C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside.
- Combine butter and sugar in a large mixing bowl and use an electric mixer to beat together until light and fluffy.
- Add egg and vanilla and stir until well-combined.
- In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet and stir until completely combined and dough is uniform.
- Cover dough and place in the refrigerator while you prepare the streusel topping.
Streusel Preparation
- Melt butter then set aside and allow to cool until no longer warm to the touch.
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine flour, sugars, cinnamon and salt and stir to combine.
- Drizzle in butter and use a fork to toss/claw the mixture until you have a clumpy streusel.
Assembly and Baking
- Scoop cookies into 2 Tablespoon-sized balls and roll until smooth. Place on cookie sheet, spacing cookies 2” apart, and make a small indent or nest in the center of the dough with your thumb or the back of a round Tablespoon.
- Take a handful (at least 2 Tablespoons) of streusel and gently press into the nest you created. You’ll have a heaping mound of streusel, use a lot! You may have some streusel left over.
- Bake in center rack of 350F (175C) oven for 12 minutes or until edges are just beginning to turn light golden brown. Allow to cool for at least ten minutes before decorating with glaze (if using).
- To make the glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar with 1 Tablespoon of milk. Add additional milk as needed until you have a smooth glaze that ribbons off of your whisk. Drizzle over cookies.
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