As the chill of winter settles in, my kitchen becomes a haven, filled with the warm, inviting aroma of fresh-baked treats. Lately, I’ve been utterly enchanted by these Cinnamon Coffee Cake Cookies with Crumb Topping. They marry the beloved flavors of a classic coffee cake into a delightful cookie format that’s perfect for cozy gatherings or solo indulgence with a steaming cup of coffee. What I love most is how quickly they come together—no complex steps or hours of preparation required. Plus, these cookies are a true crowd-pleaser, making them an excellent choice for holiday cookie platters or as handmade gifts. Ready to discover how to whip up a batch that’s just as delicious as it is easy? Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!
Why are These Cookies So Special?
Simplicity at Its Core: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies are perfect for bakers of all levels.
Irresistible Aroma: Baking fills your home with a warm, inviting scent that’s hard to resist, making them a go-to choice for winter gatherings.
Chewy Delight: The chewy texture paired with the crispy crumb topping delivers an unforgettable bite that feels like a little piece of heaven.
Endless Variations: Customize these cookies by adding nuts or chocolate chips, or even swapping in a gluten-free flour blend for a dietary-friendly option.
Perfect With Coffee: Enjoy these cookies warm alongside your favorite coffee or hot chocolate, enhancing both their flavor and your cozy experience.
Whether you’re indulging solo or sharing with friends, these cookies are sure to impress!
Coffee Cake Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookies
- Butter – ½ cup (113.5 g); adds richness and moisture, using unsalted helps control saltiness.
- Brown Sugar – ½ cup (110 g); provides sweetness and a chewy texture, can be substituted with coconut sugar for a less processed option.
- Granulated Sugar – ¼ cup (50 g); sweetens the cookies with no direct substitution needed unless reducing sugar.
- Egg – 1 large, room temp; binds ingredients and adds richness—room temperature helps in proper mixing.
- Egg Yolk – 1, room temp; enhances moisture and richness, can skip for a lighter cookie.
- Vanilla Extract – 2 teaspoons; adds depth of flavor, can substitute with almond extract for a nutty twist.
- Baking Powder – ½ teaspoon; act as a leavening agent, ensuring it’s fresh guarantees proper rising.
- Baking Soda – ½ teaspoon; helps with the rise, works best in combination with acidic ingredients, no substitution.
- Salt – ½ teaspoon; balances sweetness, kosher salt is ideal for a milder flavor.
- Cinnamon – 1 teaspoon; warms up and defines the flavor—feel free to adjust to your taste.
- Cornstarch – 1 tablespoon; improves texture for a soft cookie, no substitute is necessary.
- All-Purpose Flour – 1¾ cups (245 g); the main structural component, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
For the Crumb Topping
- Flour – ½ cup (62.5 g); it forms the base of the topping.
- Brown Sugar – ⅓ cup (73.33 g); adds sweetness and extra flavor, white sugar can be used as a substitute.
- Cinnamon – 1½ teaspoons; enhances flavor, more can be added if desired.
- Pinch of Salt; balances sweetness and enhances flavor, use the same amount as suggested.
- Butter – 4 tablespoons, soft; it binds the topping, ensuring it’s soft (but not melted) is essential.
For the Glaze
- Powdered Sugar – 1 cup; provides sweetness and texture—adjust for desired thickness.
- Cinnamon – to taste; optional for adding depth of flavor.
- Milk – 1-2 tablespoons; used to thin out the glaze, choose any milk or dairy-free alternative.
These delightful coffee cake cookies are sure to bring joy with every bite!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Coffee Cake Cookies with Crumb Topping
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining two baking sheets with parchment paper. This will ensure your cookies don’t stick and bake evenly. A good preparation sets the stage for your delightful coffee cake cookies, as the warm oven helps them rise perfectly.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a stand mixer, combine ½ cup of unsalted butter with ½ cup of brown sugar and ¼ cup of granulated sugar. Beat the mixture on medium-high speed for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes light and fluffy, visually doubling in volume. This step is crucial for achieving the cookies’ chewy texture.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Next, add 1 large room temperature egg, 1 egg yolk, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Lower the mixer speed to combine the ingredients until fully incorporated. This should take about 1 minute. Watching the batter smooth out indicates it’s time for the next steps!
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually mix in the dry ingredients—½ teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of salt, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1¾ cups of all-purpose flour. Mix on low speed until just combined, ensuring not to overmix as the texture of your coffee cake cookies is key.
Step 5: Scoop the Dough
Using a 3-tablespoon cookie scoop or your hands, scoop the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing each cookie about 2 inches apart. Create an indentation in the center of each dough ball using the back of the scoop or your fingers. This will hold the crumb topping and let the flavors blend beautifully.
Step 6: Make the Crumb Topping
In a separate bowl, mix ½ cup of flour, ⅓ cup of brown sugar, 1½ teaspoons of cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Add 4 tablespoons of softened butter and blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This crumb topping will provide the crunch that perfectly complements the softness of your cookies.
Step 7: Add the Topping
Evenly distribute the crumb topping over each cookie’s indentation, pressing gently to ensure they stick. The crumb topping will bake into a delightful crust, enhancing the flavors of your cinnamon coffee cake cookies. This step is what distinguishes them with a special touch!
Step 8: Bake
Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 9-12 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown. Keep an eye on them, as visual cues will help determine when they’re done. The scent filling your kitchen will be a rewarding sign that these coffee cake cookies are almost ready.
Step 9: Cool and Prepare the Glaze
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheets. Meanwhile, prepare the glaze by mixing together 1 cup of powdered sugar, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and 1-2 tablespoons of milk in a small bowl until desired consistency is reached. This sweet glaze adds a beautiful finish to your cookies.
Step 10: Drizzle and Serve
Once the cookies are cool, drizzle the cinnamon glaze generously over them. This final touch transforms your cinnamon coffee cake cookies into a delectable treat, perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own. The combination of flavors and textures will surely make these cookies a new favorite!
What to Serve with Cinnamon Coffee Cake Cookies
As you savor the aroma of freshly baked cookies, it’s the perfect time to think about delightful pairings that will elevate your treat to a memorable dessert experience.
- Freshly Brewed Coffee: The classic match! Rich coffee balances the sweetness of the cookies and enhances the inviting flavors of cinnamon.
- Hot Chocolate: A creamy cup makes for a wonderful, cozy pairing that transforms your afternoon snack into a warm embrace.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Scoop some on the side for a delightful contrast, the cold vanilla melting perfectly to complement the warm cookies.
- Seasonal Fruit Salad: Fresh berries or sliced apples add a vibrant, tart element that refreshes your palate after each sugary bite.
- Chai Tea: The spiced warmth of chai complements the cinnamon, creating a soothing tea-time experience perfect for chilly evenings.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: For those with a sweet tooth, a dollop on top adds an extra layer of richness that’ll have you coming back for more!
Whether enjoyed alone or in the company of loved ones, these variations will turn your coffee cake cookies into an unforgettable treat!
Expert Tips for Coffee Cake Cookies
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your egg and egg yolk are at room temperature as this ensures better mixing, leading to a softer texture in your coffee cake cookies.
- Chill the Butter: Use chilled or slightly softened butter to prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking; an overly soft butter can lead to flat cookies.
- Weigh Your Ingredients: For consistent results, weigh your flour instead of measuring it by volume; spooning it directly into measuring cups can compact it and lead to dry cookies.
- Mixing Precautions: Avoid overmixing when incorporating dry ingredients; this helps maintain the ideal chewy texture that makes your coffee cake cookies irresistible.
- Customize Wisely: Feel free to add favorite mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips, but remember to adjust the dough accordingly so they don’t overpower the texture of your cookies.
- Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-friendly version, swap out all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend; this will still deliver a delightful baked good!
Coffee Cake Cookies Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists to make these cookies truly your own!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a tasty option everyone can enjoy. These cookies will maintain their delightful chewiness without the gluten!
- Nutty Delight: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough for a delightful crunch that complements the soft cookie texture. The nutty flavor enhances the overall experience, offering a comforting twist.
- Chocolate Chip Twist: Mix in ½ cup of chocolate chips to the dough for a pleasingly sweet surprise. The combination of chocolate with cinnamon creates a rich, indulgent treat that’s hard to resist!
- Reduced Sugar: Lower the granulated sugar to 2 tablespoons if you want a less sweet cookie without sacrificing texture. This modification helps highlight the flavors of the cinnamon and crumb topping.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ginger to the dough for a warm, spicy kick that will elevate your cookie experience. It’s a fun way to explore flavors and bring warmth to those chilly days!
- Cinnamon Roll Style: Roll out the dough and spread a cinnamon-sugar mixture over it before rolling it into a log and slicing it into rounds to bake. You’ll enjoy the flavors reminiscent of a classic cinnamon roll!
- Powdered Sugar Finish: Instead of glazing, dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar for a simpler yet equally delightful finish. This easy alternative still adds a touch of sweetness without overwhelming the cookie.
- Zesty Citrus: Add 1 tablespoon of orange or lemon zest into the dough for a bright, citrusy brightness that cuts through the sweetness. Citrus complements the cinnamon splendidly!
If you’re on the lookout for more delicious cookies, be sure to try my Soft Batch Cookies or indulge in some Caramel Cheesecake Cookies. Each recipe offers unique flavors, making your baking adventures ever more exciting!
How to Store and Freeze Coffee Cake Cookies
Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their chewy texture and delightful flavors.
Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Just make sure to let them come to room temperature before enjoying for the best taste.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container where they’ll keep well for up to 2-3 months.
Dough Storage: Unbaked cookie dough can be refrigerated for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze the shaped, unbaked dough balls in a container for up to 3 months; bake directly from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnamon Coffee Cake Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply scoop the dough onto your baking sheets and cover them with plastic wrap before refrigerating. You can also make the crumb topping ahead of time by mixing the ingredients and storing them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just assemble the cookies with the crumb topping and bake as directed. This method not only saves you time on busy weeknights but ensures your coffee cake cookies are just as delicious and freshly baked!
Cinnamon Coffee Cake Cookies with Crumb Topping Recipe FAQs
What kind of butter should I use for these cookies?
Absolutely, using unsalted butter is my go-to! It allows for better control over the saltiness of your cookies and contributes to a rich flavor. If you only have salted butter, just reduce the added salt in the recipe by about ¼ teaspoon.
How should I store my coffee cake cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’re looking to preserve them for longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days or freeze them in a single layer for up to 2-3 months. Just remember to allow them to fully cool before storage!
Can I freeze the dough or the cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked cookie dough. Shape the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet to freeze until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, you can directly place them in the oven, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. For the baked cookies, cool them first, then store in a freezer-safe bag or container.
What if my cookies spread too much during baking?
Very common! This typically happens if the butter is too soft. To prevent this, I recommend using chilled or slightly softened butter instead of melted. Also, measuring flour accurately is crucial—spoon it into the measuring cups lightly rather than packing it down!
Are these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can definitely enjoy these cookies gluten-free! Simply substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, and they’ll still have the delightful texture and flavor you’re looking for. Always check your blend for best results and adjust any additional ingredients as necessary.
Can these cookies be made dairy-free?
Absolutely! For a dairy-free version, replace the butter with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute. Additionally, opt for a dairy-free milk for the glaze, ensuring everyone can delight in these delicious cookies!
Heavenly Coffee Cake Cookies with Cinnamon Crumb Topping
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a stand mixer, combine the unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Beat on medium-high for 3-4 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Lower the mixer speed and combine until fully incorporated.
- Gradually mix in the baking powder, baking soda, salt, cornstarch, cinnamon, and all-purpose flour until just combined.
- Scoop the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart and create an indentation in the center.
- In a separate bowl, mix the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Add softened butter and blend until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Distribute the crumb topping evenly over the cookies' indentation, pressing gently.
- Bake for 9-12 minutes, or until edges are golden brown.
- Let cookies cool completely on the baking sheets. Prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and milk until desired consistency.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies.
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