Coffee Cake Cookies Recipe

If you love the cozy flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and that irresistible crumbly topping but want something handheld and easy to share, the Coffee Cake Cookies Recipe might just become your new favorite treat. These cookies capture all the warmth and sweetness of classic coffee cake, turning it into a soft, tender cookie with a delightful crumb topping that gives every bite that perfect balance of texture. Whether for an afternoon snack or a morning pick-me-up with your coffee, these cookies are downright addictive and wonderfully simple to make.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to baking these delightful cookies, and you’ll find they’re made up of simple pantry staples that each play a crucial role in the final taste and texture. From the rich butter that provides a tender crumb, to the warming spices that bring out that coffee cake feel, every item is essential for baking success.

• Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): Adds richness and a velvety texture to the cookies.
• Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the dough and helps create a tender crumb.
• Light brown sugar (1/2 cup packed + 1 cup packed for topping): Offers moisture and a subtle molasses flavor.
• Large eggs (2): Bind the ingredients together while adding moisture.
• Pure vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor with a sweet aroma.
• All-purpose flour (2 3/4 cups + 1 1/2 cups for topping): Forms the foundation and structure of the cookies.
• Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Helps the cookies rise and become soft.
• Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Adds a little extra lift and lightness.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
• Ground cinnamon (1 1/2 teaspoons + 1 tablespoon for topping): Brings the quintessential coffee cake warmth and spice.
• Ground nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a subtle earthy spice note.
• Sour cream (3/4 cup): Keeps the cookies tender and moist with a slight tang.
• Milk (1/4 cup): Helps to achieve the perfect dough consistency.

How to Make Coffee Cake Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Surface

Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure even baking. This step makes clean-up easy and gives your cookies a beautiful base to bake on.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2 to 3 minutes with a mixer. This creaming incorporates air for tender cookies and ensures the sugars begin to dissolve for a smooth texture.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

One at a time, add the eggs to the butter and sugar mixture, beating well after each addition to keep everything smooth and emulsified. Then stir in the vanilla extract. These steps ensure the dough will have a nice structure and that warm vanilla flavor throughout.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients Separately

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Combining these dry ingredients separately prevents lumps and evenly distributes the spices for a consistent taste.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the sour cream and milk. Make sure to start and finish with the dry ingredients, and mix just until combined to avoid overworking the dough, which could make your cookies tough instead of soft and tender.

Step 6: Prepare the Crumb Topping

Mix the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a medium bowl. Pour the melted butter over this mixture and stir until a crumbly texture forms. This topping is what makes these cookies shine and gives them that nostalgic coffee cake crunch.

Step 7: Scoop Your Cookies

Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop spoonfuls of dough about 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheet. Giving each cookie space lets them bake evenly and prevents them from sticking together.

Step 8: Add the Crumb Topping

Generously sprinkle the crumb topping over each cookie, pressing it gently so it sticks. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect coffee cake appearance and taste in every bite.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Bake your cookies for 12 to 15 minutes until the edges are lightly golden and the crumb topping looks set and slightly crisp. Keep an eye on them as baking times can vary depending on your oven.

Step 10: Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for at least 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling helps them firm up just a bit so they hold together without falling apart when you pick them up.

How to Serve Coffee Cake Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and a hint of extra sweetness that pairs beautifully with the spices in the cookies. If you want to get fancy, a light drizzle of vanilla glaze brings out even more comforting flavor.

Side Dishes

These cookies are wonderful alongside a warm cup of coffee, chai tea, or even a glass of milk for a classic pairing. You can also serve them with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream for a light dessert.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking these cookies with layers of cream cheese frosting in between for an irresistible cookie sandwich treat. Alternatively, arrange them on a decorative platter with sprigs of fresh mint or cinnamon sticks for a charming coffee break display.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should remain soft and delicious for up to 5 days, making them perfect for making ahead for gatherings or just to satisfy your sweet tooth throughout the week.

Freezing

You can freeze these coffee cake cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. This prevents them from sticking together and keeps them fresh for up to 3 months.

Reheating

To enjoy your frozen or stored cookies warm, microwave them for 10-15 seconds or warm them in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes. The warmth brings out the cozy coffee cake flavors beautifully and softens the crumb topping just right.

FAQs

Can I make the crumb topping gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour in the crumb topping with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. This swap maintains the texture and flavor while keeping the cookies gluten-free.

Is it possible to use yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes, plain Greek yogurt works as a wonderful substitute for sour cream and will provide similar moisture and tang without compromising the cookie’s texture.

How do I make these cookies dairy-free?

To make the Coffee Cake Cookies Recipe dairy-free, swap the butter for a vegan butter alternative and use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. The cookies will still turn out deliciously tender and flavorful.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Definitely! Adding chopped pecans or walnuts enhances the texture with some crunch, while mixing in chocolate chips adds a sweet twist that pairs amazingly with the cinnamon and nutmeg.

What causes the cookies to spread too much?

If your cookies are spreading too much, it could be that your butter is too soft or the dough is too warm. Try chilling your dough in the fridge for 30 minutes before scooping and baking to help the cookies hold their shape better.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly comforting about a cookie that tastes like your favorite coffee cake, and this Coffee Cake Cookies Recipe truly delivers on that promise. With every bite offering a tender crumb, a perfect crumb topping, and those warm spices, these cookies will quickly find a special place in your baking rotation. Give them a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy coffee cake!

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