I’ve combined two of my favorite desserts into one and made these dreamy coffee cake cookies. They’re made with a cinnamon sugar cookie, filled with a buttery streusel, and a drizzle of powdered sugar icing on top. Enjoy with a cup of warm coffee and get ready to fall in love with your new favorite cookie!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and brown sugar creates a warm, inviting taste that you won’t forget.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps, these cookies can be whipped up in no time, making them perfect for beginner bakers.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or an afternoon treat, these cookies fit right in.
- Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as is or customize with your favorite nuts or chocolate chips for added crunch.
- Impressive Presentation: The drizzle of icing gives these cookies a beautiful finish that will impress your guests.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
- Rubber spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: This makes creaming butter and sugars easy, ensuring a light texture for your cookie dough.
- Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes allows you to easily prepare different components of the recipe without mixing flavors prematurely.

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
- 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter, melted
- 3 Tbsp. heavy cream or milk
For the Icing:
- 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. Then work in the butter until small clumps form (I just use my fingers to work it together). Refrigerate.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. Set aside.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour, cake flour, cornstarch, cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars
Place the cubed butter and sugars into the bowl of a stand mixer with the paddle attachment secured. Turn on the mixer and cream until smooth for about 1–2 minutes.
Step 5: Add Wet Ingredients
Add in the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract; blend until mixed well. Use a rubber spatula to scrape down any mixture sticking to the sides of the bowl and mix again briefly.
Step 6: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add in the dry ingredients about 1/4 cup at a time while mixing until fully incorporated.
Step 7: Shape Cookie Dough
Scoop out cookie dough into ~8 large balls (or smaller if preferred; you can get about 22–24 cookies). Place these on prepared baking sheets.
Step 8: Create Indents for Filling
Make an indent in each cookie using your thumb or another tool like a spatula handle (dipped in flour to prevent sticking).
Step 9: Fill Cookies with Streusel
Spoon about 1 tablespoon of streusel filling into each cookie indent and bake for approximately 8–11 minutes or until edges appear set and slightly golden.
Step 10: Perfect Circles (Optional)
Immediately after removing from the oven, place a circular cookie cutter around each cookie (it should be larger than the cookie) and give it a spin to create perfectly circular cookies.
Step 11: Cool Cookies
Let cookies rest on the sheet for ~5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
Step 12: Drizzle Icing
Whisk together icing ingredients; once cooled, drizzle over cookies before serving!
Enjoy your delightful Coffee Cake Cookies!
How to Serve Coffee Cake Cookies
Coffee cake cookies are a delightful treat that pairs wonderfully with various beverages and desserts. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your coffee cake cookie experience.
With a Cup of Coffee
- Enjoy these cookies with a freshly brewed cup of coffee for a perfect morning or afternoon snack.
As Part of a Dessert Platter
- Arrange cookies alongside other baked goods like brownies and mini muffins for an enticing dessert spread at gatherings.
With Ice Cream
- Serve warm coffee cake cookies with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream for a deliciously indulgent dessert.
Drizzled with Extra Icing
- For those who love sweetness, add an extra drizzle of powdered sugar icing over the cookies just before serving.
Paired with Fresh Berries
- Fresh strawberries or blueberries add a refreshing contrast to the sugary cookies, making them even more delectable.
How to Perfect Coffee Cake Cookies
Perfecting coffee cake cookies is all about attention to detail and the right techniques. Here are some tips to elevate your baking game.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure that your flour, baking powder, and spices are fresh for optimal flavor and texture.
- Chill the Dough: Allowing the cookie dough to chill for 30 minutes can improve the texture, making your cookies thicker and chewier.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix only until combined when adding dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
- Bake in Batches: Baking one tray at a time ensures even heat distribution, resulting in perfectly baked cookies.
- Watch Your Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake; removing them slightly underdone will give you soft, chewy centers.
- Store Properly: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Coffee Cake Cookies
Pairing side dishes with coffee cake cookies can create a delightful meal or snack experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.
-
Fruit Salad
A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness, balancing the sweetness of the cookies. -
Yogurt Parfait
Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a creamy, crunchy accompaniment that complements the cookie’s flavors. -
Cheese Platter
A selection of mild cheeses can provide savory contrast, enhancing your overall tasting experience. -
Spiced Tea
A warm cup of spiced tea can complement the cinnamon flavors in your coffee cake cookies beautifully. -
Granola Bars
Homemade granola bars offer a chewy texture that pairs well alongside coffee cake cookies for added energy. -
Chocolate Milkshake
Indulge by pairing these treats with a rich chocolate milkshake—a sweet match made in heaven! -
Nut Mix
A bowl of lightly salted mixed nuts provides crunch and saltiness that balances the sweetness of the cookies nicely. -
Coconut Macaroons
These chewy treats echo the comforting flavors of cinnamon and sugar while adding variety to your dessert table.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Coffee Cake Cookies, it’s easy to overlook a few details. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.
-
Boldly skip the streusel: Forgetting the streusel filling can lead to flat cookies. Always prepare and refrigerate it before starting on the dough.
-
Boldly measuring flour incorrectly: Using too much flour can make your cookies dense. Spoon and level your flour for accurate measurements.
-
Boldly overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can toughen your cookies. Stop mixing as soon as the dry ingredients are incorporated.
-
Boldly baking at the wrong temperature: Baking at an incorrect temperature can lead to uneven results. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if needed.
-
Boldly rushing the cooling process: Transferring cookies too soon can cause them to break. Allow them to set on the baking sheet for a few minutes before moving them.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing Coffee Cake Cookies
- Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
- Can be stored frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Coffee Cake Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place cookies on a baking sheet, and warm for about 5-10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat for a couple of minutes, covered with a lid.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Coffee Cake Cookies that might help you enjoy this delightful treat even more!
Can I use different types of flour for Coffee Cake Cookies?
Yes, you can experiment with different flours like whole wheat or gluten-free blends, but be aware that it may change the texture slightly.
How do I know when Coffee Cake Cookies are done?
Look for slightly golden edges and a set center; they will continue cooking after being removed from the oven.
Can I customize the flavor of my Coffee Cake Cookies?
Absolutely! You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits to tailor them to your taste preferences.
What makes these Coffee Cake Cookies special?
These cookies combine classic coffee cake flavors with cookie convenience, making them perfect for any occasion!
Final Thoughts
Coffee Cake Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. Their combination of flavors and textures makes them an ideal treat for any coffee lover. Feel free to customize with your favorite mix-ins or toppings. Give this recipe a try and enjoy these delightful cookies with your next cup of coffee!
Coffee Cake Cookies
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful fusion of flavors with our Coffee Cake Cookies. This recipe combines the comforting essence of cinnamon sugar cookies with a buttery streusel filling, topped off with a sweet powdered sugar icing. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are not only easy to make but also impressively beautiful. Serve them warm alongside your favorite coffee or as part of a dessert platter to wow your guests. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday gathering or simply treating yourself, these Coffee Cake Cookies will surely become a cherished favorite!
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 by mixing flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt in a bowl. Add softened butter until crumbly; refrigerate.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cake flour, cornstarch, cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Cream cubed butter and sugars using a stand mixer until smooth. Mix in the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla.
- Gradually incorporate dry ingredients into the wet mixture until combined.
- Scoop dough onto prepared sheets and create indents using your thumb; fill each with streusel.
- Bake for 8-11 minutes until edges are golden. Cool before drizzling with icing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 138
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Chill the dough for 30 minutes for thicker cookies. Customize with nuts or chocolate chips for added texture.




