If you’re craving a sweet treat with the comforting flavors of coffee cake, these coffee cake cookies will quickly become a favorite. They combine the rich, buttery essence of classic coffee cake with the convenience of cookies. Fluffy and delicious, they come together effortlessly and are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy breakfast with friends or an afternoon snack.
Why We Love This Coffee Cake Cookies
These coffee cake cookies capture all the delicious flavors of the traditional dessert while providing a fun twist that’s perfect for cookie lovers. The delightful blend of spices, a hint of sweet cinnamon, and a crumbly texture creates a cookie that melts in your mouth. Their cake-like softness adds to the overall enjoyment, making them perfect for pairing with your favorite beverage. You can whip them up quickly, and they stay fresh for days, making them a go-to recipe for busy schedules or unexpected guests. Plus, you can customize them with your favorite nuts or toppings, making the possibilities endless.
Ingredients for Coffee Cake Cookies
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- ½ cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the sour cream. Mix until just combined.
- If using, fold in the chopped nuts gently to avoid breaking them.
- Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will firm up as they cool.
- Remove cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
- Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar if desired before serving.
How to Serve Coffee Cake Cookies
Serving coffee cake cookies can be as simple or creative as you like. For a classic approach, present them on a tiered cookie stand or a decorative platter. Pair them with a hot cup of coffee, ensuring the warmth complements their soft texture. Alternatively, you can enjoy them alongside a chilled glass of milk or a refreshing hot beverage. For a more festive touch, sprinkle some extra cinnamon or drizzle a light icing over the cookies just before serving. These cookies also shine during gatherings, so consider serving them at brunch or as part of a dessert table for holidays and special occasions. Don’t hesitate to place them in cute bags or boxes as a thoughtful gift for loved ones, showcasing your baking skills in an affordable way.
Expert Tips for Coffee Cake Cookies
To ensure your coffee cake cookies turn out perfectly every time, keep these expert tips in mind. First, properly measuring your flour is crucial; spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife to avoid dense cookies. Using room-temperature ingredients, especially butter and eggs, helps create a smooth batter and promotes even baking. If you prefer a chewier texture, try chilling the dough for 30 minutes before scooping and baking. This will enhance flavor and structure. For added complexity, you can experiment with spices; a dash of nutmeg can elevate the overall flavor profile. Always keep an eye on the cookies as they bake, as oven temperatures may vary, and the cookies can go from golden to overdone quickly. Lastly, don’t skip the cooling time; letting them cool on the baking sheet briefly helps them set without crumbling apart.
How to Store Coffee Cake Cookies
To keep your coffee cake cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you plan to enjoy them within a few days, they will stay moist and delectable this way. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Place cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw at room temperature or warm them for a few seconds in the microwave for that fresh-baked taste.
Variations of Coffee Cake Cookies
These coffee cake cookies lend themselves to many variations, allowing you to get creative in the kitchen. For a fruitier option, add chopped apples, blueberries, or cranberries to the dough, enhancing flavor and texture. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider incorporating a touch of ground ginger or allspice. If you love nuts, play around with different types, such as walnuts, pecans, or almonds, to find your favorite combination. Chocolate lovers can mix in chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate over the finished cookies for an indulgent twist. For a breakfast-inspired cookie, try adding oats to the dough for a heartier texture. Don’t hesitate to mix and match these ideas to create a coffee cake cookie that suits your taste perfectly!
FAQ about Coffee Cake Cookies
You might have some questions as you dive into making these coffee cake cookies. One common question is, "Can I use all-purpose flour instead of cake flour?" Absolutely! All-purpose flour works great for this recipe, giving your cookies the perfect structure and texture. Another frequent inquiry is whether you can make the dough ahead of time. Yes, you can make the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Many also wonder, "What can I substitute for sour cream?" Greek yogurt can be a great alternative, providing a similar tanginess and moisture without altering the flavor much. Feel free to experiment, and enjoy making these delightful coffee cake cookies in your kitchen!
Coffee Cake Cookies
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2.5 cups all-purpose flour Spoon and level for accurate measurement.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Should be at room temperature.
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs At room temperature.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream Can substitute with Greek yogurt.
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional) Choose your favorite nuts.
- 0.5 cup powdered sugar (for dusting) Optional for garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the sour cream, mixing until just combined.
- If using, fold in the chopped nuts gently to avoid breaking them.
Baking
- Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked but will firm up as they cool.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
- Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar if desired before serving.
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