Name: Coffee Cake Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup all purpose flour; 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed; 2 tsp cinnamon; Pinch of salt; 5 Tbsp unsalted butter, softened; 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 unsalted butter, 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 extract; Pinch of salt

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 2 reviews

I have to tell you how much I adore this Coffee Cake Cookies Recipe. To me, these cookies perfectly capture the warm, comforting flavor of a classic coffee cake but in a portable, bite-sized form that’s absolutely irresistible. Every bite offers a delightful swirl of cinnamon-spiced streusel and a tender, buttery dough that feels like a cozy hug. I’ve made these cookies countless times and they never fail to impress, whether I’m sharing them with friends or indulging in a quiet moment with a cup of coffee.

Why You’ll Love This Coffee Cake Cookies Recipe

What makes this Coffee Cake Cookies Recipe stand out for me is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The cinnamon-spiced streusel creates this amazing crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft, buttery cookie underneath. It’s sweet but not overly so, and that hit of cinnamon gives it just enough warmth to feel like fall, no matter what time of year it is. I love how each cookie has that little well filled with streusel—it’s a charming detail that feels so special.

Another reason I’m crazy about this recipe is how straightforward it is to prepare. Even though it looks fancy, the ingredients are simple and the method is easy to follow. I especially appreciate how quickly these cookies come together, meaning I don’t have to wait long for a wonderful treat. Plus, they’re perfect for so many occasions—weekend brunches, casual coffee breaks, holiday gatherings, or even giving as little homemade gifts. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be hooked!

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up image of cookie dough in a shiny silver mixing bowl, with a wooden spoon partly buried in the dough. The dough is light brown, thick, and has a slightly rough texture, showing it is soft but firm. The shiny metal bowl reflects light, and the background is a white marble surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are so simple yet essential for getting the perfect flavor and texture in this Coffee Cake Cookies Recipe. Each one plays a vital role, from creating the tender crumb to the delightful cinnamon flavor and the crunchy streusel topping.

All-purpose flour: Provides the structure for the cookies and the streusel, creating that satisfying bite.
Brown sugar: Adds sweetness and moisture with a rich, caramel-like depth.
Cinnamon: The star spice that gives the cookies their signature warming flavor.
Salt: Balances and enhances all the sweet and spicy notes.
Softened and cold butter: Key to achieving that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture in both dough and streusel.
Cake flour: Helps make the cookies soft and delicate, giving them that perfect crumb.
Cornstarch: Adds tenderness and a slight chewiness to the dough.
Baking soda and baking powder: Working together to give the cookies a gentle lift without puffing up too much.
Granulated sugar: Provides crispness and structure in the cookie dough.
Vanilla extract: Adds depth and a sweet aroma that complements the cinnamon.
Egg and egg yolk: Helps bind the dough and increase richness.
Heavy cream or milk: Gives the cookies a moist, tender crumb.
Powdered sugar: Used for making the smooth, sweet icing that finishes the cookies beautifully.

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the streusel filling by combining the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt in a medium bowl. Then work in the softened butter with your fingers until you have small clumps. Pop this mixture into the fridge while you work on the dough; this chilling step helps maintain the crumbly texture.

Step 2: Preheat your oven to 400°F (about 200°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. This setup ensures your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick.

Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients for the dough: all purpose flour, cake flour, cornstarch, cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This creates the perfect base for your cookies.

Step 4: Using a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream the cubed cold butter along with both sugars until smooth and creamy, which should take around 1 to 2 minutes. This process aerates the mixture, helping with texture and moisture.

Step 5: Add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract to your butter mixture, blending until everything is fully combined. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula to make sure nothing is left behind.

Step 6: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, a quarter cup at a time, mixing until each addition is just incorporated. This method keeps the dough tender and prevents overmixing.

Step 7: Scoop the dough into approximately 8 large balls for chunky cookies or 22-24 smaller ones if you prefer bite-sized treats. Place them on your prepared baking sheets, leaving enough room between each.

Step 8: Using your thumb or the end of a spoon, create an indentation in the center of each cookie. I like to dust the tool lightly with flour so it doesn’t stick to the dough, which makes the process smoother.

Step 9: Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the chilled streusel filling into each cookie’s well. Then bake them for 8 to 11 minutes, watching for the edges to set and get a slight golden touch. Remember they’ll continue to firm up as they cool, so pull them out just before you think they’re done.

Step 10: For perfectly round cookies, immediately after taking them out of the oven, gently swirl each cookie inside a cookie cutter or a drinking glass slightly larger than the cookie. This spins the dough into shape while it’s still pliable.

Step 11: Let your cookies rest on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them carefully to a cooling rack. This cooling period lets the cookies firm up and makes handling easier.

Step 12: Whisk together the powdered sugar, vanilla, heavy cream (or milk), and a pinch of salt until smooth to make the icing. Once your cookies are completely cool, drizzle the icing on top, adding a final sweet and creamy touch that’s utterly delightful.

Servings and Timing

This Coffee Cake Cookies Recipe yields about 8 large cookies or 22-24 smaller ones, perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself if you’re feeling indulgent. It takes roughly 10 minutes to prep the dough and streusel, then a short 8 to 11 minute bake time per batch. Including cooling and chilling time, plan for about 25 minutes total from start to finish. These cookies are quick to make, which is great when you want something cozy but don’t want to wait all day!

How to Serve This Coffee Cake Cookies Recipe

A single round cookie sits at the center of a white plate with textured edges. The cookie has a light golden-brown color with a crumbly topping in the middle made of darker brown crumbles. White icing is drizzled over the cookie and the crumbly topping in thin, uneven lines. Small crumbs are scattered around the cookie on the plate and the white marbled surface beneath. In the top left corner, part of another cookie with similar topping and icing is visible on a golden wire rack. A white flower lies next to the wire rack on the white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

I love serving these cookies slightly warm so the streusel filling is still soft and comforting. They pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea—perfect for breakfast or an afternoon break. If you’re hosting friends, a platter of these cookies alongside some fresh fruit and savory cheese can create a well-rounded, tantalizing spread.

For presentation, I like to arrange them on a rustic wooden board or a simple white plate to let the cinnamon-speckled streusel really shine. Drizzling the icing just before serving gives an elegant finish and adds a bit of luscious sweetness that guests always appreciate. Plus, a light dusting of cinnamon or a sprinkle of chopped nuts on top can elevate the look effortlessly.

If you’re thinking of pairing drinks, an iced latte or even a lightly spiced mulled wine during cooler months complement the flavors wonderfully. For more casual occasions, a cold glass of milk or a cinnamon-spiced hot chocolate turns these cookies into the ultimate comfort dessert. They’re versatile enough for holiday parties, weekend brunches, or casual treats after dinner, served room temperature or warmed up.

Variations

I love experimenting with this Coffee Cake Cookies Recipe to suit different tastes or dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, I swap the all-purpose and cake flours for a high-quality gluten-free flour blend, which still gives the cookies a tender crumb. Vegan friends can replace the butter with coconut oil and use a flax egg instead; the result is surprisingly similar and just as delicious.

If you want to add more flavor twists, consider mixing chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the streusel for extra crunch. You could also swirl in some cream cheese into the cookie dough for a tangy contrast that reminds me of a luscious cheesecake-styled coffee cake. For a fruitier variation, try stirring in small bits of dried cherries or raisins, which add bursts of sweetness.

Cooking method-wise, baking these as mini muffins or bar cookies can be fun too, especially if you want a portable snack with a bit more heft. No matter the method or tweak, I always recommend using high-quality vanilla and fresh cinnamon—those little details really make a difference in elevating the flavor.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying these cookies, I usually store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps them fresh for about 3 to 4 days, ensuring the dough stays soft while the streusel remains delightfully crumbly. Placing a piece of parchment paper between layers helps prevent sticking and keeps them looking pretty.

Freezing

Yes, you can absolutely freeze these coffee cake cookies! I recommend freezing them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transferring them to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag once solid. This prevents them from sticking together. Frozen cookies keep well for up to 2 months and are a perfect make-ahead treat for busy days.

Reheating

To reheat, I prefer warming the cookies gently in a low oven (around 300°F or 150°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore that freshly baked texture and to soften the streusel topping nicely. Avoid microwaving if you can, as it can make the cookies soggy or tough. A quick warm-up on a cookie sheet preserves their crunch and buttery flavor best.

FAQs

Can I make the streusel filling in advance?

Absolutely! The streusel mixture can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 2 days ahead. Just keep it covered tightly and pull it out when you’re ready to assemble the cookies. This really helps speed up the baking process when you’re short on time.

What’s the difference between using cake flour and all-purpose flour in this recipe?

Cake flour has a lower protein content which makes baked goods tender and delicate. Using a mix of cake flour and all-purpose flour in this recipe achieves a soft, crumbly texture without sacrificing structure, resulting in cookies that are tender yet hold their shape beautifully.

Can I skip the icing or use a different topping?

Definitely! The icing adds a lovely sweetness and finish, but the cookies are delicious on their own or dusted with a little powdered sugar. You could also drizzle melted chocolate or a simple caramel sauce for a fun twist.

Is it possible to make smaller or larger cookies with this recipe?

Yes, the dough is very versatile. I often make smaller bite-sized cookies for parties or larger ones when I want a more indulgent treat. Just adjust baking time accordingly—smaller cookies need less time, and larger ones a bit more.

How do I keep the cookies from spreading too much during baking?

Using cold butter cubed directly in the dough and chilling the streusel helps prevent excessive spreading. Also, don’t over-mix once you add the dry ingredients. Baking the cookies on parchment or silicone mats at 400°F helps them set quickly with slightly crisp edges.

Conclusion

I hope you’re as excited to try this Coffee Cake Cookies Recipe as I am to share it with you. It’s genuinely one of my all-time favorite treats because of its perfect balance of cozy coffee cake flavors in a fun, portable cookie form. Whether you are baking for yourself, friends, or family, these cookies deliver warmth and comfort in every bite. Give them a go—I promise they’ll become a beloved staple in your recipe collection!