The Ultimate Coffee Cake Cookies Recipe – A Thanksgiving Dessert Everyone Will Love
When the holiday season rolls around, most people think of pies, cakes, and traditional festive treats. But what if you could take the cozy flavors of a classic coffee cake and transform them into soft, chewy cookies? That’s where Coffee Cake Cookies come in—a perfect fusion of buttery cookies, cinnamon swirl, and crumbly streusel topping.
This recipe isn’t just another cookie—it’s a Thanksgiving dessert that brings comfort, nostalgia, and indulgence in every bite. Whether you’re hosting family, attending a potluck, or baking gifts for neighbors, these cookies will steal the show.
Why Coffee Cake Cookies?
Classic coffee cake is known for its tender crumb, sweet cinnamon ribbon, and iconic streusel topping. But during the holidays, people often prefer smaller, hand-held treats that are easy to serve and share. Cookies check both boxes—portable and portion-controlled.
By combining the best of both worlds, you get:
- A buttery cookie base that’s soft but sturdy.
- A cinnamon-sugar swirl reminiscent of classic coffee cake layers.
- A crumbly streusel topping that adds crunch and sweetness.
- A drizzle of vanilla glaze for the finishing touch.
It’s basically coffee cake in cookie form—without needing a fork.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to bring these cookies to life:
For the Cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
For the Streusel Topping:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp milk (or heavy cream for richer glaze)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cream the Butter & Sugar – In a large mixing bowl, beat together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Wet Ingredients – Mix in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
- Combine Dry Ingredients – In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Slowly add to the wet mixture until dough forms.
- Make the Cinnamon Swirl – Mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.
- Prepare the Streusel – Combine flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter until crumbly.
- Shape the Cookies – Scoop cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Slightly flatten each scoop with your palm.
- Add Cinnamon & Streusel – Sprinkle cinnamon-sugar mixture over each cookie, then press streusel topping gently into the dough.
- Bake – Bake for 10–12 minutes, until edges are set and tops are golden. Let cool completely.
- Drizzle Glaze – Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla. Drizzle over cooled cookies.
- Serve & Enjoy – Arrange on a festive platter and serve with coffee, tea, or warm cider.
Tips for Perfect Coffee Cake Cookies
- Don’t Overbake: They should be soft in the center—cookies continue to set as they cool.
- Chill the Dough: If your dough feels sticky, chill it for 20–30 minutes before shaping.
- Make Ahead Friendly: Dough can be frozen for up to 2 months; just bake straight from the freezer with an extra minute or two.
- Extra Glaze? Drizzle on top just before serving for the ultimate bakery-style look.
Serving Ideas for Thanksgiving
- On the Dessert Table: Serve alongside pumpkin pie, pecan pie, and apple crisp for variety.
- With Coffee or Tea: These cookies pair perfectly with spiced chai, hot cider, or black coffee.
- As Party Favors: Wrap a few cookies in parchment and twine for thoughtful homemade gifts.
Coffee Cake Cookies Recipe – Thanksgiving Dessert
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract.
- Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Slowly add to wet mixture until combined.
- Mix cinnamon and brown sugar for the swirl. Prepare streusel by combining flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter until crumbly.
- Scoop cookie dough onto baking sheets and flatten slightly. Sprinkle with cinnamon swirl and press streusel on top.
- Bake 10–12 minutes until edges are set. Cool completely.
- Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla for glaze. Drizzle over cooled cookies before serving.
Notes
Variations to Try
- Maple Streusel Cookies: Swap cinnamon for maple syrup and a pinch of nutmeg.
- Pumpkin Spice Version: Add 1/4 cup pumpkin puree to the dough and adjust flour slightly.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts into the streusel for added texture.
Conclusion
Thanksgiving is all about comfort, flavor, and sharing moments with loved ones. These Coffee Cake Cookies capture the essence of fall in a portable, indulgent treat that’s sure to become a family favorite.
With their soft centers, crumbly tops, and sweet drizzle, they’re the perfect addition to your holiday baking lineup. Try them once, and you’ll find yourself making them long after the Thanksgiving leftovers are gone.
