Name: Delicious Coffee Cake Cookies for Thanksgiving
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup sour cream; For Cinnamon Glaze:; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2-3 tablespoons milk; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

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🍪☕ Delicious Coffee Cake Cookies for Thanksgiving ☕🍪

1. Introduction

Imagine a warm, aromatic cookie that combines the moist crumbly texture of a traditional coffee cake with the satisfying crunch of a freshly baked treat. Coffee cake cookies are the perfect festive dessert for your Thanksgiving celebration. These easy coffee cake treats are a delicious twist on classic holiday baking, bringing together cinnamon, crumbly topping, and a sweet glaze that will leave everyone craving more.

2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ready in just 30 minutes—ideal for last-minute holiday baking
Simple ingredients with a flavorful coffee cake twist
Perfectly moist and crumbly texture with a delightful cinnamon glaze
One-bowl recipe that’s easy to make and clean up

3. Ingredient Notes

The success of these coffee cake cookies depends on quality ingredients. Use fresh, high-quality butter and real vanilla extract to enhance the flavor. For a richer taste, opt for unsalted butter, which allows you to control the salt content. Ground cinnamon is essential—it adds that classic warm, aromatic essence reminiscent of fresh-baked coffee cake. The cinnamon glaze is made with powdered sugar and a splash of milk; choose a good-quality powdered sugar for the smoothest, sweetest glaze that sets beautifully on top.

4. Kitchen Tools You Need

Using the right tools ensures your baking goes smoothly. For instance, a dependable KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer in Scorched Orange makes mixing the dough effortless and ensures a well-combined batter. An Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer by Amazon Basics is great if you want to bake cookies with a crispy edge or to experiment with air-fried versions. Also, a good set of baking sheets and silicone baking mats will help you achieve evenly baked cookies without sticking.

5. How to Make Delicious Coffee Cake Cookies for Thanksgiving

Prepare the Dough

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and ¾ cup of sugar until light and fluffy. Add 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing well. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing until just combined. The dough should be soft but manageable.

Make the Cinnamon Crumb Topping

In a small bowl, combine ½ cup of brown sugar, ½ cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and ¼ cup of melted butter. Mix until crumbly. This mixture will form the irresistible topping that gives the cookies their coffee cake character.

Assemble and Bake

Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto a lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten slightly with the back of a spoon. Sprinkle generously with the cinnamon crumb topping. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set. Your kitchen will fill with a warm, cinnamon-spiced aroma that hints at the upcoming holiday feast.

Apply the Glaze

While the cookies cool slightly, prepare the glaze by mixing 1 cup of powdered sugar with 1-2 tablespoons of milk and a splash of vanilla. Drizzle the glaze over the warm cookies for a glossy, sweet finishing touch that enhances the overall flavor and presentation.

6. Expert Tips for Success

Chill the dough for 15 minutes if it’s too soft—it helps achieve thicker, chewier cookies.
Use fresh cinnamon for the most aromatic flavor.
Press a few extra crumbs on top before baking for a crunchier topping.
Cool the cookies on a wire rack to prevent sogginess from the glaze.

7. Variations & Substitutions

For a nutty twist, add chopped pecans or walnuts into the crumb topping or dough. If you’re vegan, replace butter with coconut oil and use plant-based milk. For a dairy-free version, use coconut or almond milk and dairy-free margarine. Want a more intense cinnamon flavor? Increase the cinnamon in the crumb topping or add a pinch of ground nutmeg for extra warmth.

8. Storage & Reheating

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, gently warm them in the oven at 350°F for 5 minutes or in the microwave for 20 seconds. For crisp edges, consider reheating in an air fryer like the Ninja Air Fryer Pro Crisp & Roast 4-in-1.

9. FAQ

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix that measures 1:1 for regular flour. Be sure to check the gluten content of your baking mix.

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Chill the dough for at least 15 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies hold their shape and prevents spreading.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Absolutely. Scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to an airtight container. Bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

What is the best way to ensure a moist, crumbly texture?

Proper measurements are key—don’t overmix the dough, and avoid overbaking. Remove the cookies when they are just golden around the edges to maintain their moist crumbly quality.

10. Conclusion

These coffee cake cookies are a delightful addition to your Thanksgiving dessert table. Combining the cozy flavors of cinnamon, sweet glaze, and crumbly topping, they are sure to become a holiday favorite. Whether you’re baking for a large gathering or a cozy family treat, this recipe offers the perfect combination of ease and flavor. Happy baking and enjoy your festive holiday treats!

Delicious Coffee Cake Cookies for Thanksgiving