There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house. It takes me back to my childhood, where every Sunday was a baking day with my mom. Today, I want to share a delightful recipe that combines two of my favorite flavors: cinnamon and coffee. These Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles are not just cookies; they’re a warm hug in dessert form. Perfect for a quick treat after a long day or to impress friends at your next gathering, these cookies are sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles
These Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles are a game-changer for any home cook. They’re incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. The rich flavors of cinnamon and coffee create a delightful taste that’s hard to resist. Plus, the crinkly tops and powdered sugar coating give them a charming appearance. You’ll find yourself reaching for these cookies again and again, whether for a cozy night in or a sweet surprise for guests.
Ingredients for Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles. Here’s what you’ll need:
All-purpose flour: The backbone of any cookie, providing structure and chewiness.
Baking powder: This leavening agent helps the cookies rise and become fluffy.
Baking soda: Another leavening agent that adds a bit of lift and helps with browning.
Salt: A pinch enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Ground cinnamon: The star of the show, adding warmth and a cozy aroma.
Unsweetened cocoa powder: This gives the cookies a rich chocolate flavor, complementing the coffee.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and helps create that lovely crinkle effect.
Brown sugar: Adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor, making the cookies chewy.
Unsalted butter: Provides richness and helps bind the ingredients together.
Large eggs: Essential for structure and moisture, giving the cookies a tender crumb.
Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor profile.
Brewed coffee: This is where the magic happens! It infuses the cookies with a deep coffee flavor.
Powdered sugar: For rolling the cookie dough balls, adding a sweet, snowy finish.
For those looking to mix things up, consider adding chocolate chips for an extra layer of flavor. If you prefer a stronger coffee taste, espresso can be a fantastic substitute for brewed coffee. You can find the exact measurements for these ingredients at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part: making these delightful Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of cookies that will impress everyone.
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookies bake evenly. While the oven warms up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. This step is crucial as it evenly distributes the leavening agents and spices. Set this mixture aside for now; it’ll come into play shortly.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Use an electric mixer or a sturdy wooden spoon to beat them until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air, giving your cookies that perfect texture.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Coffee
Next, beat in the eggs one at a time. Then, add the vanilla extract and cooled brewed coffee. Mix until everything is well combined. The coffee adds a rich depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want your cookies to be tender and soft, not tough.
Step 6: Chill the Dough
Now, it’s time to chill the dough. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Chilling makes the dough easier to handle and helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
Step 7: Shape and Coat
Once the dough is chilled, scoop tablespoon-sized portions and roll them into balls. Then, roll each ball in powdered sugar until fully coated. This gives your cookies that signature snowy finish and adds a touch of sweetness.
Step 8: Bake
Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops are crinkled. Let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. Enjoy the heavenly aroma filling your kitchen!
Tips for Success
Make sure your butter is softened for easy creaming; it should be at room temperature.
Don’t skip the chilling step; it helps the cookies hold their shape and enhances flavor.
Use a cookie scoop for uniform dough balls, ensuring even baking.
Keep an eye on the baking time; cookies can go from perfect to overbaked quickly.
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Equipment Needed
Mixing bowls: A set of various sizes is ideal; you can use any large bowl if needed.
Electric mixer: A hand mixer works great, but a whisk and some elbow grease will do.
Baking sheets: Use any flat baking tray; just line it with parchment paper.
Cookie scoop: A tablespoon works well if you don’t have one.
Wire racks: If you don’t have these, a plate will suffice for cooling.
Variations
Nutty Delight: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture that complements the soft cookies.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
Spicy Twist: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or nutmeg for an unexpected kick that pairs well with the cinnamon.
Vegan Version: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and use coconut oil instead of butter.
Chocolate Lovers: Mix in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips or chunks for a rich, decadent treat that enhances the cocoa flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles with a hot cup of coffee or a creamy latte for a delightful afternoon treat.
Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
For a festive touch, arrange them on a decorative platter dusted with extra powdered sugar.
FAQs about Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles
As you embark on your baking adventure with these delightful Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles, you might have a few questions. Here are some common queries that can help you along the way:
Can I use instant coffee instead of brewed coffee?
Absolutely! Instant coffee can work in a pinch. Just dissolve it in a bit of hot water to mimic brewed coffee’s flavor.
How do I store leftover cookies?
Keep your Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for about a week—if they last that long!
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes! You can freeze the dough before rolling it in powdered sugar. Just scoop the dough balls onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake straight from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the baking time.
What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?
If you’re looking for an egg substitute, try using flaxseed meal mixed with water or unsweetened applesauce. Each egg can be replaced with 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water or 1/4 cup of applesauce.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Definitely! Just swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it’s a 1:1 substitute for the best results.
Final Thoughts
Creating these Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles is more than just baking; it’s about crafting memories and sharing joy. The moment you pull them from the oven, the warm, inviting aroma fills your kitchen, wrapping you in a cozy embrace. Each bite offers a delightful blend of flavors that dance on your palate, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them solo with a cup of coffee or sharing them with loved ones, these cookies are sure to bring smiles. So, roll up your sleeves and let the magic of baking transform your day!
Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles are delicious cookies that combine the rich flavors of cinnamon and coffee, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup brewed coffee, cooled
1 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract and cooled brewed coffee, mixing until well combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
Chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
Once chilled, scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Roll each ball in powdered sugar until fully coated.
Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops are crinkled. Let cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Notes
For a richer flavor, try adding 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the dough before chilling.
You can also substitute the brewed coffee with espresso for a stronger coffee flavor.
