As I stood in my kitchen, a delightful aroma of cinnamon began to swirl, instantly transporting me to a cozy coffee shop on a chilly day. These Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles are a true labor of love, with their soft, chewy texture paired with the rich taste of coffee and warm spice. Not only are they incredibly easy to make, but they’re also a delightful crowd-pleaser—perfect for sharing with friends or indulging with your morning brew. With their signature crinkle-top and a dusting of powdered sugar, these cookies are as beautiful as they are delicious. And if you’re like me and enjoy a little customization, feel free to add a dash of nutmeg or some chocolate chips for a fun twist! Ready to discover how to bring this treat to life in your own kitchen?
Why are these cookies a must-try?
Irresistible aroma: The moment you bake these Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles, your kitchen will be filled with an inviting fragrance that screams comfort.
Soft and chewy: Each bite offers a delightful texture that’s both satisfying and flavorful, making them a perfect companion for your coffee.
Customizable delight: Experiment with spices or add chocolate chips for a mocha twist—these cookies are adaptable to your taste!
Easy to whip up: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can confidently make these delicious treats.
Perfect for sharing: Whether it’s a coffee date or a family gathering, these cookies are sure to impress everyone at the table. Try pairing them with a warm cup of tea or enjoy alongside other favorites like Apple Cinnamon Cookies for a comforting treat!
Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles Ingredients
• Get ready to bake these delightful cookies!
For the Dough
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
- Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice; no substitution suggested for flavor.
- Baking Powder – Leavens the cookies; ensure it’s fresh for best results.
- Salt – Enhances flavor; can be omitted for low-sodium diets.
- Instant Coffee Granules – Delivers robust coffee flavor; substitute with espresso powder for more intensity.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor; no substitutions recommended.
- Unsalted Butter – Contributes richness; can be replaced with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- Brown Sugar – Provides moisture and a toffee-like flavor; can be substituted with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index.
- Egg – Binds the ingredients together; a flax or chia egg can be used as a vegan substitute.
For the Coating
- Granulated Sugar (for rolling) – For sweetness and texture; can use a sugar substitute if needed.
- Powdered Sugar (for rolling) – For visual appeal and sweetness; no substitutions suggested.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles
Step 1: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt until well combined. Set this mixture aside, as it will provide the essential structure and rich flavor for your Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles.
Step 2: Mix Coffee and Vanilla
In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of instant coffee granules with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir until the coffee granules are fully dissolved, creating a flavorful coffee liquid. This will infuse your cookies with that delightful coffee kick, enhancing the overall taste of the Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat together ½ cup of melted unsalted butter and ¾ cup of brown sugar until smooth and creamy. Next, add one egg and the dissolved coffee mixture, blending until everything is well incorporated. This step adds richness and binds the ingredients together, setting the foundation for your delightful cookies.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should be soft and slightly sticky. This is where the magic happens for your Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles, as the flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 5: Chill Dough
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and refrigerate the dough for about 30 minutes. Chilling helps firm up the dough, making it easier to handle and ensuring your cookies develop those signature crinkles once baked.
Step 6: Shape Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Once the dough is chilled, use a cookie scoop or your hands to form balls about 1 inch in diameter. Roll each ball in granulated sugar, then in powdered sugar for that beautiful snowy coating.
Step 7: Bake
Arrange the sugared balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving plenty of space between them to allow for spreading. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until they have a lovely crinkle appearance and are just set. The warm aroma of your Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles will fill your kitchen!
Step 8: Cool
After baking, allow the cookies to cool on the pan for about 5 minutes. This helps them firm up before transferring. Gently lift the cookies and place them on a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, they will be soft and chewy, ready to enjoy!
Storage Tips for Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This keeps them fresh and chewy, perfect for snacking any time of day.
Fridge: If you prefer, you can keep the cookies in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, but note they may lose some softness due to the cold.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw before enjoying!
Dough: You can also freeze the cookie dough for up to 3 months. Shape the dough into balls, freeze until solid, then store in a bag. Bake from frozen, just adding a couple of minutes to the baking time for your Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles.
Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles Variations
These delightful cookies are a canvas for your creativity, inviting you to explore exciting flavors and textures!
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Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for added warmth to enhance the cozy flavor profile.
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Mocha Flavor: Stir in mini chocolate chips to blend rich chocolate with the coffee base, creating an indulgent mocha treat.
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Dairy-Free Option: Swap out regular butter for coconut oil, making them perfect for anyone avoiding dairy while maintaining that luscious taste.
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Nutty Addition: Toss in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for an extra layer of crunch and flavor, elevating the cookie experience.
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Gluten-Free Version: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a tasty treat that everyone can enjoy.
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Sugary Delight: For an extra sweet touch, roll the cookies in cinnamon sugar instead of just powdered sugar for a crispy sugary crust.
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Cocoa Swirl: Blend in a bit of cocoa powder for a chocolatey version that pairs beautifully with coffee.
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Chili Chocolate: If you’re feeling adventurous, add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle heat that compliments the chocolate and coffee.
Pair your Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles with a cup of your favorite brew, or enjoy them alongside a slice of a warm Apple Cinnamon Blondies for a sweet afternoon treat!
What to Serve with Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles?
Indulging in these soft and chewy cookies pairs beautifully with a full meal, perfect for sharing around the table or enjoying solo.
- Rich Cappuccino: The creamy froth complements the coffee notes in the cookies, creating a delightful experience for coffee lovers.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a cool, creamy contrast, making a delicious dessert combo that’s hard to resist.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad brightens up the sweetness of the cookies, providing a refreshing, healthful counterpoint.
- Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These treats enhance the dessert experience, marrying rich chocolate flavor with the spiced coffee of the cookies.
- Cheese Platter: A mix of soft cheeses adds richness and balances the sweet spice, offering a savory twist to your dessert spread.
- Nutty Biscotti: Pairing with biscotti introduces a delightful crunch, inviting textural contrast while still aligning with coffee flavors.
- Chai Tea: This spiced tea complements the cinnamon, deepening the warm, cozy vibes of the cookies with its aromatic profile.
- Almond Milk: A glass of sweet almond milk provides a light, nutty pairing that harmonizes nicely with the cookies’ coffee flavor.
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles
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Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough for at least 30 minutes makes it easier to scoop and enhances the crinkle appearance during baking.
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Avoid Overmixing: Gently combine wet and dry ingredients to prevent dense cookies. Maintain a soft, slightly sticky dough for the best texture in your Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles.
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Double Roll Effect: For a stunning sugary crust, roll the dough balls first in granulated sugar, then in powdered sugar before baking.
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Space Them Out: Leave ample space on the baking sheet to allow the cookies to spread evenly. This prevents them from sticking together during baking.
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Substitutions Matter: If you’re making these cookies dairy-free, swap out the unsalted butter for coconut oil for a delicious alternative without compromising flavor.
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow all the steps until you chill the dough; then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container before refrigerating. For even longer storage, you can freeze the dough for up to three months—just thaw in the fridge overnight before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy these delightful cookies, scoop and roll the chilled dough in sugar and bake as directed for that head-turning crinkle effect and soft, chewy goodness. Get ready for a fantastic treat with minimal effort!
Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! When picking your ingredients, especially for the butter and eggs, opt for fresh and high-quality products. For butter, choose unsalted for better control over the salt content. Fresh eggs should have a clean shell and be free of cracks. Also, ensure your baking powder is active; if it bubbles when mixed with water, it’s good to use!
How should I store the Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you prefer them chilled, you can refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks. Just remember they might lose some of their chewy texture when cold, but the flavor stays delightful!
Can I freeze the cookies or dough?
Certainly! For freezing the baked cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container. They can be kept for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them back in the oven for a warm treat. If you decide to freeze the dough, shape it into balls, freeze as described, and add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time when you bake from frozen!
What can I do if my cookies don’t crinkle properly?
Very common! If your cookies don’t develop that lovely crinkle on top, it might be due to a few reasons. Make sure you chill the dough for at least 30 minutes to firm it up, as this helps them crinkle during baking. Also, avoid overmixing after adding the dry ingredients; this will keep the texture light and give you those charming cracks.
Are these cookies safe for my pets or individuals with allergies?
These Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles are not suitable for pets, particularly due to the chocolate variations or the sugar content. If you’re concerned about allergies, be cautious with the ingredients: substitute eggs with flax or chia eggs for vegan diets, and always check your baking powder for allergen information. Let me know if you need more tailored dietary suggestions!
Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles – Cozy Cookies with a Kick
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt until combined.
- Mix Coffee and Vanilla: In a small bowl, combine instant coffee granules with vanilla extract, stirring until dissolved.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: Beat melted butter and brown sugar until smooth. Add egg and coffee mixture, blending well.
- Combine Ingredients: Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, stirring gently until just combined. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky.
- Chill Dough: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the dough for about 30 minutes to firm it up.
- Shape Cookies: Preheat oven to 350°F. Form balls about 1 inch in diameter, roll in granulated sugar, then powdered sugar.
- Bake: Arrange on baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes until crinkled and just set.
- Cool: Allow to cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
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