Introduction
There’s something truly magical about cookies that blend the comforting flavors of coffee cake with the delightful ease of a cookie. Inspired by the beloved Gilmore Girls, these Coffee Cake Cookies are perfect for enjoying with your morning coffee or sharing with friends at your next gathering. With a tender, cake-like texture and a sweet, spiced cinnamon topping, these cookies are sure to warm your heart and awaken your taste buds. Let’s dive into this wonderful recipe that brings a little bit of Stars Hollow into your kitchen!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set the bowl aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar. Mix until the mixture is light and fluffy, filling your kitchen with a delightful aroma.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract, incorporating them well into the buttery mixture.
- Add the sour cream to the butter mixture and mix until everything is smooth and beautifully combined.
- Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
- In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon, creating a fragrant spice blend.
- If you choose to add nuts, fold them into the cookie dough for a delightful crunch.
- Using a spoon, drop generous spoonfuls of the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, allowing space between each for spreading.
- Sprinkle the brown sugar-cinnamon mixture generously over the top of each dollop of cookie dough — this will create a lovely, sweet crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the tops are just set. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the final touch, dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar before serving, adding a beautiful finishing sprinkle of sweetness.
Notes or Tips
For an extra kick of flavor, you might consider adding a touch of nutmeg to the brown sugar-cinnamon mixture. If you don’t have nuts on hand or prefer a nut-free option, feel free to leave them out entirely — these cookies are delicious either way! Enjoy these cookies fresh, or store them in an airtight container for up to a week.
Cooking Techniques
These Coffee Cake Cookies are a fantastic way to practice your creaming technique. Be sure to cream the butter and sugar until it’s light and fluffy, as this will ensure a tender cookie. Remember, the secret to perfect cookies is in the mixing — combine the wet and dry ingredients carefully to avoid tough cookies!
FAQ
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough for up to three months! Just scoop the dough onto parchment paper, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw and cook as directed.
How can I make these cookies dairy-free?
To make these cookies dairy-free, substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative and use a dairy-free yogurt in place of the sour cream. They’ll be just as delightful!
Conclusion
These Coffee Cake Cookies are more than just a sweet treat; they are a lovely way to share the comforting, nostalgic essence of Gilmore Girls with friends and family. Whether you’re enjoying them on a cozy afternoon or sharing them at a gathering, each bite is a reminder of warm connections and happy moments. So pour yourself a cup of coffee, grab a cookie, and indulge in a little slice of joy!