Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles Recipe – Soft, Spiced, and Perfectly Chewy Cookies 2025

Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles

There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of cinnamon mingling with the bold richness of coffee. Now imagine those flavors baked into a perfectly chewy cookie with a delicate sugary crackle on top. That, dear readers, is the magic of Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles.

Whether you’re sipping your favorite latte or curling up with a chai tea, these cookies make the ideal companion. Infused with real coffee and warm spices, they’re everything you love about a café in a cookie form. Great for gifting, holiday platters, or simply satisfying your daily sweet craving, this recipe is a must-have in your baking collection.

In this ultimate guide, we’ll cover every detail of making Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles—from the ingredients to storage tips, FAQs, variations, and more. Let’s get baking!


Why You’ll Love These Cinnamon Coffee Crinkle Cookies

  • Coffee meets comfort: A deep, aromatic flavor profile that pairs perfectly with hot beverages.
  • Soft and chewy: These cookies have a tender center with a crackly, sugary crust.
  • Easy to make: Simple steps and pantry-staple ingredients.
  • Make ahead friendly: The dough freezes well and the cookies stay fresh for days.
  • Customizable: Easily adapted to be gluten-free, dairy-free, or even extra decadent.

Ingredients Breakdown & Baking Science

Here’s what you’ll need for the perfect batch of crinkles:

Dry Ingredients:

  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for structure. For gluten-free, use a 1-to-1 baking blend.
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda + 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: The combo ensures lift and a crackly top.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors.

Wet Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness and moisture. Substitute with plant-based butter if needed.
  • 1 cup brown sugar (packed): Gives the cookies a soft texture and caramel notes.
  • 1 large egg: Binds everything together and provides structure.
  • 2 tablespoons brewed coffee or 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder: Coffee brings depth without overpowering.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor bouquet.

For Rolling:

  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar

These two coatings ensure the signature crinkle look—crackled and sugar-dusted.


Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar for 3–4 minutes until fluffy. Beat in the egg, vanilla, and coffee until well combined.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix until just combined. The dough will be slightly soft and sticky.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours). This step ensures easier rolling and enhances flavor.

Step 3: Preheat & Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare two bowls—one with granulated sugar and the other with powdered sugar.

Step 4: Shape & Roll

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls. First coat in granulated sugar, then in powdered sugar. Make sure each ball is generously coated.

Place the cookie dough balls about 2 inches apart on your baking sheet.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are just set and the tops are beautifully cracked.

Let cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.


Pro Baking Tips

  • Do not skip chilling: Warm dough spreads too much.
  • Use fresh baking soda and powder: They’re essential for the signature crinkle.
  • Brew strong coffee: For more flavor, use a rich, bold coffee.
  • Avoid overbaking: They should be soft in the center when removed from the oven.

Variations & Flavor Twists

☕ Espresso Lovers:

Use 1 tablespoon of espresso powder instead of brewed coffee for an intense coffee bite.

🧁 Chocolate Cinnamon Crinkles:

Add 1/4 cup cocoa powder to the dry ingredients and mix in chocolate chips.

🌱 Vegan Version:

Use plant-based butter and a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) to replace the egg.

🌿 Gluten-Free:

Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend and check your other ingredients for hidden gluten.

🍫 Maple Spice:

Add 1 tbsp maple syrup and 1/4 tsp nutmeg for a fall-inspired version.


Storage & Make-Ahead Instructions

Room Temperature:

Store in an airtight container for 4–5 days. Add a slice of bread to the container to keep them soft.

Refrigerated Dough:

You can refrigerate dough for up to 24–48 hours before baking.

Freezing the Dough:

Roll into balls and coat with sugars. Freeze on a baking sheet until solid, then store in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen—just add 1–2 extra minutes.

Freezing Baked Cookies:

Let cookies cool completely, then freeze in a sealed container. Thaw at room temp or reheat for 10–15 seconds in the microwave.


Best Pairings

  • Freshly brewed coffee (of course!)
  • Hot chocolate with whipped cream
  • Masala chai or cinnamon tea
  • Vanilla bean ice cream (serve warm cookies on top)
  • Sprinkle crushed cookies on yogurt or oatmeal

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I skip the coffee?

Yes. Replace the coffee with milk or just leave it out. The cinnamon will still shine.

Why didn’t my cookies crinkle?

Your dough may have been too warm or the coating wasn’t thick enough. Chill well and be generous with sugar.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, but it will slightly change the texture and flavor.

How do I make them crispier?

Flatten the dough balls slightly and bake 1–2 minutes longer.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Chopped pecans, walnuts, or chocolate chips work great in this dough.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! This recipe doubles and even triples well. Just chill the dough longer.


Nutrition Information (Per Cookie)

(Estimated for 1 cookie out of 20)

  • Calories: 145
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Fat: 6g
  • Protein: 1.5g
  • Fiber: 0.5g

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Title: Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles Recipe (Chewy, Crinkled, Coffee-Infused Cookies)

Meta Description: Bake the best Cinnamon Coffee Crinkle Cookies with this cozy, chewy recipe. Infused with coffee and cinnamon, these cookies are perfect for holidays or daily treats. Easy, customizable, and freezer-friendly.

Keywords: cinnamon crinkle cookies, coffee cookies, chewy cinnamon cookies, holiday baking, coffee dessert recipes, easy cookie recipe, crinkle cookies


Conclusion: A Cookie Worth Sharing

Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles are everything you want in a homemade cookie—cozy, chewy, and kissed with spice and bold coffee flavor. With their charming crackle tops and melt-in-your-mouth centers, they’re guaranteed to win over coffee lovers and cookie enthusiasts alike.

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