If you’re on the hunt for a cookie that perfectly balances spice, chocolate, and a kick of coffee, you’ve just found your new favorite. The Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles Recipe is a delightful treat that combines warm cinnamon, rich cocoa, and bold espresso in tender, crinkly cookies dusted with a snowy layer of powdered sugar. These cookies are irresistibly soft in the center with a delicate crackled top, making them a cozy indulgence for any time of day. Once you try this Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles Recipe, you’ll want to bake a batch again and again.

Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple pantry staples that each lend their magic to the cookie’s flavor and texture. From the warm spices to the creamy butter, every ingredient plays a crucial role in making these cookies so special.

1 cup all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives the cookies their tender structure.
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds deep chocolate richness without overwhelming sweetness.
2 tsp ground cinnamon: Brings a warm, aromatic spice that complements the coffee beautifully.
1 tsp baking powder: Helps the cookies rise just enough for that perfect crinkly texture.
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Creates a luscious, soft crumb and enhances richness.
1/2 cup granulated sugar: Balances the bittersweet notes and adds subtle crunch.
1/4 cup brown sugar, packed: Imparts moisture and a touch of caramel flavor.
1 large egg (room temperature): Binds all the ingredients together for perfect dough consistency.
2 tsp espresso powder or instant coffee granules: Intensifies the chocolate flavor and adds a nuanced coffee kick.
Powdered sugar (for rolling): Provides that classic crinkle look and a sweet, delicate coating.

How to Make Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheets

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make clean-up a breeze. This step sets the stage for perfectly baked cookies every time.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, ground cinnamon, and baking powder. This blend ensures that your cinnamon and chocolate flavors are evenly distributed, and the baking powder helps create those iconic cookie crinkles as they bake.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In another large bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to beat the softened unsalted butter with the granulated and brown sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process traps air, which gives your cookies a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s hard to resist.

Step 4: Add the Egg and Coffee

Beat in the egg and espresso powder (or instant coffee granules) until fully combined. The espresso deepens the chocolate flavor while adding a subtle complexity that elevates this cookie from ordinary to extraordinary.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until everything is combined. Be careful not to overmix because you want to keep the dough tender for the soft centers of your Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles Recipe.

Step 6: Roll and Coat with Powdered Sugar

Using a cookie scoop or your hands, form the dough into balls. Roll each ball generously in powdered sugar until fully coated. This step is what gives the cookies their signature crackled appearance as they bake.

Step 7: Bake and Cool

Arrange the sugar-coated balls on your prepared baking sheets, leaving enough space for spreading. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the tops are cracked but the centers still look soft. Allow the cookies to cool slightly on the sheets before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

How to Serve Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles Recipe

Garnishes

These cookies are already a showstopper on their own, but a light dusting of extra powdered sugar just before serving enhances their visual appeal and adds a touch of sweetness. For a little festive flair, sprinkle some cinnamon or a hint of cocoa powder on top.

Side Dishes

Pair your Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles with a steaming cup of coffee or creamy hot chocolate for a cozy snack or dessert. They also go wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a richer indulgence that highlights the spicy chocolate notes.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings or gifts, stack these cookies in a pretty jar or wrap in parchment tied with a gingham ribbon. You can also serve them on an elegant platter alongside colorful fresh berries or orange slices to add brightness to the presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles will stay fresh and chewy when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. They typically keep well for up to 5 days, making them a perfect make-ahead treat for busy weeks or unexpected guests.

Freezing

If you want to stock up, these cookies freeze beautifully. Once baked and cooled, place them between layers of parchment paper inside a freezer-safe container or bag. They will maintain their flavor and texture for up to 3 months.

Reheating

To enjoy frozen cookies, let them thaw at room temperature. If you prefer them warm, pop a couple in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or briefly heat in an oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes. This revives their soft centers and brings out all the inviting aromas anew.

FAQs

Can I use regular coffee instead of espresso powder?

Instant espresso powder is concentrated and dissolves quickly, which makes it ideal for enhancing the chocolate flavor. Regular coffee won’t work as well because it’s less concentrated and adding liquid coffee could affect your dough texture.

Why do my cookies not have the crinkled top?

The crinkle effect comes from rolling the dough in powdered sugar and baking at the right temperature. If you skip the sugar coating or bake at too low a temperature, the cookies won’t crack properly, so be sure to follow these steps closely.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures like regular flour. Just keep in mind that texture might be slightly different, but the flavors will still be delicious.

Is it important to use room temperature eggs?

Using room temperature eggs helps the ingredients blend more evenly, ensuring a smoother dough and consistent texture in your cookies. Cold eggs can make it harder to incorporate the ingredients properly.

How do I get the cookie centers soft but cooked?

Watch the baking time closely and remove the cookies from the oven when the tops appear cracked but the centers still look slightly soft. They firm up as they cool, giving you that perfect tender bite.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of cinnamon, chocolate, and coffee filling your kitchen on a baking day. The Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles Recipe is one of those sweet treasures—easy to whip up and impossible not to love. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with friends and family, these cookies bring warmth and joy with every delightful bite. Go ahead and give this recipe a try—you deserve a little delicious magic in your day!