Dessert

Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles Recipe

ByLily Monroe October 24, 2025October 24, 2025

Introduction

Cinnamon Coffee Crinkles are soft, chewy cookies bursting with warm cinnamon and rich coffee flavors. These delightful treats are perfect for cozy afternoons or as a sweet pick-me-up alongside your favorite cup of joe.

A white marbled surface holds an array of small white dishes and glass jars arranged in a loose circle, each containing different baking ingredients. At the top left, a clear glass jar filled with dark brown coffee beans contrasts with the white surroundings. Next to it, a small glass filled with dark amber liquid sits. To the right, a glass jar contains light brown sugar. At the center, a white plate holds a solid block of pale yellow butter. Below it, a small white bowl shows cubed pieces of the same butter color, while next to it is a single light brown egg resting in a white bowl. A small white plate with three clear ice cubes sits nearby. Two larger white bowls, one on each side, hold white granulated sugar and powdered white flour. Lastly, a white ramekin holds a mix of brown cinnamon and white salt. All items sit against the white marbled surface, carefully arranged and well lit, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp baking powder
¼ tsp salt
2 tbsp instant coffee granules
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
¾ cup brown sugar
1 large egg
¼ cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
¼ cup powdered sugar (for rolling)

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ground cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Set this dry mixture aside.
Step 2: In a small bowl, combine the instant coffee granules and vanilla extract, stirring until the coffee dissolves completely.
Step 3: In a large bowl, beat the melted butter and brown sugar together until smooth. Add the egg and the dissolved coffee mixture, mixing until fully combined.
Step 4: Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. The dough will be soft and slightly sticky.
Step 5: Cover the dough and chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 6: Scoop the chilled dough into small balls. Roll each ball first in granulated sugar, then in powdered sugar to create the crinkle effect.
Step 7: Place the coated dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them well apart to allow for spreading. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes until the cookies are crinkled and set.
Step 8: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Tips & Variations

Chill the dough before baking to make rolling easier and to help develop deeper crinkles.
Don’t overmix the dough; stirring until just combined keeps the cookies soft and chewy.
For a striking look, double roll the dough balls—first in granulated sugar, then in powdered sugar.
If you don’t have instant coffee, espresso powder or finely ground coffee can be used instead.
Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for a spicier flavor twist.
Mix in mini chocolate chips for a mocha-inspired variation.
Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.
You can chill the dough for up to 24 hours before baking or freeze dough balls for up to 3 months; just thaw slightly before rolling and baking.

Storage

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To keep them longer, freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months—simply thaw before enjoying. Reheat gently if desired to refresh their soft texture.

How to Serve

A white plate with a thin gold rim holds about a dozen round cookies, each covered with a cracked pattern of white powdered sugar on top, revealing light brown underneath. The cookies are slightly uneven in size and stacked closely, filling the plate. The surface underneath is a white marbled texture with some scattered powdered sugar. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use brewed coffee instead of instant coffee granules?

Instant coffee granules deliver a concentrated flavor without adding extra liquid, which helps maintain the dough consistency. Using brewed coffee is not recommended as it may alter the texture and require adjustments to the recipe’s wet ingredients.

How can I make the cookies more chocolatey?

Adding mini chocolate chips to the dough is an easy way to introduce a mocha flavor that complements the cinnamon and coffee notes beautifully. Fold them in gently after combining the wet and dry ingredients.