Brown Butter Sugar Cookies

These Brown Butter Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat, perfect for any occasion. With their crispy edges and chewy centers, they strike the ideal balance between textures. The rich flavor of brown butter adds a unique twist that elevates these cookies above standard sugar cookies. Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a holiday, or simply indulging in a sweet snack, these cookies will impress friends and family alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The nutty aroma of brown butter gives these cookies an unforgettable taste.
• Perfect Texture: Enjoy a satisfying crunch on the outside and a soft, chewy center.
• Versatile Treat: Great for holidays, gatherings, or just because—these cookies fit any occasion.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, baking becomes a breeze.
• Chill and Bake: Prepare the dough ahead of time by chilling it overnight for convenience.

Tools and Preparation

To create your batch of delicious brown butter sugar cookies, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment ensures smooth preparation and baking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: These mixers save time and effort when creaming butter and sugar together.
• Mixing bowls: A variety of sizes helps keep your workspace organized while combining ingredients.
• Parchment paper: This prevents cookies from sticking to the baking sheet, ensuring easy removal.

Ingredients

These brown butter sugar cookies are nice and crispy on the edges with a chewy under-baked center.

For the Cookie Dough

• 1 cup unsalted brown butter (room temperature)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup light brown sugar
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• Sparkling sugar (for topping)

How to Make Brown Butter Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butters and Sugars

Using a stand or hand mixer:
1. Cream together the brown butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until smooth and creamy.
2. Add in the eggs, vanilla extract, almond extract, and lemon juice.
3. Beat for 3-4 minutes until light and fluffy; it should look much paler than before.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. In another bowl, mix together the flour, baking soda, and kosher salt.
2. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients.
3. Mix until thoroughly combined; expect wet and sticky dough.

Step 3: Shape the Dough Balls

1. Spoon a generous 3 tablespoons of dough from the bowl.
2. Roll into balls; if desired, roll the tops in sparkling sugar for added texture.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough balls with plastic wrap and chill in the fridge overnight (or at least 2 hours if you can’t wait).

Step 5: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a light-colored baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for baking.

Step 6: Arrange Dough on Baking Sheet

Place dough balls at least 2-3 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet:
– Remember that they will spread out during baking.
– Usually place only six cookies on a half sheet pan while keeping others chilled.

Step 7: Bake Cookies

Bake on the center rack for about 9-11 minutes:
– Look for set edges while maintaining soft centers.

Step 8: Cool Before Serving

Once done:
1. Remove from oven and let rest on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes.
2. Transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely before enjoying!

How to Serve Brown Butter Sugar Cookies

Brown butter sugar cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply indulging at home, here are some creative serving suggestions.

With Milk

• A classic combination, serving these cookies with a glass of cold milk enhances their flavor and adds a comforting touch.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Use two cookies to create an ice cream sandwich. Choose your favorite flavor for a delicious dessert experience.

Coffee Pairing

• Enjoy these cookies alongside a warm cup of coffee or espresso. The rich flavors of brown butter complement the bitterness of coffee perfectly.

Dessert Platter

• Arrange your brown butter sugar cookies on a dessert platter with fruits and chocolates for an elegant presentation at gatherings.

Gift Packaging

• Package these cookies in a decorative box as a homemade gift. They make for a thoughtful and tasty present for any occasion.

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How to Perfect Brown Butter Sugar Cookies

Achieving perfect brown butter sugar cookies is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your cookie game.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensuring that your eggs and butter are at room temperature helps create a smoother dough and better texture.

• Don’t skip the chilling step: Chilling the dough allows the flavors to meld together while helping the cookies maintain their shape during baking.

• Watch the baking time closely: Remove the cookies from the oven when they are just set at the edges but still soft in the center for that perfect chewy texture.

• Experiment with add-ins: Consider adding chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit to give your cookies an extra layer of flavor.

• Store properly: Keep any leftover cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and chewiness.

Best Side Dishes for Brown Butter Sugar Cookies

Pairing side dishes with your brown butter sugar cookies can enhance their enjoyment. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing side that complements the rich flavors of the cookies.
2. Chocolate Fondue: Dip pieces of cookie into warm chocolate for an indulgent treat.
3. Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and cookie crumbles for a delicious breakfast or dessert option.
4. Cheese Platter: Include cheeses like brie or aged cheddar which offer contrasting flavors against the sweetness of the cookies.
5. Hot Chocolate: A warm mug of hot chocolate pairs beautifully with these sweet treats, especially in colder months.
6. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle caramel sauce over your cookies for an extra touch of sweetness and richness.
7. Nut Mix: A savory nut mix can provide a nice contrast to the sweet cookie, balancing out flavors effectively.
8. Savory Biscuits: Offer something salty alongside for those who enjoy contrasting taste profiles with sweets.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making brown butter sugar cookies can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using cold ingredients: Cold butter and eggs can lead to uneven mixing. Always use room temperature ingredients for the best texture.
• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough prevents cookies from spreading too much. Don’t rush this step; aim for at least 2 hours in the fridge.
• Overmixing the dough: Overworking the dough can make cookies tough. Mix just until combined for a soft and chewy cookie.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can lead to dry cookies. Use a kitchen scale or spoon and level technique for accuracy.
• Baking on a dark sheet: Dark baking sheets absorb heat and can over-brown cookies. Use light-colored sheets for even baking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Keep layers separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Brown Butter Sugar Cookies

• Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls for up to 3 months.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or place in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating Brown Butter Sugar Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5 minutes until soft.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for 10-15 seconds on low power.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making brown butter sugar cookies:

What makes brown butter sugar cookies different?

Brown butter adds a nutty flavor that elevates traditional sugar cookies. It enhances the overall taste, making these cookies more complex and delicious.

Can I substitute regular butter for brown butter?

While you can use regular butter, it won’t provide the same rich flavor. If time allows, consider browning your butter for that extra depth.

How do I know when my brown butter sugar cookies are done?

Look for set edges with slightly soft centers. They will continue cooking on the baking sheet after removal from the oven.

Can I add mix-ins to my brown butter sugar cookies?

Absolutely! Chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits make great additions. Just fold them into the dough before chilling.

Final Thoughts

These brown butter sugar cookies are not only delightful but also versatile enough to customize according to your preferences. Whether you choose to add chocolate chips or enjoy them plain, they offer warmth and comfort in every bite. Give this recipe a try and savor the deliciousness!