Brown Butter Sugar Cookies

These brown butter sugar cookies are the perfect blend of crispy edges and a chewy center, making them irresistible for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a bake sale, or simply indulging in a sweet treat at home, these cookies bring a delightful twist to the classic sugar cookie. The rich flavor of brown butter elevates the taste, giving them a nutty aroma that is simply unmatched. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this deliciously unique dessert!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The brown butter adds a deep, nutty taste that takes these cookies to the next level.
• Perfect Texture: Enjoy crispy edges with a soft, chewy center—ideal for cookie lovers of all kinds.
• Versatile Treat: Great for any occasion, from family gatherings to holiday parties.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip these up in no time.
• Chill Time Benefits: Chilling the dough enhances flavors and ensures perfectly shaped cookies.

Tools and Preparation

To make these brown butter sugar cookies, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your baking process and help you achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheet
• Cookie scoop or tablespoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Makes creaming the butter and sugars easy, ensuring a smooth texture.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless.
• Cookie scoop or tablespoon: Ensures uniform cookie sizes for even baking.

Ingredients

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

For the Cookies

• 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, cream together the brown butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and creamy. Add in the eggs, vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and lemon juice. Beat for 3-4 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

Add in the flour, baking soda, and salt into your wet mixture. Mix until thoroughly combined. The dough should be wet and sticky but well integrated.

Step 3: Form Cookie Dough Balls

Spoon about 3 tablespoons of dough and roll it into balls. If desired, roll the tops in sparkling sugar for an added touch of sweetness.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Chill in the fridge overnight or at least for 2 hours if you’re short on time.

Step 5: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a light-colored baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Arrange Dough on Baking Sheet

Place dough balls at least 2-3 inches apart on the baking sheet. They will spread during baking; typically, I fit only six cookies on a half-sheet pan. Keep remaining dough balls in the fridge while baking.

Step 7: Bake Cookies

Bake cookies on the center rack of your oven for about 9-11 minutes or until edges are set but centers remain soft.

Step 8: Cool Down

Remove from oven and let rest on the baking sheet for about 2-3 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely. Enjoy your delicious brown butter sugar cookies!

How to Serve Brown Butter Sugar Cookies

These brown butter sugar cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your cookie experience.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair these cookies with a cold glass of milk for the classic combination. The milk complements the sweetness and richness of the cookies perfectly.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Use two brown butter sugar cookies to create delightful ice cream sandwiches. Choose your favorite ice cream flavor and enjoy a decadent treat.

Warm with Chocolate Drizzle

• Drizzle melted chocolate over warm cookies for an extra indulgent dessert. This adds a rich flavor that pairs wonderfully with the brown butter.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve alongside fresh strawberries or raspberries for a refreshing contrast. The tartness of the berries balances the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.

At Parties or Gatherings

• Arrange these cookies on a platter for parties or gatherings. Their crispy edges and chewy centers will impress your guests and make them a popular choice.

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How to Perfect Brown Butter Sugar Cookies

To ensure your brown butter sugar cookies turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use room temperature ingredients – Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature to help create a smooth dough that bakes evenly.

• Chill the dough – Chilling helps prevent spreading during baking, leading to thicker, chewier cookies with great texture.

• Measure flour correctly – Use the scoop-and-level method to avoid adding too much flour, which can result in dry cookies.

• Bake on parchment paper – Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper prevents sticking and ensures even baking.

Best Side Dishes for Brown Butter Sugar Cookies

Brown butter sugar cookies can be complemented by various side dishes to create a delightful meal or dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad provides freshness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Vanilla Ice Cream – A scoop of vanilla ice cream makes a tasty pairing, enhancing flavor contrasts.
3. Coffee or Tea – A warm cup of coffee or tea is perfect for dipping and adds warmth to your dessert time.
4. Cheese Platter – Serve with mild cheeses like brie or gouda for an elegant twist on dessert.
5. Chocolate Fondue – Dip pieces of cookie into warm chocolate fondue for an indulgent treat.
6. Nut Mix – A mix of nuts adds crunch and savory flavors that complement sweet cookies nicely.
7. Greek Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruits for a healthy side dish option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making brown butter sugar cookies, it’s easy to overlook some important details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Not using room temperature ingredients: Cold eggs and butter can lead to uneven mixing, resulting in less fluffy cookies. Always bring your ingredients to room temperature first.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too long after adding flour can make your cookies tough. Mix just until combined for a soft texture.
• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough is crucial for flavor and texture. Don’t skip this step; it helps prevent spreading during baking.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Incorrect measurements can ruin the balance. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups for accuracy.
• Baking on a dark pan: Dark pans absorb heat, causing cookies to brown too quickly. Use light-colored baking sheets for even baking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Brown Butter Sugar Cookies

• Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls for up to 3 months.
• After freezing, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for longer storage.

Reheating Brown Butter Sugar Cookies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5 minutes for a freshly baked taste.
• Microwave: Heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds until warm; be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat with a lid for a few minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about brown butter sugar cookies that might help you out!

How do I make brown butter?

To make brown butter, melt unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma.

Can I substitute regular butter for brown butter?

Yes, but you will miss out on the rich flavor that brown butter adds. If you must substitute, consider browning the regular butter first.

What makes these Brown Butter Sugar Cookies chewy?

The combination of under-baking and chilling the dough creates that perfect chewy texture in these cookies.

How do I customize my Brown Butter Sugar Cookies?

You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits for extra flavor. Experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg as well!

Final Thoughts

These brown butter sugar cookies are not only delicious but also versatile enough to adapt to your taste preferences. Whether you enjoy them plain or with added flavors, they are perfect for any occasion. Don’t hesitate—give this recipe a try today!