"Elevate your classic sugar cookie game with this yummy yet easy twist!"
Brown Butter Sugar Cookies
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A Note from Feedfeed
Elevate a classic sugar cookie with the depth of browned butter, this recipe promises to impress with the nutty flavor enhancement. The combination of brown butter, brown sugar, and a touch of vanilla creates the base, while the baking soda, and baking powder, ensures a cookie with just the right amount of chewiness and crispness.
Recipe Description
These brown butter sugar cookies are a game-changer, and it’s no wonder they went viral on Instagram! The secret lies in the browned butter, which adds a deep, nutty flavor that elevates the classic sugar cookie to something extraordinary. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because, these cookies are simple to prepare and absolutely irresistible.
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- Brown Butter Sugar Cookies Ingredients
- Test Kitchen Notes
- FAQs
- Recipe Card
Brown Butter Sugar Cookies Ingredients
Everything you need to make brown butter sugar cookies.
Brown butter: Browning the butter adds a rich, nutty flavor to the cookies, giving them a deep, caramel-like taste that regular butter just can’t match. If you’ve never made brown butter before, it’s worth the extra few minutes.
Test Kitchen Notes
Cool Down: After browning the butter, let it cool slightly before adding it to the dough. This prevents the heat from cooking the eggs and helps maintain the right texture in your cookies.
Chill the dough: Don’t skip chilling the dough for at least 2 hours. This helps the cookies hold their shape and enhances the flavor.
Watch the bake time: Keep an eye on the cookies during baking. They can go from perfectly golden to overbaked quickly. Remove them from the oven when the edges are just starting to turn golden brown.
Sugar coating: Rolling the dough balls in sugar before baking gives the cookies a crisp exterior that contrasts beautifully with the soft, chewy center.
Flavor Boost: For an extra depth of flavor, try adding a pinch of sea salt on top of each cookie before baking. It enhances the brown butter's nutty notes and adds a touch of gourmet flair.
Storage: For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies for up to three months. Just make sure to place them in a freezer-safe container or bag and separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them slightly in the oven for that freshly baked taste!
FAQs
What does browned butter do to cookies?
Browning butter adds a nutty, rich flavor to the cookies that deepens their taste and gives them a caramel-like undertone.
Is there a difference between sugar cookies and butter cookies?
Yes, sugar cookies are typically softer and chewier, while butter cookies are more crumbly and rich due to a higher butter content.
Does brown butter really make a difference?
Absolutely! Brown butter adds a complex, toasted flavor that enhances the overall taste of the cookies, making them more flavorful and aromatic.
Can I add mix-ins to this brown butter sugar cookie recipe?
Yes, you can! These cookies are versatile and can be customized with various mix-ins. Consider adding chocolate chips, nuts, dried fruit, or toffee bits for extra flavor and texture. Just fold them into the dough gently before baking.
Prep time 10mins (2 hour rest)
Cook time 12mins
Serves or Makes: 8 cookies
Recipe Card
ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, browned
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup sugar (plus 2 tablespoons for rolling)
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cup all purpose floyr
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
To brown the butter:
Method
Step 1
Place the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
Step 2
Allow it to melt and continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the butter foams and turns golden brown with a nutty aroma. This should take about 4-6 minutes. Be careful not to burn it.
Step 3
Once browned, transfer the butter to a heatproof bowl and let it cool slightly.
To make the cookie dough:
Step 1
In a large bowl, combine the slightly cooled brown butter and both sugars, and mix until well combined.
Step 2
Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture, and mix until the batter becomes thick and smooth.
Step 3
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
Step 4
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, and fold until all the flour is well combined.
Step 5
Scoop the cookie dough into eight portions (about 2 ½ tablespoons each).
Step 6
Chill the cookie dough in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
To bake the cookies:
Step 1
Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2
Once chilled, roll each ball and coat thoroughly in granulated sugar.
Step 3
Place the coated cookie balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving enough space between each.
Step 4
Bake for 9-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Be cautious not to overbake.
Step 5
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack and enjoying.
Step 6
Once the cookies have completely cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will keep fresh for up to one week.