These brown butter sugar cookies are a delicious twist on the classic sugar cookie. By browning the butter, you create a rich, nutty flavor that takes these cookies to a whole new level. Soft and chewy on the inside with a slightly crispy edge, they’re perfect for any occasion—from holiday gatherings to casual weekday treats.
In this step-by-step guide, I’ll show you exactly how to make these irresistible cookies. They’re easy to prepare with simple ingredients and guaranteed to become your new favorite sugar cookie recipe. So, grab your mixing bowls, and let’s bake some magic!
Prep Time and Servings
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes (optional, but recommended)
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 18–20 cookies
Ingredients for Brown Butter Sugar Cookies
To make these soft, chewy, and flavorful brown butter sugar cookies, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that come together to create something magical:
For the Cookie Dough:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter (for browning)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar (adds a hint of caramel flavor)
- 1 large egg (at room temperature)
- 1 egg yolk (adds richness and chewiness)
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For Rolling the Cookies:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for that classic sugar cookie coating)
Optional Garnishes:
- A sprinkle of flaky sea salt (to balance the sweetness)
- A dusting of powdered sugar (for a soft, festive finish)
These ingredients are simple, but the browned butter adds a deep, nutty richness that makes these sugar cookies truly unforgettable. Trust me, they’re worth every step!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Brown Butter Sugar Cookies
Step 1: Brown the Butter
In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir constantly as it begins to foam and bubble. After 4–5 minutes, the butter will turn golden brown, and you’ll smell a rich, nutty aroma. At this point, remove the pan from the heat immediately to prevent burning.
Pour the browned butter into a heatproof bowl and let it cool for 10–15 minutes. It should be slightly warm but not hot when you add it to the dough.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the browned butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to beat the mixture for about 2 minutes, until it’s well combined and slightly fluffy.
Next, add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Mix again until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix—this keeps the cookies soft and tender.
Step 4: Chill the Dough
For the best results, cover the cookie dough with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps solidify the butter, which prevents the cookies from spreading too much in the oven and enhances the flavor.
Pro Tip: If you’re short on time, you can skip this step, but the cookies may spread slightly more.
Step 5: Roll and Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Scoop about 1.5 tablespoons of dough and roll it into balls. Roll each dough ball in granulated sugar to coat it evenly. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are set and lightly golden. The centers will still look soft—that’s exactly what you want! Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Once the cookies are completely cooled, sprinkle a little flaky sea salt on top for a sweet-and-salty finish. If you prefer a festive touch, dust them lightly with powdered sugar. Serve with a glass of milk, a cup of tea, or enjoy them on their own.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Brown Butter Sugar Cookies
- Brown the Butter Carefully
Browning butter is the star of this recipe, but it can burn quickly if you’re not careful. Stir constantly and watch for the golden brown color and nutty aroma. Once you see brown bits forming at the bottom, remove the butter from the heat immediately. - Let the Brown Butter Cool
Allow the browned butter to cool for 10–15 minutes before mixing it with the sugar. If it’s too hot, it can scramble the eggs or make the dough greasy. - Measure Your Flour Correctly
Use the “spoon and level” method to measure your flour. Scooping directly with the measuring cup can pack in too much flour, resulting in dense cookies instead of soft and chewy ones. - Chill the Dough
Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes is a game-changer. It helps control spreading, intensifies the flavor, and ensures the cookies bake up thick and soft. If you’re in a rush, even 15 minutes in the freezer will help. - Roll in Sugar for a Classic Finish
Rolling the dough balls in granulated sugar adds a sparkly, crisp coating that contrasts beautifully with the chewy center. Don’t skip this step—it gives the cookies their classic sugar cookie look. - Bake Just Until the Edges Set
For perfectly chewy cookies, remove them from the oven when the edges are set and golden, but the centers still look soft. They’ll continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet. Overbaking can make them hard and dry. - Add a Sprinkle of Sea Salt
A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt after baking elevates the flavor by balancing the sweetness and enhancing the nuttiness of the browned butter. - Store Them Properly
To keep your cookies soft and fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months—just thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
Serving Suggestions for Brown Butter Sugar Cookies
These Brown Butter Sugar Cookies are a versatile treat that pairs beautifully with a variety of flavors and beverages. Here are some serving ideas to make the most of these irresistible cookies:
- Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack. The rich, nutty flavor of the cookies perfectly complements a warm drink. If you’re in the mood for something more indulgent, try them with this creamy pumpkin trifle recipe.
- Serve as part of a holiday cookie platter alongside other favorites like these soft and flavorful carrot cake cookies. It’s a guaranteed hit for parties or family gatherings.
- Enjoy with a scoop of ice cream for a delightful dessert twist. Vanilla or salted caramel ice cream works beautifully with the deep flavors of browned butter.
- Pair with a warm mug of cocoa for the ultimate sweet treat. Add marshmallows or whipped cream for a nostalgic, comforting combination. For more warm inspiration, check out this decadent cinnamon roll cheesecake.
- Gift them to friends and family in a festive tin or jar. These cookies travel well and make for a thoughtful homemade gift during the holidays.
- Add a little flair by drizzling melted chocolate or caramel over the cookies. This simple addition takes them to a whole new level of decadence.
Whether you’re enjoying them with a hot drink, a scoop of ice cream, or sharing them with loved ones, these Brown Butter Sugar Cookies are guaranteed to brighten any occasion.
FAQs About Brown Butter Sugar Cookies
1. Is browned butter good for sugar cookies?
Yes, browned butter is amazing for sugar cookies! It adds a rich, nutty, and slightly caramelized flavor that elevates the classic sugar cookie. This simple step transforms the cookies into something more decadent and flavorful.
2. What does browned butter do to cookies?
Browning butter enhances cookies by adding a deep, nutty flavor. When butter is browned, the milk solids toast, creating a unique aroma and flavor profile. It also gives the cookies a richer taste and a slightly chewier texture.
3. What does brown sugar do to cookies?
Brown sugar adds moisture, softness, and a subtle caramel flavor to cookies. The molasses in brown sugar helps make cookies chewy and slightly denser compared to those made with only granulated sugar.
4. What does butter do in sugar cookies?
Butter plays a key role in sugar cookies by providing richness, flavor, and tenderness. It also helps create the perfect texture—crispy edges with a soft, chewy center. When creamed with sugar, butter introduces air into the dough, which helps the cookies bake evenly and rise slightly.
Conclusion: Make These Brown Butter Sugar Cookies Today
In conclusion, these Brown Butter Sugar Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic sugar cookie. The nutty, caramelized flavor of browned butter takes them to a whole new level, creating a cookie that’s soft, chewy, and irresistibly rich.
Additionally, with simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, gifting friends, or simply treating yourself, these cookies are guaranteed to impress.
Finally, don’t forget to sprinkle a little flaky sea salt on top for that perfect sweet-and-salty balance. Once you try these cookies, they’ll quickly become your go-to recipe for any occasion. So, grab your mixing bowl, brown some butter, and enjoy every delicious bite!
Happy baking!
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