I’ve always had a soft spot for sugar cookies. They’re classic, comforting, and the perfect balance of sweetness. However, a while back, I discovered that by browning the butter, you can transform an ordinary sugar cookie into something extraordinary. The brown butter gives these cookies a nutty, rich flavor that takes them to the next level. It’s incredible how something so simple can be so transformative.
Why you’ll love this recipe:
Versatile
These Brown Butter Sugar Cookies are incredibly versatile. You can keep them simple and classic, or you can add your own twist by incorporating chocolate chips, nuts, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon. The base recipe is so delicious on its own that it works with a wide variety of add-ins.
Budget-friendly
One of the best parts about this recipe is that it’s budget-friendly. With just a handful of common pantry ingredients, you can make a batch of these delicious cookies. No need for fancy or expensive ingredients. The simple combination of butter, sugar, and flour yields an incredible result.
Ingredients for the recipe:
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1 cup unsalted butter
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1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1/2 teaspoon baking soda
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1 large egg
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
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A pinch of sea salt for topping (optional)
Brown butter is the star here. Its toasty, caramelized flavor brings a depth to the cookies that ordinary butter just can’t match. The cinnamon adds a warm touch, and the sea salt on top creates the perfect contrast with the sweetness of the cookie. Whether you’re making them for a casual treat or a special occasion, these Brown Butter Sugar Cookies will never disappoint.
Making Brown Butter Sugar Cookies is an enjoyable and satisfying process. Once you’ve tasted the rich flavor of brown butter in these cookies, you’ll be hooked. The best part is that it’s a quick and easy recipe, and you’ll find yourself making them over and over again. Below, I’ll walk you through step-by-step instructions to ensure you get perfect results every time.
How to make this recipe
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Brown the butter:
Start by browning your butter. In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir it constantly to prevent burning. After a few minutes, the butter will foam and then start turning golden brown with little bits of caramelized solids at the bottom. This is when you’ll know it’s ready. Remove it from the heat immediately and let it cool slightly. Set it aside for about 10 minutes so it can solidify a bit before using it in the dough. -
Prepare the dry ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using). This ensures the dry ingredients are well distributed and ready to be mixed into the butter mixture later. Set this bowl aside for now. -
Mix the wet ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the browned butter and granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer or a whisk to beat the butter and sugar together until they’re light and fluffy. This may take about 3-4 minutes. Once it’s nice and creamy, add in the egg and vanilla extract. Continue beating until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. -
Combine wet and dry ingredients:
Now, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Do this in batches, mixing after each addition. This helps to incorporate the flour mixture evenly without overmixing. Once the dough comes together, it should be soft and slightly sticky. -
Chill the dough:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps to firm it up and makes it easier to scoop out for baking. It also enhances the flavor, as it allows the ingredients to meld together. -
Preheat the oven and prepare the baking sheet:
While the dough is chilling, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and help them bake evenly. -
Shape the cookies:
Once the dough is chilled, take a tablespoon-sized amount of dough and roll it into a ball using your hands. Place the cookie dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. If you like, you can gently flatten the dough balls with the back of a spoon or your fingers to achieve a slightly flatter cookie. -
Bake the cookies:
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers look set. Keep an eye on them towards the end, as oven times may vary. If you prefer a chewier texture, take the cookies out a little earlier, when they’re just golden around the edges. For a crispier cookie, leave them in a bit longer. -
Add the finishing touch:
Once the cookies are out of the oven, immediately sprinkle a small pinch of sea salt on top of each one. The sea salt adds a beautiful contrast to the sweetness and highlights the rich, nutty flavor of the brown butter. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Quick and easy
This recipe is quick to make, with no complicated steps or difficult techniques. From browning the butter to mixing the dough, everything comes together in about 30 minutes of active prep time. The dough only needs a short chill, and the cookies bake in just 10-12 minutes, making them an excellent option for when you need a sweet treat in a hurry.
Customizable
One of the best things about these Brown Butter Sugar Cookies is how easy it is to customize them. You can stir in your favorite add-ins like chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even dried fruit. Feel free to experiment with different flavors as well – try adding a little lemon zest for a citrus twist, or substitute the vanilla extract with almond extract for a different flavor profile. You can even roll the dough balls in sugar before baking for an extra crunchy coating.
Perfect for guests
These cookies are perfect for any occasion. Their unique, toasty flavor is sure to impress guests, and they’re easy to serve at any gathering, whether it’s a holiday party, a casual get-together, or a bake sale. The brown butter gives these cookies a gourmet edge that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
In just a few simple steps, you’ll have a batch of warm, fragrant Brown Butter Sugar Cookies that are sure to delight anyone who tries them.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Can I use regular butter instead of browned butter?
While regular butter will work in this recipe, you’ll miss out on the rich, nutty flavor that brown butter provides. Browning the butter adds a deeper, more complex taste, making these cookies stand out. If you’re short on time, you can skip the browning step, but for the best flavor, I recommend using browned butter.
2. Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough! After shaping the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Then, transfer the dough balls to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to bake, just place the frozen dough balls directly on a baking sheet and bake as usual, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.
3. Can I substitute other types of sugar?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of sugar. Brown sugar will add a bit of extra moisture and depth to the cookies, making them even chewier. You can also use coconut sugar for a more natural, slightly caramelized flavor.
4. How should I store the cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate or freeze them. Just be sure to bring them to room temperature before serving for the best texture.