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brown butter cookies

brown butter cookies

These brown butter cookies offer an unforgettable flavor with a rich, nutty, caramelized essence from the browned butter, perfectly balanced sweetness, and a delightful texture of chewy centers with crisp edges.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 32 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 210

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, high-quality
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 1 large egg, at room temperature
  • 1 egg yolk, at room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1 cup chocolate chips (optional)
  • ½ cup chopped nuts (optional)

Method
 

  1. Brown the butter in a light-colored saucepan over medium heat until golden brown and nutty, then transfer to a large mixing bowl and let cool.
  2. Cream the cooled browned butter with granulated and light brown sugars until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Add the egg and egg yolk one at a time, mixing until fully incorporated, then stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
  5. Gradually add the dry mix to the wet ingredients, mixing on low until just combined. If using, fold in chocolate chips or nuts.
  6. Chill the dough for at least 2 hours or preferably overnight.
  7. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare baking sheets with parchment paper.
  8. Scoop dough onto sheets 2 inches apart. Bake for 9-12 minutes until edges are golden but centers are slightly soft.
  9. Let cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Browning the butter is key to developing the unique flavor of these cookies. Chilling the dough is essential for optimal texture.