Description
These Brown Butter Sugar Cookies feature a rich, nutty flavor from browned butter combined with a perfectly balanced sweet dough. Topped optionally with a smooth vanilla bean glaze, these soft yet chewy cookies are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter (browned)
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
Vanilla Bean Glaze (Optional)
- 1½ cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract
- A splash of milk (as needed to thin)
- Sprinkles or flaky sea salt (optional)
Instructions
- Make the Brown Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, stirring frequently. Continue as it foams and browns for about 3–5 minutes, until you smell a nutty aroma and golden specks form on the bottom. Remove from heat and pour into a heatproof bowl to cool slightly.
- Prepare Baking Sheets: Line baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside for later use.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl to ensure even distribution.
- Make Cookie Dough: In a large bowl, combine the cooled browned butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix until smooth. Beat in the eggs and vanilla bean paste until fully combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients and stir until a thick dough forms.
- Scoop and Chill: Scoop dough balls about ¼ cup each, roll them smooth, and place on the prepared baking sheets. Chill for 30 minutes to allow the dough to firm up for better baking results.
- Bake the Cookies: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake chilled dough balls for 12–14 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers look soft. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the Vanilla Bean Glaze (Optional): In a small bowl, whisk powdered sugar with vanilla bean paste. Add milk little by little until the mixture is smooth and pourable. Drizzle over cooled cookies using a piping bag or a zip-top bag cut at the corner. Add sprinkles or flaky sea salt if desired for extra texture and flavor.
Notes
- Browning the butter adds a deep, nutty flavor – watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Chilling the dough helps prevent cookies from spreading too much during baking.
- The glaze is optional but adds a delightful sweetness and decorative touch.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
