Description
These Hazelnut Sea Salt Brown Butter Cookies feature a rich, nutty flavor from browned butter combined with the indulgent sweetness of Nutella drizzled on top. Enhanced with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, these cookies offer a delightful balance of sweet and savory, perfect for a special treat or sharing with friends.
Ingredients
Brown Butter
- 1 cup unsalted butter
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
Topping
- Nutella (for drizzling)
- Flaky sea salt (for sprinkling)
Instructions
- Make the Brown Butter: Add butter to a saucepan over medium heat. Swirl and stir frequently until the butter foams, turns golden, and smells nutty, about 3 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat and pour into a bowl to cool slightly before using.
- Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to evenly combine the leavening agents and salt.
- Make the Cookie Dough: In a separate large bowl, beat the browned butter with brown sugar and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well until fully incorporated. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a thick, cohesive dough forms.
- Shape and Chill Dough: Using a large cookie scoop (about ¼ cup), scoop portions of dough and roll into balls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and chill for 30 minutes to allow the dough to firm up. This helps the cookies bake thick and chewy.
- Bake the Cookies: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange six cookie dough balls per baking tray, leaving space between each. Bake for 12 to 14 minutes, until the edges are set and the centers remain slightly soft. Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Add the Nutella Drizzle: Microwave a portion of Nutella for 15 to 20 seconds until smooth and fluid. Transfer the warmed Nutella to a piping bag or a zip-top plastic bag with a small corner snipped off. Drizzle the Nutella over the cooled cookies. Finally, sprinkle lightly with flaky sea salt to enhance the flavor. Let the drizzle set before serving.
Notes
- Browning the butter adds a deep, nutty flavor to the cookies that elevates their taste significantly.
- Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading and ensures thick, chewy cookies.
- Use high-quality flaky sea salt for the best texture and flavor contrast.
- Allow Nutella to set completely after drizzling before stacking or storing the cookies to avoid smudging.
- These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
