Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Indulge in the rich, nutty flavor of brown butter combined with gooey chocolate chips in these delightful cookies.
These Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies are a perfect blend of flavor and texture. The brown butter adds a depth of flavor that elevates the classic chocolate chip cookie to new heights!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with nutty brown butter
- Chewy texture with crispy edges
- Perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own
The Magic of Brown Butter
Brown butter, or 'beurre noisette' as it's known in French, is a culinary treasure that elevates any recipe it graces. The process involves melting butter until the milk solids caramelize, creating a rich, nutty flavor that enhances the taste of baked goods. This unique flavor profile is what sets these chocolate chip cookies apart from traditional recipes. When you take that first bite, you’ll notice the depth of flavor that only brown butter can provide.
Not only does brown butter add a distinctive taste, but it also contributes to the overall texture of the cookies. The slight toffee-like notes from the browned milk solids create a perfect contrast to the sweet chocolate chips, creating a symphony of flavors in every mouthful. Whether you're an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, mastering the art of brown butter will undoubtedly elevate your cookie game.
Perfectly Chewy Cookies
Achieving the ideal cookie texture is a crucial aspect of baking, and this recipe delivers on that front. The combination of brown sugar and granulated sugar creates a chewy interior while the brown butter contributes to slightly crispy edges. This delightful contrast makes each bite an experience to cherish. The key is in the baking time; underbake them just a touch to ensure they remain soft in the center.
Another tip for achieving that perfect chewiness is to let the dough rest for at least 30 minutes before baking. This allows the flour to fully hydrate and the sugars to dissolve, leading to a better texture. If you can resist the temptation, letting the dough chill in the fridge overnight will further enhance the flavors, giving your cookies a rich, complex taste.
Sharing the Love
These brown butter chocolate chip cookies are not only perfect for indulging yourself but also great for sharing with friends and family. Whether it’s a casual gathering, a holiday celebration, or just a cozy night in, these cookies will surely impress. Bake a batch to take to a potluck, or wrap them up as a thoughtful gift for a loved one. They’re sure to be a hit!
Moreover, these cookies freeze wonderfully. Make a double batch and freeze half of the dough in scooped portions. When you're craving something sweet, simply bake them straight from the freezer, adjusting the baking time slightly. This way, you always have a delicious treat on hand, ready to enjoy at a moment's notice!
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!
Instructions
Instructions
Brown the Butter
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Continue cooking until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Mix the Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar and granulated sugar with the brown butter. Mix until well combined.
Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
Fold in Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Bake the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Drop cookie dough by tablespoonfuls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
Cool and Enjoy
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy your freshly baked cookies with a glass of milk!
Baking Tips for Success
To ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time, measure your ingredients accurately. Using a kitchen scale can help you achieve precise measurements, especially with flour. Fluff up the flour in its container before spooning it into your measuring cup to avoid packing it down, which can lead to dense cookies.
Additionally, be mindful of your oven temperature. An oven thermometer can help you verify that your oven is at the correct temperature, as even small variations can affect baking time and cookie texture. Rotate your baking sheet halfway through baking for even cooking.
Variations to Try
Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate chips in this recipe. Dark chocolate chips, milk chocolate, or even a mix of both can change the flavor profile significantly. You can also add nuts like walnuts or pecans for an added crunch and flavor dimension.
For a fun twist, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the cookies just before baking. This contrast of sweet and salty amplifies the flavors and creates a gourmet touch that you'll love.
Storage Instructions
To keep your cookies fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay soft and chewy for up to a week. If you prefer a firmer texture, you can store them in the refrigerator.
For longer storage, freeze your baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be kept frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature or reheat them in the oven for a few minutes.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, just reduce the added salt in the recipe.
→ What can I substitute for brown sugar?
You can use white sugar, but the flavor will be less rich.
→ How should I store the cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Just scoop and freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag.
Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
Indulge in the rich, nutty flavor of brown butter combined with gooey chocolate chips in these delightful cookies.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 24 cookies
What You'll Need
For the Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
How-To Steps
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Continue cooking until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar and granulated sugar with the brown butter. Mix until well combined.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
Gently fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Drop cookie dough by tablespoonfuls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g