Description
These Brown Butter Sugar Cookies are a rich and flavorful twist on classic sugar cookies, featuring the nutty depth of browned butter. Soft and chewy with a slightly crisp edge, they are perfect for any occasion and can be decorated with sprinkles for added fun.
Ingredients
Scale
Brown Butter Mixture
- 1 cup (16 Tbsp; 226g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups + 2 Tbsp (265g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
Sugar Mixture
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
- ¾ cup (150g) light brown sugar
Wet Ingredients
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Optional
- Sprinkles for decoration
Instructions
- Brown the Butter: Slice the unsalted butter into pieces and place it in a light-colored skillet. Melt over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the butter turns a rich golden brown and releases a nutty aroma, about 5-8 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined. Set aside.
- Mix Sugars with Butter: Add the granulated sugar and light brown sugar to the cooled browned butter. Beat together until just combined; the mixture might look slightly grainy, which is normal.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Incorporate the large egg and vanilla extract into the sugar and butter mixture. Mix until fully combined. The batter may not appear completely smooth, which is expected.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until no flour pockets remain and the dough is thick. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
- Prepare Cookie Dough Balls: Roll the dough into 1 tablespoon-sized balls. Optionally, dip each ball in sprinkles for decoration. Arrange the dough balls on a tray and refrigerate for 30 minutes to help maintain their shape during baking.
- Bake the Cookies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chilled dough balls on baking sheets spaced apart. Bake for 12-13 minutes until the edges are lightly golden brown. While the cookies may feel soft when first removed, allow them to cool on a rack to firm up.
Notes
- Using a light-colored skillet is important to accurately see the butter browning process.
- Chilling the dough is crucial to prevent spreading and maintain cookie shape.
- Do not overmix the dough to avoid tough cookies.
- Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
