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Brown Butter Sugar Cookies Recipe

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4.1 from 1 review

These brown butter sugar cookies feature a delightful contrast with crispy edges and a chewy, under-baked center. Rich brown butter, combined with a blend of granulated and light brown sugars, creates a deep, nutty flavor that perfectly complements the soft, chewy texture. Chill the dough to intensify flavors and achieve the perfect consistency before baking at 350°F for a satisfying homemade treat.

Ingredients

Cookie Dough

  • 1 cup unsalted brown butter, room temperature
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • ¾ cup light brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon lemon juice (optional)
  • 2 cups all purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt

For Topping

  • Sparkling sugar, for topping

Instructions

  1. Cream Butter and Sugars: Using a stand or hand mixer, cream together the brown butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and creamy.
  2. Add Eggs and Extracts: Add in the eggs, vanilla extract, almond extract, and lemon juice, then beat for 3-4 minutes until the mixture is light, fluffy, and much paler in color.
  3. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Add the flour, baking soda, and kosher salt to the wet ingredients and mix until thoroughly combined. The dough should be wet and sticky.
  4. Form Dough Balls: Spoon a generous 3 tablespoons of dough and roll into balls. If desired, roll the tops in sparkling sugar for added texture and sweetness.
  5. Chill Dough: Cover the dough and refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours or overnight to enhance flavor and dough firmness.
  6. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a light-colored baking sheet with parchment paper.
  7. Arrange Dough on Sheet: Place dough balls at least 2-3 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. Only bake 6 cookies at a time on a half sheet pan due to spreading. Keep remaining dough refrigerated while baking batches.
  8. Bake Cookies: Bake on the center rack for 9-11 minutes, or until edges are set and centers remain soft and slightly under-baked.
  9. Cool Cookies: Remove from oven and let cookies rest on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • Chilling the dough is essential for flavor development and cookie texture.
  • Rolling dough tops in sparkling sugar adds a beautiful crunch and sparkle.
  • Use room temperature ingredients for best mixing results.
  • Do not overbake to maintain the desired chewy center.
  • Light-colored baking sheets help prevent over-browning on the bottom of the cookies.