Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Indulge in the rich, nutty flavor of brown butter combined with classic chocolate chips in these delightful cookies.
The aroma of brown butter fills the kitchen as these cookies bake to perfection. With a crispy edge and a chewy center, they are a true treat for any chocolate lover.
Why You'll Love These Cookies
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with nutty brown butter
- Chewy texture with a crispy edge
- Perfect for sharing or enjoying with a glass of milk
The Magic of Brown Butter
Brown butter, or beurre noisette, is a culinary treasure that transforms the flavor profile of your dishes. When butter is heated, the milk solids begin to caramelize, resulting in a rich, nutty aroma and a golden hue. This simple technique elevates the taste of chocolate chip cookies, adding depth and complexity that regular butter cannot achieve. The warm, toasted notes of brown butter complement the sweetness of chocolate chips beautifully, making every bite a delightful experience.
Incorporating brown butter into your recipes is an easy way to impress family and friends. Its unique flavor can enhance everything from sauces to baked goods. Plus, it's a versatile ingredient that pairs well with a variety of flavors, such as nuts, fruits, and spices. Embracing brown butter in these cookies will leave you craving more, as it provides a gourmet touch to a beloved classic.
Chewy and Crispy Perfection
The ideal chocolate chip cookie strikes a balance between chewy and crispy. With this recipe, you can achieve that perfect texture that cookie lovers adore. The combination of brown sugar and granulated sugar not only sweetens the cookies but also contributes to their chewy center. Meanwhile, the crispy edges provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft interior.
Baking these cookies at the right temperature and for the right duration is key to achieving that perfect texture. By keeping an eye on them as they bake, you can ensure they come out just right. Remember, the cookies will continue to cook slightly even after being removed from the oven, so it's best to take them out when the edges are golden brown but the centers still look a little underbaked.
Perfect Pairings
These brown butter chocolate chip cookies are not only delicious on their own but also pair wonderfully with various accompaniments. A glass of cold milk is a classic choice, enhancing the cookie's rich flavors and providing a nostalgic experience. For an adult twist, consider pairing them with a rich stout or a glass of red wine, which can complement the deep flavors of the cookies.
If you want to elevate your dessert experience, serve these cookies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast between the warm, gooey cookie and the cold ice cream creates a delightful sensation that's hard to resist. Additionally, you can sprinkle a touch of sea salt on top before serving to enhance the flavors even further.
Ingredients
For the Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chocolate chips
Make sure to measure the ingredients accurately for the best results.
Instructions
Brown the Butter
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the butter turns golden brown and smells nutty, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the brown butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.
Bake the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
Enjoy your cookies warm, or store them in an airtight container for later!
Tips for Success
To ensure your brown butter chocolate chip cookies turn out perfectly, start by using high-quality ingredients. Opt for fresh eggs and premium chocolate chips, as they will significantly impact the final flavor of your cookies. Additionally, be mindful of the temperature of your ingredients; room temperature eggs blend more easily into the batter, leading to a smoother texture.
When measuring your flour, use the spoon-and-level method to avoid packing it down, which can result in dry cookies. Lightly spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife for the best results.
Storing and Freezing
If you find yourself with leftover cookies, storing them properly is essential to maintain their freshness. Place the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Allow the cookies to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
To enjoy your frozen cookies, simply remove them from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. For a warm treat, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to restore their gooey goodness.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to balance the flavors.
→ 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?
Absolutely! You can freeze the dough for up to three months. Just scoop it into balls and freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag.
→ What can I substitute for chocolate chips?
Feel free to use nuts, dried fruits, or different types of chocolate chips based on your preference.
Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
Indulge in the rich, nutty flavor of brown butter combined with classic chocolate chips in these delightful cookies.
Created by: Harper Collins
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
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
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chocolate chips
How-To Steps
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the butter turns golden brown and smells nutty, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
In a large bowl, combine the brown butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
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