Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Enhanced Flavor: The browned butter imparts a nutty, caramel-like taste that enriches the overall flavor profile.
• Perfect Texture: Enjoy a harmonious blend of chewy centers and slightly crispy edges.
• Gourmet Touch: A sprinkle of sea salt flakes adds a sophisticated sweet-salty contrast.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
• 1 cup packed dark brown sugar
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup dark chocolate chunks (optional)
• Sea salt flakes for sprinkling (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Brown the Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, stirring continuously. Once it turns golden brown and emits a nutty aroma, remove from heat and let cool for about 10 minutes.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cream Sugars and Butter: Combine the cooled brown butter with brown and granulated sugars until smooth and slightly fluffy.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then add vanilla extract.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
6. Fold in Chocolate: Gently fold in chocolate chips and chunks.
7. Chill Dough: For thicker cookies, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes.
8. Preheat Oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
9. Shape and Bake: Scoop dough onto the baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until edges are golden brown.
10. Add Sea Salt: After baking, sprinkle cookies with sea salt flakes if desired. Let cool before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 24 cookies
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
• Chill Time: 30 minutes (optional)
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour

Variations

• Nutty Addition: Incorporate chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
• Different Chocolates: Experiment with milk or white chocolate chips.
• Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
• Freezing Dough: Freeze scooped dough balls on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to baking time.
• Reheating: Warm cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes to refresh their texture.

FAQs

How does browning butter enhance the flavor of the cookies?

Browning butter caramelizes the milk solids, introducing a rich, nutty flavor that deepens the cookie’s taste.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to prevent over-salting.

Is chilling the dough necessary?

Chilling is optional but helps control spread and enhances flavor.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, refrigerate the dough for up to 48 hours before baking.

How do I prevent cookies from spreading too much?

Ensure the dough is adequately chilled and avoid overmixing the batter.

What’s the purpose of adding sea salt flakes on top?

Sea salt enhances the sweet flavors and adds a pleasant texture contrast.

Can I substitute baking powder for baking soda?

Baking soda is preferred for this recipe to achieve the desired texture.

How do I know when the cookies are done?

Edges should be golden brown, and centers slightly soft—they’ll firm up as they cool.

Can I add other mix-ins to the dough?

Absolutely! Consider dried fruits, toffee bits, or shredded coconut.

Why did my cookies turn out flat?

This could be due to warm dough or insufficient flour. Ensure proper measurements and chilling time.

Conclusion

Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies offer a delectable upgrade to the classic cookie, combining rich flavors with a satisfying texture. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or saved for later, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.