Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: These brown sugar cookies come together in just 20 minutes, with minimal prep and cleanup.

• Perfect texture: The cookies are soft and chewy with a slightly crispy edge, and their crackly tops add a delightful texture.

• Versatile flavor: The blend of brown butter and brown sugar provides a rich, warm flavor that melts in your mouth.

Ingredients

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

• Unsalted butter

• Brown sugar (light or dark)

• Large egg

• Large egg yolk

• Vanilla extract

• All-purpose flour

• Baking soda

• Fine sea salt

Directions

1. Melt half of the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat until it turns amber and develops a nutty aroma. Transfer to a bowl and let cool.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled brown butter, remaining softened butter, and brown sugar. Beat with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.

3. Add the egg, extra yolk, and vanilla extract, mixing for another minute.

4. Add the flour, salt, and baking soda to the mixture, then mix until well combined. Chill the dough for 30 minutes.

5. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

6. Scoop dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing cookies 2 inches apart. Bake for 10 minutes or until the edges are golden and the center is soft.

7. Allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 24 cookies

• Prep time: 20 minutes

• Cook time: 10 minutes

• Chill time: 30 minutes

• Total time: 1 hour

Variations

• Crystallized Sugar Coating: Roll dough balls in granulated white sugar before baking for extra crunch.

• Cinnamon Sugar: Coat the dough in cinnamon sugar for a spiced twist.

• Holiday Flare: Add a pinch of cinnamon or drizzle with white chocolate and festive sprinkles.

• Nutty Version: Press a halved pecan on top of each cookie before baking for added flavor and texture.

• Maple Glaze: Drizzle with maple glaze for a fall-inspired treat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

• Freezing: Freeze the cookies for up to 3 months in a sealed container or ziplock bag.

• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes to regain their soft texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

It’s best to use butter for the most authentic flavor and texture, but margarine can be used in a pinch.

2. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

3. How do I make these cookies thicker?

Add up to ¼ cup more flour and chill the dough for at least an hour to achieve thicker cookies.

4. Can I use brown sugar other than light brown sugar?

Yes, dark brown sugar will result in cookies with a stronger molasses flavor, but either type works well.

5. Do I need to chill the dough?

Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading and ensures the cookies maintain their chewy texture.

6. How can I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Make sure to chill the dough and line the baking sheets with parchment paper or a silicone mat.

7. Can I make these cookies without eggs?

Eggs help provide the chewy texture, but you can try a flax egg as a substitute for a similar result.

8. Can I freeze the dough before baking?

Yes, you can freeze the dough in cookie scoop portions, then bake directly from frozen, adding a minute or two to the bake time.

9. How can I tell when the cookies are done?

The edges should be golden brown, and the center should still be soft. The cookies will continue to set as they cool.

10. Can I add chocolate chips to this recipe?

Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips would make for a delightful twist on this classic cookie.

Conclusion

These chewy brown sugar cookies are everything you want in a cookie—soft, buttery, and perfectly spiced. With their simple ingredients and easy prep, they’re sure to become your go-to cookie recipe for any occasion. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven, or store them for a delicious treat throughout the week!

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