Browned Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

Sharing is caring!

There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through your home. When those cookies are browned butter chocolate chip cookies, you’ve reached a new level of deliciousness. The nutty flavor of browned butter elevates the classic chocolate chip cookie to something extraordinary. Each bite is a perfect balance of chewy, crispy, and gooey—making these cookies a staple for cookie lovers everywhere.

Why This Browned Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies Stands Out

What makes browned butter chocolate chip cookies so special? It all begins with the process of browning the butter, which transforms the ordinary into the sublime. The butter is cooked until it reaches a golden brown color, developing a rich, nutty flavor that infuses the entire cookie. This simple step takes the typical chocolate chip cookie and adds depth and complexity, making every bite a delightful experience.

Not only do these cookies boast a unique flavor profile, but the texture is also something to rave about. With a crispy edge and a soft, chewy center, they are the perfect cookie for dunking in a glass of milk or enjoying on their own. Plus, the addition of both chocolate chips and chunks means you get a variety of chocolatey goodness in every bite.

Your Shopping Guide

Before you dive into baking, let’s ensure you have everything you need. Here’s a list of ingredients you’ll want to gather:

• 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks), room temperature (227 g): The star of the show, providing richness and flavor.
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed (200 g): Adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (10 ml): Enhances the sweetness and overall flavor.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100 g): Balances the brown sugar for a perfect sweetness.
• 2 large eggs: Provides structure and moisture.
• 1 large egg yolk: Extra richness for a chewy texture.
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (280 g): The base of the dough.
• 1 teaspoon salt (5 g): Enhances all the flavors.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda (5 g): Helps the cookies rise.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder (1 g): Adds to the fluffiness.
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (175 g): Classic chocolate goodness.
• 1/2 cup chocolate chunks (85 g): For a more decadent chocolate experience.
• Fine sea salt, or finishing salt for topping: A sprinkle on top for that perfect touch.

Prep & Cook Tools

Gathering the right tools makes the baking process smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Mixing bowls: For combining your ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Precision is key in baking!
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for scraping down the sides of your bowl.
• Cookie sheets: Ensure even baking; use parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• Cooling rack: Allows cookies to cool properly while maintaining their texture.
• Hand mixer or stand mixer: Makes creaming the butter and sugars a breeze.

Browned Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies — Do This Next

Ready to bake some mouthwatering browned butter chocolate chip cookies? Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Brown the Butter

Start by placing your unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir it occasionally as it melts. Continue cooking until the butter turns a golden brown color and develops a nutty aroma. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to burn it! Once browned, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 2: Mix the Sugars and Butter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the browned butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the mixture until it’s light and fluffy—about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs, egg yolk, and vanilla extract to the sugar mixture. Beat until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Step 5: Fold in the Chocolate

Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and chocolate chunks using a rubber spatula.

Step 6: Chill the Dough

For the best flavor and texture, cover the dough and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps the cookies to maintain their shape while baking.

Step 7: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your cookie sheets with parchment paper.

Step 8: Scoop the Dough

Once the dough has chilled, use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared cookie sheets, leaving enough space between each cookie.

Step 9: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers are still soft.

Step 10: Cool and Sprinkle

Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheets for about 5 minutes. Sprinkle with a pinch of fine sea salt before transferring to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Vegan & Vegetarian Swaps

If you’re looking for vegan alternatives, here are some suggested swaps:

• Butter: Use vegan butter or coconut oil in equal amounts.
• Eggs: Replace each egg with 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce or 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water.
• Granulated sugar: Ensure that the sugar is unrefined to maintain a vegan-friendly recipe.

Testing Timeline

If you’re curious about the timeline for these browned butter chocolate chip cookies, here’s a quick overview:

• Brown the butter: 5-7 minutes
• Mix and combine ingredients: 10-15 minutes
• Chill the dough: 30-60 minutes (or longer for enhanced flavor)
• Bake: 10-12 minutes
• Cooling time: 10 minutes before transferring to a rack

Save It for Later

These browned butter chocolate chip cookies can be stored for up to a week in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also freeze the dough for up to 3 months! Just scoop the dough into balls, freeze on a baking sheet, and then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, simply add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

Handy Q&A

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but if you do, reduce the added salt in the recipe to 1/2 teaspoon to balance the flavors.

What if I don’t have brown sugar?

You can use granulated sugar instead, but for a similar flavor, try mixing granulated sugar with a little molasses. Check out Chocolate Chip Cookies Without Brown Sugar for more ideas.

How do I know when my cookies are done baking?

The cookies should be golden brown around the edges and slightly soft in the center. They will continue to cook as they cool on the baking sheet.

Can I add nuts to the cookies?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans would be a fantastic addition for some extra crunch and flavor.

If you love baking, you might enjoy these delicious recipes:

Final Thoughts

Baking browned butter chocolate chip cookies is not just about the final product; it’s about the joy of creating something delicious that can be shared with family and friends. The rich flavor of browned butter paired with the sweetness of chocolate makes for an unforgettable treat. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, these cookies are sure to impress. So tie on that apron, grab your ingredients, and let’s get baking!