Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

Name: Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 cups chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delight in the rich, nutty flavor of these Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies, the perfect treat for any cookie lover.

Created by

Adele Summers

Last updated on 2025-12-21T06:05:57.625Z

These Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful twist on a classic favorite. The nutty aroma of brown butter combined with rich chocolate chips creates a cookie that is both comforting and indulgent.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with nutty brown butter
Perfectly chewy texture with a golden crisp edge
Ideal for sharing or enjoying with a glass of milk

      

The Magic of Brown Butter

Brown butter, or beurre noisette, is a simple yet transformative ingredient that elevates ordinary recipes to extraordinary levels. When butter is cooked until it turns a rich amber color, the milk solids caramelize, producing a nutty aroma and flavor profile that is simply irresistible. This technique infuses your cookies with complexity and depth, making every bite a delightful experience.

Using brown butter in these chocolate chip cookies not only enhances the taste but also adds a subtle elegance that sets them apart from traditional recipes. The nutty undertones harmonize beautifully with the sweetness of the chocolate chips, creating a well-balanced treat that will impress family and friends alike. Don't skip this step; it's the secret to cookie perfection!

Perfecting the Cookie Texture

Achieving the ideal texture in chocolate chip cookies is an art. The combination of brown and granulated sugar in this recipe plays a crucial role. Brown sugar adds moisture and chewiness, while granulated sugar contributes to a crisp edge. This dual-sugar approach ensures that your cookies have a delightful contrast between soft centers and slightly crunchy edges, making each bite a textural delight.

Furthermore, the use of all-purpose flour and the precise balance of baking soda and salt create the perfect structure and flavor. Be careful not to overmix the dough; this can lead to tough cookies. Instead, mix until just combined to preserve that ideal chewy texture. A little patience goes a long way when it comes to cookie success!

Cookies for Every Occasion

These Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies are not only a treat for yourself but also an excellent choice for sharing. Whether you're hosting a gathering, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving something sweet, these cookies are sure to please. Their rich flavor and appealing texture make them a hit with both kids and adults, making them a versatile addition to any dessert table.

Consider packaging these cookies as thoughtful gifts for friends and loved ones. A batch of freshly baked cookies in a decorative tin or box is a heartfelt gesture that shows you care. Pair them with a glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience that everyone will love.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

1 cup unsalted butter
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups chocolate chips

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Brown the Butter

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the butter turns golden brown and smells nutty. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Mix the Sugars

In a large bowl, combine the brown butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix until well combined. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, and mix until smooth.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate 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.

Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!

Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Storage Tips

To keep your Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to a week, maintaining their delicious flavor and chewy texture. If you want to enjoy them for a longer period, consider freezing them. Place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy a frozen cookie, simply let it thaw at room temperature or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds. This will bring back that freshly baked warmth and gooey chocolate goodness, making them a delightful treat anytime you have a craving.

Variations to Try

While the classic chocolate chip cookie is always a favorite, don’t hesitate to experiment with different mix-ins. For a fun twist, consider adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch. Alternatively, you can substitute some of the chocolate chips with white chocolate or butterscotch chips for a new flavor combination that’s equally delicious.

For those who enjoy a touch of spice, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of espresso powder to the dough. These additions can elevate the flavor profile and give your cookies a unique twist that will surprise and delight anyone who tries them.

Serving Suggestions

These cookies are fantastic on their own, but you can elevate your dessert experience by serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The warm cookies melt the ice cream slightly, creating a decadent dessert that’s hard to resist. Drizzle some chocolate or caramel sauce over the top for an extra indulgence.

If you're looking to impress at a gathering, consider serving these cookies alongside a selection of flavored coffees or hot cocoa. The rich, nutty flavors of the brown butter cookies pair beautifully with warm beverages, making for a cozy treat that’s perfect for any occasion.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but reduce the amount of added salt in the recipe.

→ How do I store the cookies?

Keep 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 3 months. Just scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag.

→ What kind of chocolate chips should I use?

You can use semisweet, dark, or milk chocolate chips depending on your preference.