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Soft and Chewy Browned Butter Sugar Cookies

soft and chewy browned butter sugar cookies - featured image

These soft and chewy browned butter sugar cookies offer a perfect balance of a soft center and slightly crisp edges with a rich caramel-like flavor from browned butter. Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients, they are a comforting treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (2 sticks or 225g) unsalted butter, browned and cooled slightly
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • ½ cup (100g) light brown sugar, packed
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 ¼ cups (280g) all-purpose flour, sifted
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Place 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently as it melts, then starts to foam and turn golden brown (5-7 minutes). When you smell a nutty aroma and see small brown flecks, remove from heat and let cool about 5 minutes.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and browned butter. Use a handheld mixer or whisk until well combined and smooth, about 2 minutes.
  3. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the sugar and butter mixture. Mix until fully incorporated, about 1 minute.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed or folding with a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
  6. Optional but recommended: Cover the dough and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour to control spread and intensify flavor.
  7. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
  8. Use a cookie scoop or spoon to portion dough balls about 1 ½ tablespoons (20g) each. Place them 2 inches apart on the baking sheet.
  9. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until edges are lightly golden but centers still look soft. Do not overbake.
  10. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Use a light-colored pan to brown butter to monitor color and avoid burning. Chilling dough is optional but improves texture and flavor. Store cookies in an airtight container with a slice of bread to keep them soft longer. Avoid overbaking to maintain chewiness.

Nutrition

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