Introduction to Chewy Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
Why choose chewy brown butter chocolate chip cookies?
If you’re on a quest for the ultimate cookie experience, chewy brown butter chocolate chip cookies should top your list. Brown butter adds a rich, nutty flavor that elevates these cookies beyond your average treat. The unique texture is achieved by the perfect bake—crisp edges with a soft, gooey center. Every bite is an explosion of flavor and comfort, making them an ideal choice for everything from casual snack breaks to special gatherings.
The joy of homemade cookies vs. store-bought
There’s something profoundly satisfying about baking at home. While store-bought cookies promise convenience, they often fall short on freshness and flavor. Homemade cookies allow for creative expression and customization. Plus, the aroma wafting through your kitchen while these cookies bake is simply irresistible. It’s a joyous experience that transcends just eating a cookie; it’s about creating memories with friends and family.
So, grab your ingredients and get ready to whip up a batch of these incredibly chewy brown butter chocolate chip cookies that you—and everyone around you—will love! Want to dive deeper into the specifics of crafting this sweet delight? Check out the full recipe below!
Ingredients for Chewy Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
Essential ingredients
To create the chewy brown butter chocolate chip cookies that everyone raves about, you’ll need a handful of essential ingredients:
- Salted Butter: 10 tablespoons of salted butter give the cookies a rich, nutty flavor when browned.
- All-Purpose Flour: 1 ½ cups for that perfect chewy texture.
- Baking Soda and Salt: These two ingredients aid in leavening and flavor balance.
- Sugars: A mix of ⅔ cup light brown sugar and ⅓ cup granulated sugar adds depth and sweetness.
- Egg and Milk: One large egg at room temperature and 1 tablespoon of milk help bind everything together.
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon of high-quality pure vanilla extract elevates the overall flavor.
- Chocolate: Use 3 oz of coarsely chopped dark chocolate and ½ cup of semisweet chocolate chips to make your cookies truly indulgent.
Recommended brands and alternatives
Choosing high-quality ingredients can make a difference! For butter, go for Kerrygold for its richness. When it comes to dark chocolate, Callebaut is a fantastic option, known for its quality and flavor. If you're looking for chocolate chips, Guittard and Ghirardelli are reliable choices. Need a substitute for vanilla extract? Try using pure almond extract for a different twist.
Don’t forget to measure accurately! A kitchen scale can help ensure your cookies don’t spread too much. Happy baking!
Step-by-Step Preparation for Chewy Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
Brown the Butter
The first step in creating those irresistibly chewy brown butter chocolate chip cookies is to brown the butter. Start by placing 10 tablespoons of salted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. As the butter melts, it will foam before turning a beautiful golden brown. You'll know it’s ready when you see tiny brown specks forming at the bottom and it gives off a nutty aroma. This process should take about 8-10 minutes. Once done, pour the brown butter into a mixing bowl and let it cool for 20 to 30 minutes until it's just slightly warmer than room temperature.
Combine the Dry Ingredients
While the butter is cooling, you can combine the dry ingredients. In a medium bowl, mix together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, ¾ teaspoon of baking soda, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Whisk them together until they are evenly blended. This step helps to ensure that the baking soda is distributed uniformly throughout the flour, aiding in the rise and texture of the cookies.
Mix the Sugars with Brown Butter
Once your brown butter has cooled, it's time to mix it with the sugars. Add ⅔ cup of packed light brown sugar and ⅓ cup of granulated sugar to the bowl. Using a spatula, gently mix until the mixture resembles thick wet sand. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment for about 20 seconds on medium speed.
Incorporate the Wet Ingredients
Next, add in the egg, 1 tablespoon of milk, and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract to the bowl. Stir until these ingredients are well combined and creamy in texture. Be careful not to mix too vigorously, as you want to maintain that smooth consistency without firming up the butterfat.
Fold in Flour and Chocolate
Gradually fold in your dry mixture, mixing until it's almost combined. Just before all the flour is incorporated, add 3 oz of chopped dark chocolate and ½ cup of semisweet chocolate chips. This ensures an even distribution of chocolate throughout your dough. Now, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the dough in the refrigerator for 2 hours (or a minimum of 1 hour if you're pressed for time).
Get Ready to Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F and line two large cookie sheets with parchment paper. This step is crucial—it ensures your cookies don’t stick and they bake evenly.
Portion and Bake Cookies
Using a 1.35-oz cookie scoop, portion the chilled dough into 14 balls, rolling them smooth. Place them about 3 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. If you fancy a bit extra chocolate, press some additional chocolate chunks on top. Bake for 8-10 minutes until they are golden on the edges, soft in the middle, and starting to brown on top.
Cool and Sprinkle with Sea Salt
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack. For that gourmet touch, sprinkle a little flaky sea salt on top while they’re still warm. This final addition really enhances the flavors, making your chewy brown butter chocolate chip cookies irresistible! Enjoy every last bite!
Variations for Chewy Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
Nut Additions
Elevate your chewy brown butter chocolate chip cookies by incorporating nuts! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or macadamia nuts add a delightful crunch and depth of flavor. Roughly ½ cup of your favorite nut, mixed in right before spooning the dough onto baking sheets, can make all the difference.
Different Chocolate Types
Experimenting with chocolate can take these cookies to the next level! Try using a mix of dark, milk, or even white chocolate for a unique flavor profile. You might also consider Belgian chocolate for a richer taste. Variety is the spice of life, after all!
Gluten-Free Options
For those with dietary restrictions, gluten-free flour blends are a fantastic substitute. Brands like Bob's Red Mill or King Arthur make reliable gluten-free products that can yield an equally delicious texture. Just remember to add a touch of xanthan gum to help bind the ingredients together. Enjoy your indulgence, worry-free!
Looking to get creative with your chewy brown butter chocolate chip cookies? These variations will ensure that you have a delightful treat tailored to your preferences!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Chewy Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
Importance of Chilling Dough
Chilling the dough is crucial for achieving the perfect chewy brown butter chocolate chip cookies. When you refrigerate the dough for at least two hours, it allows the ingredients to meld together, enhancing the flavors and preventing excessive spreading during baking. This step also helps the cookies maintain their thick shape and guarantees that delightful gooey center.
How to Achieve the Perfect Chewy Texture
To ensure utmost chewiness, use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour if you have it—it contains higher protein, which contributes to that desired texture. Additionally, underbake the cookies slightly; they should look soft and just set in the center when you pull them from the oven. They'll firm up while cooling, resulting in those irresistible crispy edges and soft centers. Don't forget to select high-quality chocolate for an extra flavor boost!
For more insights on cookie science, check out Serious Eats for in-depth baking techniques.
Serving Suggestions for Chewy Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
Best Pairings
When it comes to savoring your chewy brown butter chocolate chip cookies, consider pairing them with a cool glass of milk or a rich cup of coffee to balance the sweetness. For a modern twist, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream, creating a delightful sundae experience. If you're feeling adventurous, try them with a vibrant fruit compote; the tartness of berries complements the cookies' nutty flavor beautifully!
Presentation Ideas
Make your cookies stand out by stacking a few on a rustic wooden board. Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top for that gourmet touch. Placing them in a charming cookie jar, or wrapping them individually in parchment paper tied with twine, can also add a personal flair—perfect for gifting or sharing with friends! For a festive touch, decorate your cookie platter with seasonal fruits or edible flowers for an eye-catching display.
Looking for an inspiration boost? Check out some creative serving styles on sites like Taste of Home or Food Network!
Time Breakdown for Chewy Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
Preparation Time
With just 10 minutes of active prep, you’ll be whisking away in no time! This includes browning the butter and mixing the ingredients to create a delicious dough.
Baking Time
Once your dough is ready, expect a 10-minute baking time per batch. Keep a close eye on those cookies as they bake to ensure perfect gooey centers and crispy edges.
Total Time
Considering the chilling time for your dough, the overall process for these chewy brown butter chocolate chip cookies will take around 2 hours and 20 minutes. However, with prep and baking combined, you only need about 20 minutes of hands-on time. Perfect for a weekend baking session, don’t you think?
Nutritional Facts for Chewy Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
Calories per cookie
Each of these delicious chewy brown butter chocolate chip cookies contains approximately 150 calories. They’re rich and satisfying, making them a perfect treat when you want something sweet without overindulging.
Key nutrients
Packed with important nutrients, these cookies provide a delightful balance of:
- Carbohydrates: Offering energy.
- Fats: From the brown butter, they add flavor and texture.
- Protein: Sourced from the egg, supporting muscle health.
With a thoughtful mix of ingredients, these cookies strike a tasty balance between indulgence and enjoyment. Give them a try, and you may just discover your new favorite treat!
FAQs about Chewy Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
What makes these cookies chewy?
The secret to chewy brown butter chocolate chip cookies lies in the brown butter itself, which adds a rich, nutty flavor. Additionally, mixing techniques and a proper balance of brown sugar to granulated sugar keep the cookies moist while ensuring a chewy texture. Furthermore, chilling the dough allows the flavors to meld and results in a thicker cookie that stays chewy after baking.
Can I freeze the dough?
Absolutely! Freezing the dough is a great option for enjoying fresh cookies later. Simply scoop the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet to freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the cookie balls to a resealable bag and store them in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to bake, just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
How do I store the cookies effectively?
To maintain that scrumptious chewiness, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for about a week! If you want to extend their shelf life, consider refrigerating them. Just be sure they’re completely cool before sealing them away to prevent moisture buildup.
Feel free to check out more tips on cookie storage at The Kitchn.
Conclusion on Chewy Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
In summary, these chewy brown butter chocolate chip cookies are a must-try for any baking enthusiast. Their rich flavor profile, complemented by the nuttiness of brown butter, creates a delightful treat that’s perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself! Enjoy the process, share with friends, and indulge in every gooey bite!
For more delicious recipes and baking tips, check out Bon Appétit and Serious Eats.
The BEST Chewy Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
Equipment
- 1-quart stainless steel saucepan
- mixing bowl
- stand mixer with paddle attachment
- large cookie sheets
- parchment paper
- cookie scoop
- digital thermometer
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 10 tablespoon salted butter
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour measure accurately or the cookies will spread too much
- 0.75 teaspoon baking soda see notes in FAQ section regarding adjustments for taller cookies
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 0.67 cup packed light brown sugar
- 0.33 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg at room temperature
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract for best flavor
- 3 oz dark chocolate coarsely chopped into chunks plus extra for topping
- 0.5 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- flaky sea salt optional for topping
Instructions
Preparation Instructions
- First brown the butter. Follow the instructions in this post here to learn how to brown butter in a 1-quart stainless steel saucepan. It takes around 8-10 minutes. Let it cool for 20-30 minutes until it reaches a temperature just warmer than room temperature.
- Combine flour, baking soda and salt in a medium bowl and whisk well to blend evenly.
- Combine cooled brown butter with both sugars in a large bowl and mix gently with a spatula. It should look thick like thick wet sand.
- Add the egg, milk and vanilla and mix until well incorporated and creamy-looking.
- Add flour mixture and fold it in or mix on low just until mostly combined, then add the chocolate chunks and chips and continue mixing until they are evenly distributed. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the dough for 1-4 hours.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Line two large cookie sheets with parchment paper.
- Use a 1.35-oz cookie scoop to portion dough into 14 pieces and roll into smooth balls. Place them onto prepared baking sheets, spacing them 3 inches apart. Press a few extra chunks of chocolate on top if you wish. Do not flatten.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until golden on top, browned around the edges and soft in the middle. Let cookies cool on baking sheet for 2 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to finish cooling.
- Top with flaky sea salt if you wish and enjoy!
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