Brown Butter Potato Chip Cookies have become one of my favorite treats. Their rich, nutty flavor combined with the salty crunch of potato chips creates a unique experience that’s hard to resist. It’s fascinating to see how simple ingredients can transform into something so extraordinary. If you’re curious about how to make these cookies and what makes them truly special, I’ve got plenty to share. Let’s explore the process and tips for achieving the perfect batch.
What kind of recipe is it?
The Brown Butter Potato Chip Cookie is a unique dessert that combines the rich, nutty flavor of brown butter with the delightful crunch of potato chips, resulting in an unexpected yet irresistible treat.
These cookies are sweet and savory, offering a comforting bite that appeals to both cookie lovers and snack enthusiasts alike. Perfect for baking aficionados looking to impress guests or anyone in search of a new, delightful twist on classic cookies, this recipe is sure to become a crowd favorite at any gathering.
Preparation Time
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Difficulty of the Recipe | Moderate |
| Preparation Time | 15 minutes (plus cooling time) |
| Number of Servings | 24 cookies |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Unsalted Butter | 1 cup (2 sticks) |
| Granulated Sugar | 1 cup |
| Brown Sugar | 1 cup packed |
| Large Eggs | 2 eggs |
| Vanilla Extract | 2 teaspoons |
| All-Purpose Flour | 2 ½ cups |
| Baking Soda | 1 teaspoon |
| Baking Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Potato Chips | 2 cups (roughly crushed) |
| Chocolate Chips (optional) | 1 cup (semi-sweet or dark) |
Essential Kitchen Equipment
| Tool/Equipment | Purpose | Alternative Option |
|---|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls (large and medium) | To mix the wet ingredients and dry ingredients separately before combining them. It helps in preventing clumps and ensures even distribution. | Use any large container or bowl available at home, such as a large pot or salad bowl. |
| Measuring Cups (dry and liquid) | To accurately measure the quantities of flour, sugars, and liquids like eggs and vanilla extract, essential for the right cookie texture. | Use a standard cup from your kitchen; just ensure it’s consistent for all measurements. |
| Measuring Spoons | To measure small quantities of ingredients like baking soda, baking powder, and salt, ensuring the correct chemical ratios for proper baking. | Use a regular spoon (such as a tablespoon or teaspoon) and adjust based on approximate measurement (e.g., rounded or heaping). |
| Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer | To thoroughly cream together butter and sugars, which incorporates air into the dough for better texture. Alternatively, can be used to mix in flour and other dry ingredients. | Mix by hand using a wooden spoon or rubber spatula, though it may take more time and effort. |
| Rubber Spatula | To scrape down the sides of the mixing bowl, ensuring all ingredients are well combined and nothing is left behind. Useful for folding in the potato chips. | A wooden spoon or any sturdy spoon can be used to mix but may not be as effective in scraping. |
| Wooden Spoon | Helps in mixing and incorporating ingredients together. It’s sturdy and great for stirring the dough as you combine the ingredients. | Plastic or silicone spoons can be used as alternatives, but they may not be as durable. |
| Baking Sheets (2-3) | Essential for placing cookies while baking; ideally, you want more than one to allow for multiple batches without waiting. | Use any flat oven-safe tray or even a cast iron pan as long as it’s appropriately sized for your oven. |
| Parchment Paper or Silicone Mats | Prevents cookies from sticking to the baking sheets, aiding in easy removal and cleanup afterward. | Lightly greasing the baking sheets with butter or oil can be a budget-friendly alternative, though it may leave a residue. |
| Cookie Scoop or Spoon | For portioning out cookie dough evenly, helping create uniform-sized cookies that bake evenly. | Use a regular tablespoon to scoop dough, but keep in mind that size consistency may vary. |
| Cooling Rack | Allows cookies to cool down evenly and prevents them from becoming soggy by allowing airflow underneath. | Place cookies on the counter or a plate to cool, flipping them over occasionally if not using a rack, though this may affect texture. |
| Oven Thermometer | Ensures the oven is at the right temperature for baking, which is crucial for cookie accuracy and preventing burnt or undercooked cookies. | If unavailable, preheat the oven for an extended period to mitigate discrepancies, but results may vary. |
Cooking Steps
- Begin with mise en place: measure and prepare all ingredients, ensuring that you have 170 g (¾ cup) unsalted butter, 100 g (½ cup) granulated sugar, 100 g (½ cup) packed brown sugar, 1 large egg, 5 ml (1 tsp) vanilla extract, 200 g (1½ cups) all-purpose flour, 5 g (1 tsp) baking soda, 2 g (½ tsp) salt, and 150 g (1½ cups) potato chips.
- Preheat your oven to 180 °C (350 °F) and position the oven rack in the middle. If using a convection oven, reduce the temperature to 165 °C (330 °F).
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir continuously until the butter turns a golden brown color and emits a nutty aroma, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let cool for about 10 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cooled brown butter until smooth.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- In another mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix.
- Gently fold in the potato chips using a rubber spatula until they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Line 2 baking sheets (approximately 30 x 40 cm or 12 x 16 in) with parchment paper or silicone mats.
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough, spaced about 5 cm (2 in) apart, onto the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, rotating the baking sheets halfway through to ensure even baking.
- The cookies should be golden around the edges and slightly soft in the center, with a fragrant aroma filling your kitchen.
- Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool for 5 minutes on the sheets before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely at room temperature for about 30 minutes to one hour before serving.
- Enjoy the crispy edges with a chewy center.
Variations
- Nutty Delight: Substitute half of the potato chips with chopped nuts (e.g., pecans or walnuts) for added crunch and flavor.
- Chocolate Chip Twist: Add 150 g (1 cup) of chocolate chips to the dough for a sweet chocolatey contrast to the salty potato chips.
- Gluten-Free Goodness: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend (200 g or 1½ cups) to make the cookies suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use a dairy-free butter alternative in place of unsalted butter for a vegan-friendly and dairy-free version.
- Pumpkin Spice Treat: Incorporate 100 g (½ cup) of pumpkin puree and 2.5 g (1 tsp) of pumpkin spice into the dough for a seasonal fall flavor.
- Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: Sprinkle a mix of cinnamon and sugar on top of the cookies before baking for an extra layer of flavor.
- Coconut Surprise: Add 100 g (1 cup) of shredded coconut to the dough for a tropical twist that complements the salty and sweet flavors.
- Microwave Cookie Mug: Combine all ingredients in a microwave-safe mug and microwave for 40-60 seconds for a quick, single-serving cookie treat.
Tips on plating and presentation
Creating delicious Brown Butter Potato Chip Cookies is just the first step; how you present them can elevate the entire experience.
I recommend using simple plating techniques, like stacking the cookies and adding a dusting of sea salt on top for visual appeal.
You might also consider using colorful plates or garnishes, which can make your cookies truly stand out and impress your guests.
What other dishes can I pair it with?
Have you ever wondered what dishes can complement the rich, nutty flavor of Brown Butter Potato Chip Cookies?
For delightful dessert pairings, try serving them alongside vanilla ice cream or a warm chocolate lava cake.
If you’re looking for snack ideas, pair them with a side of homemade caramel popcorn or dark chocolate dipped pretzels.
These combinations elevate the sweet and savory experience!
What drinks can I pair it with?
Whether you’re enjoying Brown Butter Potato Chip Cookies as a sweet treat or a snack, choosing the right drink can enhance their unique flavor.
I love pairing them with cold milk alternatives like almond or oat milk for a nutty twist.
For a more indulgent option, a glass of dessert wine complements the richness and savory notes perfectly.
Try it—you won’t regret it!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Freeze These Cookies for Later Use?
Absolutely, I freeze cookies all the time! For cookie storage, just make sure they’re completely cooled, then wrap them tightly in plastic. It’s an easy way to enjoy them later without losing flavor.
How Long Do These Cookies Stay Fresh?
These cookies stay fresh for about a week when stored in an airtight container. I recommend keeping them away from heat and moisture to maintain their cookie freshness for as long as possible. Enjoy!
What Type of Potatoes Are Best for the Chips?
I’ve found that Russet potatoes work best for chips because they’re starchy and crisp up nicely. However, Yukon Gold also makes a delicious alternative, offering a buttery flavor that can elevate your next snack!
Can I Substitute the Brown Butter With Regular Butter?
Yes, you can substitute the brown butter with regular butter. I recommend browning the regular butter first for a nuttier flavor. Just keep in mind there might be texture differences in your chocolate chip variations.
Are There Any Nut-Free Alternatives for This Recipe?
Yes, I’ve found some great nut-free options! You can swap in sunflower seed butter or pumpkin seed butter. These ingredient swaps maintain flavor and texture without compromising your cookie’s deliciousness. Enjoy experimenting!