I’ve recently been experimenting with Brown Butter Iced Sugar Cookies, and I find their unique flavor truly enticing. The nutty essence of brown butter adds an unexpected twist that sets them apart from traditional sugar cookies. The process is straightforward, yet the result is impressive. If you’re curious about how to elevate your cookie game or want tips on the perfect icing, keep following along for some helpful insights.
What kind of recipe is it?
Brown Butter Iced Sugar Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic sugar cookie, featuring the nutty, rich flavor of brown butter that elevates the traditional taste.
These cookies are characterized by their tender, soft texture and a beautifully smooth icing that adds a touch of sweetness and visual appeal. Ideal for cookie lovers of all ages, this recipe is perfect for festive occasions, baking parties, or simply indulging in a sweet treat at home.
Cooking these cookies will impress family and friends, making them an instant favorite!
Preparation Time
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Difficulty of the Recipe | Easy to Moderate |
| Preparation Time | 15 minutes (plus cooling time) |
| Number of Servings | Approximately 24 cookies |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | ½ cup (1 stick) + 2 tablespoons |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup |
| Brown sugar | ½ cup |
| Large eggs | 1 large |
| Vanilla extract | 2 teaspoons |
| All-purpose flour | 2 ¾ cups |
| Baking soda | 1 teaspoon |
| Baking powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Powdered sugar | For icing, as needed |
| Milk | For icing, as needed |
Essential Kitchen Equipment
| Tool/Equipment | Purpose | Alternative Option |
|---|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls (Large and Medium) | Used to combine and mix ingredients. The large bowl is ideal for mixing wet ingredients, while the medium bowl is great for dry ingredients. | Any large bowl can be used in place of a mixing bowl. Consider using a sturdy pot or deep dish if you don’t have mixing bowls. |
| Measuring Cups (Dry and Liquid) | Essential for measuring both dry ingredients like flour and sugar, as well as liquid ingredients such as eggs and vanilla extract. | Use a standard cup measurement (like a coffee cup) and convert measurements accordingly. |
| Measuring Spoons | For precise measurement of small quantities like baking soda, baking powder, salt, and vanilla extract. | A regular teaspoon can be used, keeping in mind that it might not be as precise. |
| Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer | Makes creaming the butter and sugars easier and ensures a well-blended dough. A stand mixer is more powerful, while a hand mixer is more affordable. | Mixing by hand with a wooden spoon or whisk can be done, but require more effort. |
| Rubber Spatula | Used for scraping down the sides of mixing bowls, and for folding and combining the dough without overmixing. | A wooden spoon or any flat spatula can be a suitable alternative. |
| Wooden Spoon | Ideal for mixing ingredients, especially when creaming butter and sugar together. It allows for good control and blending. | A sturdy fork can be used as an alternative for mixing if needed. |
| Baking Sheets (2-3) | Necessary for placing the cookie dough to bake; multiple sheets allow for batch baking. | Any flat, oven-safe sheet or tray can work, as long as it can withstand high temperatures. |
| Parchment Paper or Silicone Mats | Used to line baking sheets to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. It also helps achieve a more even bake. | Lightly greasing the baking sheets can be a substitute if you don’t have parchment paper or silicone mats. |
| Cookie Scoop or Spoon | Helps to portion out the cookie dough evenly for consistent baking. A scoop provides uniform size, ensuring even baking. | A regular tablespoon can be used to scoop out the dough, but it may result in uneven cookie sizes. |
| Cooling Rack | Allows cookies to cool evenly and prevents them from becoming soggy. It creates circulation around the cookies as they cool down. | A plate or baking sheet can be used to cool cookies if a cooling rack is not available, but it may retain moisture. |
| Oven Thermometer | Ensures the oven is at the correct temperature for baking, which is crucial for achieving perfect cookies. | You can rely on the oven’s built-in temperature gauge; however, it is advisable to double-check if unsure of accuracy. |
Cooking Steps
6. Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: Add 2 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Then, add 5 ml of vanilla extract and continue mixing until fully combined and smooth, about 1 minute.
7. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together 450 g of all-purpose flour, 5 g of baking powder, 5 g of baking soda, and 5 g of fine salt.
8. Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, using a rubber spatula or the mixer on low speed to fold in until just combined.
Don’t overmix; the dough should be slightly sticky.
9. Scoop Dough: Using a cookie scoop or a regular tablespoon, portion the dough into 30-35 equal balls, placing them about 5 cm (2 inches) apart on the prepared baking sheets.
10. Bake Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
The centers will look slightly underbaked but will continue to set as they cool.
11. Cool Cookies: Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheets for 5 minutes.
Then transfer the cookies to a wire cooling rack to cool completely.
12. Storage: Once cookies are cool, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag or container for up to 3 months.
Variations
- Spiced Sugar Cookies: Add 5 g of ground cinnamon and 3 g of ground nutmeg (1 teaspoon each) to the dough for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Nutty Sugar Cookies: Incorporate 100 g of finely chopped nuts (3/4 cup) such as walnuts or pecans into the dough for additional texture and flavor.
- Caramel Swirl Sugar Cookies: Swirl 100 g of caramel sauce into the dough right before baking for a decadent caramel twist.
Tips on plating and presentation
When it comes to plating and presentation, elevating your Brown Butter Iced Sugar Cookies can truly impress guests.
Use garnish techniques like edible flowers or a sprinkle of sea salt to add an unexpected touch. Incorporating color contrast, such as pairing your cookies with a vibrant fruit compote or fresh herbs, will make your dessert visually appealing and tantalizing to taste.
What other dishes can I pair it with?
Although pairing is often overlooked, I believe that Brown Butter Iced Sugar Cookies can complement a variety of dishes beautifully.
They enhance dessert pairings like rich chocolate cakes or fruity tarts, creating delightful flavor profiles.
Consider serving them alongside creamy vanilla ice cream or a bright berry compote. The contrasts make for an exciting dining experience, elevating both the cookie and the accompanying dish.
What drinks can I pair it with?
What drinks can I enjoy alongside Brown Butter Iced Sugar Cookies?
I love pairing these delightful cookies with a tall glass of cold milk—almond or oat milk options really enhance the flavor.
For a more indulgent treat, I often go for a rich cup of coffee. The warm notes of coffee perfectly complement the cookies’ sweetness, making for a delightful experience!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Gluten-Free Flour in This Recipe?
Absolutely, I’ve used gluten-free alternatives in recipes before. Just keep in mind that the flour texture might differ, so you may need to adjust liquids or fats for the best results. Happy baking!
How Should I Store the Cookies After Baking?
After baking, I store the cookies in an airtight container for freshness. I find that using ideal containers like glass or plastic helps maintain their softness. Here are some tips for storage: keep them cool and dry!
Can I Freeze the Dough Before Baking?
Absolutely, I freeze the dough before baking! Just make sure it’s well-wrapped so it maintains its dough consistency. For freezing tips, I recommend flattening it into discs for easier thawing when you’re ready to bake.
What Can I Substitute for Brown Butter?
You can substitute brown butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free option or use ghee for a rich flavor. I’ve tried both, and they each bring a unique taste to my baked goods!
How Long Do These Cookies Stay Fresh?
These cookies stay fresh for about a week if stored in an airtight container. To extend their shelf life, I recommend keeping them cool and avoiding moisture. That’s my go-to freshness tip for delicious treats!