Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

If you have ever wondered how to elevate a beloved classic into something truly unforgettable, then this Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe is your golden ticket. The magic begins with browning the butter just right, which imparts a deep, nutty richness that transforms these cookies into a tender, caramel-kissed delight. Each bite balances the perfect contrast of chewy edges and soft centers, studded generously with both milk and semisweet chocolate chips. This recipe not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also creates a comforting experience that feels like a warm hug from the inside out.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe calls for simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together in perfect harmony. Each element plays its role: the browned butter adds depth, sugars provide sweetness and texture, and the combination of milk and semisweet chocolate chips delivers those irresistible melty pockets of goodness.

• 1 cup unsalted butter: Browning it carefully is key to unlocking a richer, nuttier flavor.
• ¾ cup brown sugar: Adds moisture and a hint of molasses warmth.
• ½ cup granulated sugar: Helps achieve a delightful crisp edge.
• 2 large eggs: Bind everything together while contributing to a soft crumb.
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract: Adds aromatic depth and enhances the chocolate.
• 2⅔ cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy base ensuring the perfect cookie structure.
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch: Keeps cookies tender and slightly cakey.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Provides just the right lift for perfect texture.
• ½ teaspoon baking powder: Gives extra lightness.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Balances sweetness and accentuates flavors.
• 1 cup milk chocolate chips: Melts smoothly, adding creamy sweetness.
• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips: Offers a richer, more intense chocolate kick.

How to Make Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Butter

Start by melting the unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Watch closely as it simmers, then lower the heat to medium-low. Whisk continuously while a foamy layer forms on top. Keep whisking until the butter turns a beautiful golden-brown color with a fragrant, nutty aroma—this step is the heart and soul of the entire recipe.

Step 2: Cool the Browned Butter

Pour the browned butter into a large heatproof bowl and let it cool completely for about 30 minutes. Cooling prevents the heat from cooking the eggs when you mix the batter and ensures the dough holds together perfectly.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Whisk together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract into the cooled browned butter. The sugars begin dissolving here, setting up that perfect balance between chewy and crispy once baked.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, and kosher salt. These dry ingredients give your cookies structure, tenderness, and just the right rise.

Step 5: Bring Wet and Dry Together

Slowly stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Overmixing can toughen cookies, so a gentle fold keeps them tender and soft.

Step 6: Add the Chocolate Chips and Chill

Fold in both the milk and semisweet chocolate chips, making sure every bite will have some of that luscious chocolate goodness. Cover the dough tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour. This rest allows flavors to meld and prevents cookies from spreading too much while baking.

Step 7: Prepare to Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple step prevents sticking and helps keep the cookie bottoms from burning.

Step 8: Shape the Cookie Dough

Using your hands or a cookie scoop, form six 1-inch balls spaced evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Try to keep them uniform so each cookie bakes evenly.

Step 9: Add Final Touches and Bake

Press down lightly on each dough ball and gently press a few extra chocolate chips onto the tops for that gorgeous melty finish. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges dry and shimmer with a light golden hue. This ensures the perfect chewy center with crispy, buttery edges.

Step 10: Cool and Repeat

Allow the cookies to cool completely on the pan before transferring them to a wire rack or plate. Repeat the process with the remaining dough, filling your kitchen with that wonderful baked cookie scent.

How to Serve Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

While these cookies shine as they are, a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a drizzle of melted chocolate can add an exciting twist. The salt amplifies the sweetness and intensifies the buttery flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

Serve these cookies alongside a tall glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee or tea. The comforting beverages complement the rich chocolate and browned butter perfectly, making the experience divine.

Creative Ways to Present

For a playful touch, sandwich a dollop of vanilla bean ice cream between two cookies for an irresistible dessert. Alternatively, break the cookies into chunks and sprinkle over vanilla yogurt or ice cream bowls for added texture and flavor bursts.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, and they’ll stay fresh and chewy for up to 5 days. If you prefer crisper edges, you can lightly warm them before serving.

Freezing

This Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe dough freezes exceptionally well. Simply shape the dough balls and freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container. When ready to bake, add a minute or two to the baking time, baking straight from frozen.

Reheating

Warm cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F for a few minutes or microwave gently in short bursts. This revives the soft, melty chocolate and brings back that fresh-baked feeling instantly.

FAQs

Can I substitute regular butter for unsalted butter?

For the best control over salt levels and to ensure the pure nutty flavor of browned butter shines through, unsalted butter is recommended. Using salted butter can make your cookies a bit saltier than intended.

Why do I need to chill the cookie dough?

Chilling helps solidify the butter fats, which means the cookies spread less during baking. It also lets the flavors meld, resulting in a more complex and delicious cookie.

Can I use just one type of chocolate chips?

Absolutely! While the combination of milk and semisweet chips provides a balanced sweetness and depth, you can use just one type depending on your preference or what you have on hand.

What’s the role of cornstarch in this recipe?

Cornstarch acts as a tenderizer in cookie dough, giving the cookies a soft, almost cakey texture that’s delightful and different from a typical chocolate chip cookie.

How do I know when the cookies are done?

Look for edges that are dry and have turned a light golden color while the centers may still look slightly soft. They will firm up as they cool, ensuring a tender bite.

Final Thoughts

This Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe truly elevates the ordinary into something spectacular. Its rich, buttery aroma and chocolatey goodness make every moment spent baking well worth it. I can’t wait for you to create these comforting cookies and share them with friends and family. Trust me—you’ll find it hard to stop at just one!

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