Introduction
Welcome to a delightful treat that’s sure to impress your friends and family: Irresistible Cinnamon Brown Butter Cookies! These cookies boast a rich, nutty flavor thanks to the brown butter, combined with the warm, comforting aroma of cinnamon. Each bite promises a burst of sweetness and a hint of crunch from optional walnuts or chocolate chips. Make a batch of these cookies for your next gathering, or simply to indulge in a cozy afternoon at home.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Keep an eye on it as it bubbles and sizzles, stirring occasionally. Continue cooking until the butter turns a gorgeous golden brown and develops a nutty aroma, about 5-7 minutes. Once it reaches that lovely color, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar and granulated sugar. Pour the warm brown butter into the bowl with the sugars and mix them together until well combined.
- Next, add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Beat well until smooth and creamy.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt, creating a fragrant blend of dry ingredients.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing gently until just combined. If you’re adding walnuts or chocolate chips for that extra touch, fold them in now.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave about 2 inches of space between each scoop.
- Pop them into the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and the cookies look irresistibly soft in the center.
- Once done, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes or Tips
For a twist on flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the cookies just before baking. This contrast of sweet and salty is utterly delicious! Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh and chewy for several days.
Cooking Techniques
The secret to these cookies lies in the brown butter. When cooking the butter, be attentive; the transition from melted to browned happens quickly. This step adds depth to the flavor, setting these cookies apart. Remember to let the brown butter cool slightly before mixing with the sugars to avoid scrambling the egg!
FAQ
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cookie dough balls and bake them directly from the freezer—just add an extra minute or two to the baking time.
Can I substitute the nuts or chocolate chips?
Certainly! Feel free to omit them or replace them with your favorite mix-ins such as dried fruit or different types of chocolate.
Conclusion
Dive into these Cinnamon Brown Butter Cookies for a warm, comforting treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or gifted to a friend, these cookies will surely become a cherished recipe in your collection. Happy baking!