Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

Name: Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (brown butter); 1 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Indulge in the rich, nutty flavor of brown butter paired with gooey chocolate chips in these irresistible cookies.

Created by

Brittany Shaw

Last updated on 2025-12-21T03:30:54.021Z

These Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful twist on a classic favorite. The nutty aroma of browned butter elevates the flavor profile, making them perfect for any occasion.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with nutty brown butter
Chewy texture with crispy edges
Perfect for sharing or indulging yourself

      

The Magic of Brown Butter

Brown butter, or beurre noisette, is a culinary treasure that elevates any dish it graces. The process of browning butter involves cooking it until the milk solids caramelize, infusing it with a rich, nutty flavor that is simply irresistible. This unique depth transforms your classic chocolate chip cookies into a sophisticated treat that will impress even the most discerning palates. The warmth and complexity of brown butter complement the sweetness of chocolate, creating a harmonious balance that keeps you reaching for just one more cookie.

In addition to its flavor, brown butter brings a beautiful golden hue to your cookies, making them visually appealing. The transformation is not merely about taste; it’s an experience that engages your senses from the moment the butter begins to bubble in the pan. The delightful aroma of nutty, toasted notes fills your kitchen, setting the stage for the deliciousness to come. With brown butter as a star ingredient, your cookies will stand out at any gathering.

The Perfect Texture

Achieving the perfect cookie texture is an art form, and this recipe nails it with a delightful combination of chewiness and crispness. The brown sugar in the dough contributes to the soft, chewy center, while the granulated sugar helps create those beautifully crisp edges. This contrast makes each bite a delightful experience, providing both a satisfying chew and a satisfying crunch.

By baking the cookies just until the edges turn golden brown, you ensure that they remain soft in the center while developing a slight crispness outside. This technique is essential for creating that coveted cookie texture that everyone loves. Allowing the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack further enhances this texture, ensuring they set perfectly without becoming too hard.

Sharing the Joy

These brown butter chocolate chip cookies are perfect for sharing. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, attending a potluck, or simply looking to brighten someone’s day, these cookies are sure to bring joy. Their delightful flavor and appealing texture make them a crowd-pleaser, and they are easy to package beautifully for gifting. A simple box or a decorative tin filled with these cookies is a heartfelt gesture that shows you care.

Moreover, baking these cookies can be a fun activity to do with family or friends. Gather your loved ones in the kitchen, and let everyone take part in the mixing, scooping, and baking process. Not only will you create delicious treats, but you will also create lasting memories together. The joy of sharing these cookies is just as important as the joy of eating them.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

1 cup unsalted butter (brown butter)
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Prepare the Brown Butter

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat until it starts to foam. Stir continuously until the butter turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.

Mix the Sugars and Eggs

In a large bowl, combine the brown butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then add the vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

Add Chocolate Chips

Fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.

Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Enjoy your freshly baked cookies with a glass of milk or your favorite beverage!

Tips for Success

To ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time, use high-quality ingredients. Fresh, high-quality chocolate chips and unsalted butter can make a significant difference in flavor. Additionally, be mindful of the dough temperature; if your kitchen is warm, consider chilling the dough for a short time before baking to help maintain cookie structure.

Measuring your ingredients accurately is also crucial. Use a kitchen scale if possible for precision, especially with flour. Too much flour can lead to dry cookies, while too little can make them overly spread out. Following the recipe closely will yield the best results.

Storage and Shelf Life

To keep these cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay delicious for up to a week, although they might not last that long! For longer storage, consider freezing the cookie dough. You can scoop out individual portions and freeze them, then bake fresh cookies whenever the mood strikes. Just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if baking from frozen.

If you have leftover baked cookies, they can also be frozen. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds for that fresh-baked taste.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize your brown butter chocolate chip cookies! Add nuts like walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch, or swap in dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor. You can also experiment with different types of baking chips, such as white chocolate or butterscotch, to create a unique twist on this classic recipe.

For a seasonal touch, consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough, or even a splash of espresso powder for a mocha flavor. The versatility of this cookie recipe allows you to get creative while maintaining that beloved chewy texture and delectable taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but you may want to reduce the added salt in the recipe.

→ How do I store leftover cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to three months. Just scoop and freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag once solid.

→ What type of chocolate is best to use?

Semi-sweet chocolate chips are traditional, but you can also mix in dark or milk chocolate for variety.