Brown Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

why make this recipe

Brown Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies are not just your average cookies. They offer a warm and comforting taste, combining the classic flavors of cinnamon with the rich, nutty essence of brown butter. If you’ve ever enjoyed the delightful chewiness of a snickerdoodle, you’re in for a treat with this recipe. The process of browning the butter adds an extra layer of depth to the flavor of these cookies, making them unforgettable.

These cookies hold a special place in many people’s hearts, as they remind us of home, family gatherings, and cozy afternoons with a glass of milk. The crispy edges and soft centers provide the perfect texture contrast, giving each bite a delightful experience. Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen while they bake is simply heavenly. Who wouldn’t want to share these cookies with friends and family? By making Brown Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies, you’re not only baking but also creating memories.

how to make Brown Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

Making Brown Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies is a rewarding experience that is both fun and straightforward. Follow the steps below to create these delicious treats that are sure to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup sugar (for rolling)

Directions:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your cookies bake evenly and turn out perfectly.

2. Brown the Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Keep an eye on it as it melts. It should slowly start to foam and eventually turn light brown, giving off a nutty aroma. Once it reaches this stage, remove it from heat and let it cool slightly.

3. Mix the Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, combine the browned butter with both granulated sugar and brown sugar. Mix them together until the mixture is well incorporated and smooth. This step is important as it helps create the sweet, flavorful base of your cookies.

4. Add the Eggs and Vanilla: Crack the eggs into the bowl one at a time. Mix well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract, which adds a lovely aroma and flavor to your cookie dough.

5. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, salt, and ground cinnamon. These ingredients work together to give the cookies their structure and flavor.

6. Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture. Stir until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix; it’s okay if there are a few lumps.

7. Roll the Dough: Prepare a small bowl with a mix of 1/4 cup sugar and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Take spoonfuls of the cookie dough and roll them into small balls. Then, coat each ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. This gives the cookies a delightful exterior and enhances their flavor.

8. Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the rolled dough balls on the sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This spacing allows the cookies to spread without sticking together while baking.

9. Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Watch closely; the edges should be lightly golden, while the centers might look slightly underbaked. This ensures a soft and chewy texture.

10. Cool the Cookies: Once done, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Afterward, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

how to serve Brown Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

Brown Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies can be served in various delightful ways. For a classic approach, enjoy them warm with a glass of cold milk. The combination is a match made in heaven—dunking a still-warm cookie into cool milk enhances the cookie’s sweetness and complements its flavors excellently.

You might also consider serving them at gatherings. Place a platter of cookies on the table during parties, holidays, or family get-togethers. Their inviting aroma and beautiful appearance will surely attract everyone, turning them into a crowd favorite.

If you want to elevate the experience further, serve the cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The warm cookie contrasts wonderfully with the cold ice cream, creating a delicious dessert treat that’s perfect for warm weather or any occasion.

how to store Brown Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

Properly storing your Brown Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies helps keep them fresh and tasty for longer. Here are some simple steps for storage:

1. Room Temperature: Once the cookies have cooled completely, place them in an airtight container. You can store them at room temperature for up to a week. Make sure the container is tightly sealed to prevent air from entering and making them hard.

2. Refrigeration: If you want to keep your cookies for a bit longer, you can refrigerate them. Place the cookies in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to two weeks.

3. Freezing: For even longer storage, you can freeze the cookies. Place cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe airtight container or resealable plastic bag. They can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, just let them thaw at room temperature or warm them up in the microwave for a few seconds.

tips to make Brown Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

1. Don’t Skip Browning the Butter: The browning process enhances the flavor significantly. Be patient and watch your butter closely to get the perfect nutty aroma without burning it.

2. Use Quality Ingredients: The flavor of your cookies significantly depends on the quality of your ingredients. Use good quality butter, sugars, and fresh eggs for the best results.

3. Chill the Dough (Optional): If you have time, chilling the cookie dough for 30 minutes in the fridge can improve the flavors and texture. It helps to prevent spreading during baking, making your cookies thicker and chewier.

4. Experiment with Spices: While cinnamon is the classic choice for snickerdoodles, you can experiment with other spices like nutmeg or ginger for a different flavor profile.

5. Watch the Baking Time: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on the cookies as they bake. Slightly underbaking them ensures that they stay soft and chewy.

variation

You can easily adapt Brown Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies by adding various mix-ins or flavors. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:

• Chocolate Chips: Stir in some chocolate chips or chunks for a decadent twist on the classic snickerdoodle.
• Nuts: Include chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor.
• Frosting: For an extra indulgent treat, drizzle homemade cream cheese frosting over the cooled cookies for a delicious dessert.
• Pumpkin Spice: For a seasonal variation, incorporate pumpkin spice instead of cinnamon for a fall-inspired cookie.

FAQs

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes, you can use salted butter, but it may alter the flavor slightly. If you do, consider reducing the added salt in the recipe to balance the flavors.

2. What can I use instead of cream of tartar?

If you don’t have cream of tartar on hand, you can substitute it with lemon juice or white vinegar. Use 1 teaspoon of either to replace the 1/2 teaspoon of cream of tartar needed.

3. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure that the blend includes a binding agent like xanthan gum for the best texture.

4. How can I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?

Make sure your butter is cool before combining it with the sugars. Additionally, chilling the cookie dough for about 30 minutes will help prevent excessive spreading while baking.

5. Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! If you want to make a larger batch, simply double all the ingredients. Just be sure you have enough mixing space and baking sheets to accommodate the extra cookies!

These delicious Brown Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies can become a favorite in your household, capturing hearts and taste buds alike. With a bit of effort, you can create memorable treats that offer warmth, flavor, and nostalgia in every bite. Enjoy making and sharing these cookies with friends and family!

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