Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

If you’re a fan of classic chocolate chip cookies, then this Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies recipe will elevate your cookie game. The secret ingredient? Browned butter. By browning the butter, I bring out a rich, nutty, caramel-like flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of chocolate chips. These cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with flavor. They’re perfect for any occasion and sure to be a hit in your home.

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter

1 cup packed brown sugar

½ cup granulated sugar

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

2 large eggs

2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon salt

2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, continue cooking for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the butter turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and browned butter. Beat until well combined. Add the eggs, one at a time, and the vanilla extract, and continue mixing until smooth.

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

Fold in the chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and place them onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden, but the centers are still slightly soft.

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Servings: 24 cookies

Calories: 210 kcal per cookie

Storage/Reheating

To store these cookies, I recommend placing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for about 4-5 days. If you want to enjoy them warm again, simply pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or heat them in the oven for a few minutes at 300°F (150°C) until they’re soft and gooey again.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

I personally prefer unsalted butter for more control over the salt content in the recipe, but if you only have salted butter on hand, you can use it. Just be sure to reduce or omit the additional salt in the recipe.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies should be golden at the edges, with slightly soft centers. They will continue to cook a bit on the baking sheet after you remove them from the oven, so don't worry if they seem a little underdone in the center. This ensures they stay chewy.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes! I like to scoop the dough into tablespoon-sized balls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze them. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to a zip-top bag or container. You can bake them straight from the freezer, just add a minute or two to the baking time.

Can I use milk chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet?

Absolutely! If you’re a fan of milk chocolate, go ahead and substitute it for semi-sweet chocolate chips. The flavor will be sweeter, but still delicious.

Why is chilling the dough important?

Chilling the dough helps solidify the fat in the cookies, which results in a chewier texture and prevents them from spreading too much while baking. Plus, it allows the flavors to develop even further.

Conclusion

Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic recipe. The browned butter adds a deep, caramelized flavor that perfectly complements the rich chocolate chips. These cookies are quick to make, soft and chewy, and will definitely become a go-to in my baking routine. Enjoy them fresh from the oven or store them for a sweet treat later!