Name: Chewy Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies You'll Crave Forever
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Salted Butter (Melted and browned); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour; ¾ teaspoon Baking Soda (Adjust to ½ teaspoon for thicker cookies); ¼ teaspoon Salt; ⅔ cup Light Brown Sugar (Packed); ⅓ cup Granulated Sugar; 1 large Egg (At room temperature); 1 tablespoon Milk (Water can be an alternative); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Use high-quality pure extract); 3 oz Dark Chocolate (Coarsely chopped); ½ cup Semisweet Chocolate Chips; Flaky Sea Salt (To sprinkle on top)

As I watched the butter transform in the pan, turning from pale yellow to a deep amber hue, I couldn’t help but smile, knowing I was on the cusp of creating something magical: Chewy Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies. This simple change in the butter adds a nutty depth that elevates the classic chocolate chip cookie to new heights. Not only are these cookies absolutely irresistible with their chewy centers and crispy edges, but they also come together in a flash—perfect for those busy afternoons when you crave a homemade treat without the fuss. Plus, they freeze beautifully, so you can always have a stash ready for unexpected guests or late-night cravings. Ready to discover the warm, buttery bliss of baking? Let’s dive in!

Why do you need this recipe?

Irresistible Flavor: The brown butter infuses a nutty richness that transforms ordinary chocolate chip cookies into extraordinary treats.

Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies come together in no time, making them a perfect baking choice for busy days.

Perfect Texture: Enjoy the delightful contrast of chewy centers and crispy edges that make each bite a true indulgence.

Versatile Options: Feel free to mix in your favorite chocolate varieties or even nuts for a unique twist that caters to your cravings.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the dough ahead of time and freeze it; you’ll have homemade cookies ready for any occasion or midnight snack.

Don’t forget to elevate your baking skills with helpful baking tips that ensure flawless cookie results every time!

Chewy Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

Salted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; for a milder taste, switch to unsalted butter and increase salt to ½ teaspoon.
All-Purpose Flour – The base structure of the cookies; measuring accurately helps prevent spreading.
Baking Soda (¾ teaspoon) – Contributes to chewiness through browning; adjust to ½ teaspoon for thicker cookies.
Salt (¼ teaspoon) – Enhances the flavor for a perfectly balanced taste.
Light Brown Sugar (⅔ cup, packed) – Adds moisture and a hint of caramel; dark brown sugar works well for a deeper flavor.
Granulated Sugar (⅓ cup) – Sweetens the cookies and assists in browning.
Large Egg (1, at room temperature) – Binds ingredients together; use a room-temperature egg for best results.
Milk (1 tablespoon) – Keeps the dough moist after browning the butter; water can be an alternative.
Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon) – Infuses classic flavor; opt for high-quality pure extract for outstanding taste.
Dark Chocolate (3 oz, coarsely chopped) – Offers a rich chocolate flavor; blocks melt better than chips for a gooey texture.
Semisweet Chocolate Chips (½ cup) – Adds a sweet chocolate touch; feel free to swap with your favorite chocolate type.

For Optional Topping

Flaky Sea Salt – Sprinkling on top enhances flavor and provides a beautiful finish.

Let’s get ready to enjoy these chewy brown butter chocolate chip cookies that will make your taste buds sing!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chewy Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

Step 1: Brown the Butter
In a medium saucepan, melt 1 cup of salted butter over medium heat. Stir continuously for about 5–7 minutes until the butter turns a deep amber color and develops a nutty aroma, with brown specks forming at the bottom. Once browned, remove it from the heat and let it cool to room temperature, as this is key for delicious Chewy Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients
While the butter cools, set up a mixing bowl and whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, ¾ teaspoon of baking soda, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. This step ensures your dry ingredients are well combined and consistent throughout the dough, helping create that perfect chewy texture in your cookies, so it’s essential to measure flour accurately.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooled brown butter with ⅔ cup of packed light brown sugar and ⅓ cup of granulated sugar. Use a hand mixer or whisk to blend until fully incorporated and creamy, about 2–3 minutes. Add in 1 room-temperature large egg, 1 tablespoon of milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing just until smooth, and bringing all those flavors together in your Chewy Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your cookies tender. Next, fold in 3 oz of coarsely chopped dark chocolate and ½ cup of semisweet chocolate chips, ensuring every bite is packed with chocolatey goodness and a delightful texture.

Step 5: Chill Dough
Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 4 hours for enhanced flavor and texture. Chilling is critical for the Chewy Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies, as it helps prevent excessive spreading during baking, resulting in those perfectly chewy, golden-brown edges.

Step 6: Preheat Oven
When your dough is chilled, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This step ensures an even baking surface and a non-stick experience, which is vital for achieving the desired chewy texture in your cookies.

Step 7: Scoop Dough
Using a 1 ½-ounce cookie scoop, portion out the chilled dough and roll it into balls. Place the raw dough on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Keep them round and don’t flatten the balls, as this shape yields the best results when baking the Chewy Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies.

Step 8: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers still look soft. This timing is crucial for achieving the perfect chewy center. Once done, remove the trays from the oven and let the cookies set on the sheets for 2 minutes before transferring them to wire racks.

Step 9: Cool and Serve
Allow the cookies to cool completely on the wire racks. For an extra touch, sprinkle flaky sea salt on top while still warm to enhance flavor. After they cool, these Chewy Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies are ready to be savored, whether with a glass of milk or on their own as a delightful treat.

Expert Tips for Chewy Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

Butter Temperature Matters: Ensure your browned butter has cooled to room temperature before mixing with other ingredients; this prevents a greasy batter.
Chill for Perfection: Don’t skip chilling the dough! Allowing it to rest enhances flavor and texture, resulting in those irresistibly chewy brown butter chocolate chip cookies.
Measure Flour Correctly: Use a kitchen scale or spoon and level technique to avoid overpacking, which can lead to dry cookies that spread too much.
Use Quality Chocolate: Opt for high-quality dark chocolate and semisweet chips for a richer flavor; the quality makes all the difference in your cookies.
Watch Baking Time: Keep a close eye while baking; pulling the cookies just as they turn golden guarantees soft, chewy centers with crisp edges.
Rotate Baking Sheets: If using multiple trays, rotate them halfway through baking for even cooking, especially in conventional ovens.

Chewy Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Variations

Feel free to make these cookies your own with exciting twists and flavors that will spark your creativity in the kitchen!

Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute up to 50% of all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and texture.
Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup of walnuts or pecans to the dough for a delightful crunch that complements the dark chocolate.
Flavored Extracts: Swap out vanilla extract for almond or hazelnut extract for an unexpected layer of flavor.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon into the dry ingredients for a warm, subtle heat that elevates the cookies.
Different Chocolates: Replace dark chocolate with milk chocolate, white chocolate, or even butterscotch for a variety of sweet experiences.
Oatmeal Boost: Fold in 1 cup of rolled oats for added texture and a heartier feel; these cookies will be uniquely satisfying.
Salted Caramel: Add pieces of soft caramel candy into the dough for a gooey, decadent surprise with each bite, perfect for caramel lovers.
Chili Chocolate: Use chocolate infused with chili for an adventurous flavor profile that combines sweetness with a touch of heat.

Remember, the world of baking is all about experimenting, so don’t hesitate to explore these variations or create your own! For handy baking strategies, check out our baking tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfect every time. Happy baking!

Make Ahead Options

These Chewy Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeks! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 2 days in advance by chilling it in the refrigerator, tightly covered, ensuring the flavors develop beautifully. If you need even more flexibility, the dough can be frozen for up to 3 months; just shape it into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a zip-top bag. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat your oven and bake the frozen dough for an additional 1-2 minutes to achieve those delicious, chewy cookies with crispy edges, just as delightful as if made fresh!

How to Store and Freeze Chewy Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

Airtight Container: Store your cookies at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their chewy texture and richness.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cooled cookies tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag, where they can last up to 3 months.

Dough Storage: You can also freeze the cookie dough. Shape it into balls, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.

Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies later, simply reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes, allowing the chocolate to become melty again.

What to Serve with Chewy Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

Pairing these indulgent treats with complementary sides can elevate your dessert experience to new heights.

Creamy Milk Shake: A thick chocolate or vanilla milkshake creates a delightful contrast to the chewy cookie texture, enhancing each sweet bite.
Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries add a refreshing burst of tartness that perfectly balances the rich, buttery sweetness of the cookies.
Scoop of Ice Cream: Serve warm cookies alongside a generous scoop of vanilla or salted caramel ice cream for an irresistible melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Hot Coffee: A steaming cup of coffee, with its rich aromas and bitter notes, cuts through the sweetness and enhances the cookie’s nutty flavor.
Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Drizzling some homemade or store-bought caramel over the cookies adds an extra layer of sweetness that will have everyone reaching for more.
Chocolate Fondue: Create a fun dessert spread by offering chocolate fondue, where guests can dip cookie pieces, adding delightful layers of chocolate flavor.
Nutty Granola: For a crunchy contrast, serve with a bowl of nutty granola; its texture harmonizes beautifully with the soft, chewy cookies.

Chewy Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of butter should I use for Chewy Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies?
Absolutely! Using salted butter not only adds richness but also enhances the overall flavor of the cookies. If you prefer a milder taste, you can switch to unsalted butter and increase the salt to ½ teaspoon. This adjustment keeps the balance of flavors while still delivering delicious results.

How do I store Chewy Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies?
To maintain their delightful chewiness, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you think you won’t finish them within that time, you can wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. This way, they can last up to 3 months in the freezer!

Can I freeze the cookie dough, and how?
Absolutely, freezing the dough is a fantastic way to ensure you have cookie-making convenience at your fingertips! Shape the cookie dough into balls and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place the wrapped balls in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough onto a baking sheet and add an extra minute or two to the baking time.

What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies spread excessively, don’t worry! This can often be addressed by making sure your butter is cooled before mixing and ensuring you’re measuring your flour correctly—spooning and leveling can prevent overpacking. Another helpful tip is to chill the dough for longer, as a cooler dough helps maintain their shape during baking!

Are these cookies suitable for dietary restrictions?
Be mindful of your ingredients! For those with allergies, ensure to choose chocolate types that are nut-free and gluten-free if needed. If you’re making adjustments for pets, remember that chocolate is toxic for dogs, so keep these treats just for human enjoyment. Always double-check labels if you’re accommodating specific dietary concerns.