Brown Butter Sea Salt Chocolate Chip Cookies
Highlighted under: Deluxe Baking Inspirations
Indulge in the rich and nutty flavors of these Brown Butter Sea Salt Chocolate Chip Cookies, perfectly balanced with a sprinkle of sea salt for that ultimate treat.
These Brown Butter Sea Salt Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful twist on a classic favorite. The brown butter adds a deep, nutty flavor that elevates the simple chocolate chip cookie to something extraordinary. Topped with a hint of sea salt, each bite is a perfect balance of sweet and savory.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with nutty brown butter
- A hint of sea salt enhances the sweetness
- Perfect for sharing or enjoying with a glass of milk
The Magic of Brown Butter
Brown butter is a culinary secret that elevates baked goods to new heights. The process of browning butter involves cooking it until the milk solids caramelize, resulting in a rich, nutty flavor that enhances any recipe. In these cookies, the brown butter adds complexity, making each bite a delightful experience. It's this simple yet transformative step that sets these chocolate chip cookies apart from the traditional versions.
When you brown butter, you're not just melting it; you're coaxing out deep flavors that create a luxurious base for your cookie dough. The aroma alone is captivating, filling your kitchen with warm, inviting notes that promise a treat unlike any other. This technique may take a little extra time, but the payoff is well worth it.
The Perfect Balance of Sweet and Salty
One of the standout features of these Brown Butter Sea Salt Chocolate Chip Cookies is the perfect balance between sweet and salty. The addition of flaky sea salt on top of the cookies enhances the sweetness of the chocolate chips while adding a delightful crunch. This flavor contrast is what makes each cookie not just satisfying but truly addictive.
Using high-quality flaky sea salt is essential for achieving that satisfying finish. It dissolves beautifully on the warm cookies, creating an irresistible flavor burst in every bite. This touch of saltiness elevates the overall taste experience, making you want to reach for just one more cookie, and then another.
Versatile Treats for Any Occasion
These Brown Butter Sea Salt Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it's a cozy family gathering or a festive holiday party. Their rich flavor and appealing texture make them a hit with both kids and adults alike. You can easily make a double batch to share with friends, coworkers, or neighbors, spreading the joy of homemade cookies.
Additionally, these cookies can be customized to suit your taste. Consider adding nuts for an extra crunch or substituting different types of chocolate chips. You can even mix in dried fruits or a swirl of caramel for a unique twist. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe a staple in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients
For the Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted 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 semisweet chocolate chips
- Flaky sea salt for topping
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
Instructions
Brown the Butter
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the butter turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the brown butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Chill the Dough
Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help the cookies hold their shape while baking.
Bake the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Enjoy your freshly baked cookies warm or store them in an airtight container.
Storing Your Cookies
To keep your Brown Butter Sea Salt Chocolate Chip Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to a week, although they are best enjoyed within the first few days. If you want to maintain that freshly baked taste, consider freezing the cookies instead.
To freeze, allow the cookies to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven for a few minutes to bring back their delightful texture.
Pairing Suggestions
These Brown Butter Sea Salt Chocolate Chip Cookies pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages. A classic choice is a glass of cold milk, which complements the rich chocolate flavor perfectly. For coffee lovers, a hot cup of coffee or espresso enhances the nutty notes of the brown butter, creating a delightful afternoon treat.
If you’re looking for something a little different, try pairing the cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The warm, gooey cookies combined with the cold ice cream create a delicious contrast that is hard to resist. This combination is sure to impress at any gathering.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough for up to 3 months. Just scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag.
→ What can I substitute for brown sugar?
You can use an equal amount of granulated sugar mixed with a tablespoon of molasses for a similar flavor.
→ How do I know when the cookies are done?
The cookies should be golden around the edges but still soft in the center. They will continue to cook on the baking sheet after being removed from the oven.
→ Can I use salted butter instead?
Yes, but you may want to reduce the added salt in the recipe to balance the flavors.
Brown Butter Sea Salt Chocolate Chip Cookies
Indulge in the rich and nutty flavors of these Brown Butter Sea Salt Chocolate Chip Cookies, perfectly balanced with a sprinkle of sea salt for that ultimate treat.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Deluxe Baking Inspirations
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 24 cookies
What You'll Need
For the Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted 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 semisweet chocolate chips
- Flaky sea salt for topping
How-To Steps
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the butter turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the brown butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. 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.
Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help the cookies hold their shape while baking.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Sprinkle a little flaky sea salt on top of each cookie. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 20g
- Protein: 2g