Browned Butter Cookies

Prep: 10 min Cook: 12 min Serves: 24 Cuisine: American

Browned Butter Cookies offer a rich, nutty flavor with a tender, buttery crumb, perfect for those who enjoy simple, flavorful treats with a touch of sophistication.

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Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 1/3 cup sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

Instructions

  1. Put butter into a heavy skillet and slowly heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Turn into a mixing bowl.
  2. Beat the browned butter with sugar, egg, and vanilla until light.
  3. Add flour and baking powder, stirring to make a stiff dough.
  4. Shape into little balls, using about 1 level tablespoonful of dough for each.
  5. Place on a cookie sheet.
  6. Press the center down with your thumb to make an indentation.
  7. Bake at 350°F for 10 to 12 minutes or until cookies are firm, but not overly browned.
  8. If they are overbrowned, cookies become very hard.

Tips & Substitutions

For best results, use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the cookies. If you prefer a nuttier flavor, brown the butter until it has a deep amber color, but be careful not to burn it. You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. For added texture, consider incorporating nuts or chocolate chips into the dough.

Serving Suggestions

These browned butter cookies pair beautifully with a glass of cold milk or a hot cup of coffee. They can be served as a delightful dessert or an afternoon snack. For a fun twist, consider topping them with a dollop of whipped cream or serving alongside Summer Fruit With Yogurt Honey Sauce for a refreshing contrast.

Storage & Reheating

Store the cooled browned butter cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. To reheat, place cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes to restore their softness.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Browned Butter Cookies contains roughly 85 calories, with 2g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.

85 kcal 4% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2g 4% DV
Total Fat 0.6g 1% DV
Carbs 16.7g 6% DV
Fiber 0.6g 2% DV
Sugar 0.3g 1% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 36.9mg 2% DV
Potassium 54.4mg 1% DV
Cholesterol 13.2mg 4% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 3.2mcg
Vitamin C 1.2mg 1% DV
Calcium 26.9mg 2% DV
Iron 0.8mg 5% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While margarine can be used, it may not provide the same rich flavor and texture as browned butter. If you prefer a dairy-free option, look for a high-quality vegan butter that can withstand browning.

What can I do if the dough is too sticky?

If the dough is too sticky to handle, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will help firm it up, making it easier to shape into balls. Additionally, lightly flour your hands when forming the cookies.

How can I make these cookies more flavorful?

Enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of sea salt to the dough or incorporating spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg. You can also mix in chocolate chips, toffee bits, or dried fruit for an extra burst of flavor.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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