Brown Sugar Cookies

Indulge in these chewy brown sugar cookies, featuring a soft texture and rich molasses flavor. This easy recipe is perfect for any occasion, from parties to cozy afternoons.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The use of brown sugar imparts a deep, molasses-like sweetness that elevates the cookie’s taste.
• Perfect Texture: Achieve a soft and chewy consistency with slightly crisp edges, making each bite delightful.
• Simple Ingredients: Requires only common pantry staples, making it convenient to whip up a batch anytime.

Ingredients

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 1 cup packed light or dark brown sugar
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the softened unsalted butter, packed brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the large egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
6. Form Dough Balls: Using a tablespoon or a cookie scoop, portion out the dough and roll into balls. Place them onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden, and the centers appear slightly undercooked.
8. Cool: Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: Approximately 18 cookies
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Spiced Brown Sugar Cookies: Add ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced flavor.
• Brown Butter Enhancement: For a deeper, nutty flavor, brown the butter before creaming it with the sugars.
• Add Mix-Ins: Incorporate chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit into the dough for added texture and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the dough balls on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time.

FAQs

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, if using salted butter, reduce the added salt in the recipe to ¼ teaspoon to balance the flavors.

2. What’s the difference between light and dark brown sugar?

Dark brown sugar contains more molasses than light brown sugar, resulting in a richer flavor and darker color. You can use either in this recipe based on your preference.

3. Why are my cookies spreading too much?

If your cookies spread too much, it could be due to overly soft butter or warm dough. Chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking can help prevent excessive spreading.

4. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 48 hours before baking. This can enhance the flavor and texture of the cookies.

5. How do I achieve a chewier texture?

Using more brown sugar than granulated sugar and slightly underbaking the cookies will result in a chewier texture.

6. Can I substitute the egg?

For an egg substitute, you can use ¼ cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) per egg. Note that this may slightly alter the texture.

7. Why are my cookies hard after baking?

Overbaking can cause cookies to become hard. Ensure you bake them until the edges are set, and the centers are still slightly soft. They will continue to firm up as they cool.

8. Can I add frosting to these cookies?

While these cookies are delicious on their own, you can add a simple glaze or frosting if desired. A maple or vanilla glaze would complement the brown sugar flavor well.

9. How can I make the cookies thicker?

To achieve thicker cookies, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking and ensure your baking soda is fresh.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe can be doubled to make a larger batch. Ensure you have enough baking sheets and oven space to accommodate the increased quantity.

Conclusion

These chewy brown sugar cookies are a delightful treat that combines simplicity with rich flavor.

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