Browned Butter Sea Salt Chocolate Chip Cookies
There’s something undeniably magical about cookies, especially when they are warm, gooey, and bursting with chocolate. Enter the Browned Butter Sea Salt Chocolate Chip Cookies recipe, which elevates the classic chocolate chip cookie to new heights with the nutty flavor of browned butter and a sprinkle of sea salt. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat at home, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your household. The combination of rich, buttery goodness and luscious chocolate creates a comforting experience that’s hard to resist.
Why You’ll Keep Making It
These Browned Butter Sea Salt Chocolate Chip Cookies are not just any ordinary cookies. Here’s why they will find a permanent place in your baking repertoire:
- Rich Flavor: Browning the butter adds a deep, nutty flavor that takes these cookies to another level.
- Perfect Texture: The combination of cornstarch and all-purpose flour gives the cookies a soft center with slightly crispy edges.
- Elevated Taste: A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors beautifully.
- Versatile Enjoyment: These cookies can be enjoyed fresh out of the oven or stored for later, making them perfect for any occasion.
Gather These Ingredients
Before you start baking, make sure you have the following ingredients on hand:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, browned: This butter is the star of the show, providing a rich, nutty flavor.
- 1 large egg: A binder that helps the cookies hold their shape.
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed: This adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: For sweetness and to create that crisp texture.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The main structure of the cookies.
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch: Helps achieve that soft, chewy texture.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: For leavening, ensuring the cookies rise perfectly.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste: Balances the sweetness.
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: The classic chocolate addition.
- Flaky sea salt, to taste: For that delightful finishing touch.
Recommended Tools
Having the right tools can make your baking experience smoother. Here are some essentials:
- Mixer: A stand or hand mixer will make creaming the butter easier.
- Mixing bowls: For combining ingredients.
- Baking sheet: A sturdy sheet for evenly baked cookies.
- Parchment paper: Helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Cookie scoop: For evenly portioning the dough.
How to Prepare Browned Butter Sea Salt Chocolate Chip Cookies
Now that you have your ingredients and tools ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making these delicious cookies.
Step 1: Brown the Butter
Start by placing the unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir it continuously as it melts, watching for it to turn golden brown and develop a nutty aroma. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the browned butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Use your mixer to cream them together until light and fluffy. Add in the egg and mix until well combined.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and kosher salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 4: Fold in Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips with a spatula until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 5: Chill the Dough
For the best texture, cover the dough and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
Step 6: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
Step 7: Scoop and Bake
Using a cookie scoop, portion out the dough and place it on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie as they will spread. Top each cookie with a few extra chocolate chips and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.
Step 8: Bake
Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. The centers may look slightly undercooked, but they will continue to firm up as they cool.
Step 9: Cool and Enjoy
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your Browned Butter Sea Salt Chocolate Chip Cookies warm, or store them for later!
Substitutions by Category
If you need to make some adjustments, here are some substitutions you can consider:
- Butter: You can use vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
- Brown Sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a healthier alternative.
- Flour: Almond flour or gluten-free flour blends can be used for a gluten-free option.
- Chocolate Chips: Dark chocolate chips or chunks can provide a richer flavor.
Little Things that Matter
When making Browned Butter Sea Salt Chocolate Chip Cookies, a few small details can make a big difference:
- Make sure to stir the butter constantly while browning to avoid burning.
- Chilling the dough is crucial for preventing excessive spreading.
- Using high-quality chocolate chips can significantly enhance the flavor of your cookies.
- Don’t skip the flaky sea salt on top; it adds a delightful contrast to the sweetness.
Best Ways to Store
To keep your cookies fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:
- Store 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-safe bag for up to three months.
- To enjoy a warm cookie straight from the freezer, simply bake from frozen for a few extra minutes.
Helpful Q&A
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but be sure to reduce the added salt in the recipe to avoid overly salty cookies.
What if I don’t have cornstarch?
If you don’t have cornstarch, you can substitute it with an equal amount of all-purpose flour, though it may slightly alter the texture.
Can I use different types of chocolate?
Absolutely! You can mix and match your favorite chocolate varieties, like dark or white chocolate, or even nuts for added texture.
How do I make these cookies softer?
For softer cookies, you can slightly underbake them or add a touch more brown sugar to increase moisture.
If you love baking, consider trying these delightful recipes:
Ready, Set, Cook
Now that you have the complete guide to making the most delicious Browned Butter Sea Salt Chocolate Chip Cookies, it’s time to get started! Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the delicious aroma fill your kitchen as you bake. Whether you’re sharing these cookies with family and friends or keeping them all to yourself, you’re in for a treat that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Happy baking!
Browned Butter Sea Salt Chocolate Chip Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by placing the unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir it continuously as it melts, watching for it to turn golden brown and develop a nutty aroma. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the browned butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Use your mixer to cream them together until light and fluffy. Add in the egg and mix until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and kosher salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips with a spatula until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- For the best texture, cover the dough and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Using a cookie scoop, portion out the dough and place it on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie as they will spread. Top each cookie with a few extra chocolate chips and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.
- Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. The centers may look slightly undercooked, but they will continue to firm up as they cool.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your Browned Butter Sea Salt Chocolate Chip Cookies warm, or store them for later!
Notes
- Make sure to stir the butter constantly while browning to avoid burning.
- Chilling the dough is crucial for preventing excessive spreading.
- Using high-quality chocolate chips can significantly enhance the flavor of your cookies.
- Don’t skip the flaky sea salt on top; it adds a delightful contrast to the sweetness.
