Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
These rich, nutty cookies are made with browned butter for an extra depth of flavor, loaded with melty chocolate chips, and topped with flaky sea salt. Crispy edges, chewy centers—every bite tastes like home.
Ingredients
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour (280g)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter browned (226g)
- 1 cup dark brown sugar packed
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips or chunks
- flaky sea salt for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir constantly as it foams and sizzles. After 5–8 minutes, it will turn golden and smell nutty. Once the milk solids are browned, remove from heat and transfer to a bowl to cool.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine browned butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Whisk until smooth and glossy.
- Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each. Add vanilla and whisk vigorously until well combined and slightly thickened.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, folding gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Fold in chocolate chips or chunks.
- Cover and refrigerate dough for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best flavor and texture).
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Scoop about 2 tablespoons of dough per cookie onto trays, spacing 2 inches apart. Sprinkle with flaky salt if desired.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, until edges are golden and centers are just set. Cookies will continue baking on the tray after removal.
Notes
For best texture, don’t skip the chilling step. Try swapping chocolate chips for chunks or adding toasted nuts. Cookie dough can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 72 hours or frozen for 3 months. Baked cookies stay fresh in an airtight container for 4–5 days. Pair with milk, coffee, or ice cream for a cozy treat.