There’s something undeniably comforting about the scent of cookies baking in the oven, especially when those cookies are made with buttery, nutty goodness. I recently found myself craving a classic chocolate chip treat, but I wanted to elevate my usual recipe into something extraordinary. That’s when the idea of browned butter chocolate chip cookies struck! The transformation of simple butter into a deeply caramelized delight adds a rich depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible.

Picture this: a warm, gooey cookie, golden at the edges with a soft center packed with semi-sweet chocolate, and just a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top. Each bite is a delightful mix of crispy and chewy, sweetness balanced by that nutty aroma. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or indulging after a long day, these cookies are a surefire crowd-pleaser. Grab your mixing bowl and let’s dive into making these decadent treats that will turn your ordinary afternoon into something special!

Why love Browned Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies?

Savor the difference: The use of browned butter introduces a nutty, complex flavor that elevates the traditional chocolate chip cookie to new heights.

Quick and easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delightful treat in no time, perfect for those busy days when you’re craving something homemade.

Classic with a twist: This recipe takes a beloved favorite and adds a unique twist that will impress friends and family alike.

Perfectly balanced: The combination of crispy edges and soft, chewy centers makes every bite a delicious experience.

Impressive yet approachable: These cookies are great for both novice bakers and experienced chefs looking to add a classic to their repertoire. Don’t forget to check out my tips for perfecting cookie dough with baking basics to enhance your baking journey!

Ingredients for Browned Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

Elevate your cookie game with these simple ingredients!

For the Cookie Dough
• Challenge® unsalted butter – 1 cup (2 sticks / 227 g), room temperature; browning this adds a rich, nutty flavor.
• Light brown sugar – 1 ½ cups (300 g), lightly packed; this helps to create the perfect chewiness.
• All-purpose flour – 2 ½ cups (312.5 g); provides structure to keep your cookies from spreading too much.
• Baking soda – 1 teaspoon; this gives the cookies a nice rise.
• Kosher salt – 1 teaspoon; enhances all the flavors in the cookies.
• Baking powder – ½ teaspoon; helps achieve a soft center.
• Eggs – 3 large (5.3 ounces), room temperature; these add moisture and stability.
• Vanilla extract – 2 teaspoons; brings warmth and enhances sweetness.
• Semi-sweet chocolate – 12 ounces, roughly chopped; the star that every cookie lover dreams of!

For the Topping
• Flaky sea salt – a sprinkle, for topping; this elevates the flavor and adds a delightful crunch.

Get ready to create the most delicious browned butter chocolate chip cookies that will surely impress everyone!

How to Make Browned Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a consistent baking temperature, helping your cookies achieve that perfect golden-brown edge.
Brown the butter by melting the room temperature unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Swirl occasionally until it turns a beautiful amber color and develops a nutty aroma—about 5-7 minutes.
Cream the browned butter and light brown sugar together in a mixing bowl until smooth and well combined, taking time to appreciate that delightful scent.
Add the eggs and vanilla to the bowl, mixing until everything is thoroughly blended. The mixture should look rich and glossy, hinting at the deliciousness to come!
Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, kosher salt, and baking powder in a separate bowl to ensure all dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
Combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture gradually, stirring until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this keeps the cookies tender.
Fold in the roughly chopped semi-sweet chocolate, ensuring each bite will be loaded with melty chocolate goodness.
Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto baking sheets lined with parchment paper, leaving space between them to allow for spreading.
Sprinkle a little flaky sea salt on top of each cookie mound before baking to enhance the flavors beautifully.
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the centers look slightly underbaked for the perfect chewy texture.
Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy them while they’re still warm for the ultimate treat!

Optional: Drizzle with a bit of melted chocolate for a decadent finish.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Browned Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies?

There’s nothing quite like pairing these decadent cookies with delightful accompaniments that elevate the experience.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm, buttery cookies, creating a classic dessert combo.
Fresh Berries: Juicy raspberries or strawberries add a tart freshness that balances the richness of the cookies; plus, they add a pop of color to your plate!
Milk: A cold glass of milk serves as the perfect dip for your cookies, enhancing that nostalgic cookie-and-milk moment we all love.
Coffee: A steaming cup of coffee complements the cookies’ sweetness with its rich, bitter notes, making it the ideal afternoon pick-me-up.
Chocolate Drizzle: Enhance their appeal by drizzling melted chocolate over the cookies. This indulgent addition heightens the chocolatey goodness!
Salted Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warmed salted caramel sauce on top for an extra layer of flavor. The sweet and salty blend pairs seamlessly with the nutty undertones of the cookies.

Imagine hosting a cozy gathering with friends or family, where these delightful pairings create an inviting atmosphere, encouraging everyone to savor each delicious moment together.

Expert Tips for Browned Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

Brown the butter perfectly: Keep an eye on the butter while it’s browning to prevent burning; you want a rich amber color and nutty smell, around 5-7 minutes.
Room temperature ingredients: Ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature beforehand. This helps achieve a smoother batter and better cookie texture.
Avoid overmixing: Once you combine wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies, so be gentle!
Use a cookie scoop: For uniformly sized cookies that bake evenly, consider using a cookie scoop. This also makes the dough-dropping process easier!
Cooling is key: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet briefly before moving them. This helps them set and prevents breakage, ensuring your browned butter chocolate chip cookies remain perfectly chewy.

How to Store and Freeze Browned Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and softness.

Fridge: For longer storage, keep the cookies in the fridge for up to 1 week. Be sure to place them in a sealed container to prevent them from drying out.

Freezer: Freeze unbaked cookie dough by placing rounded tablespoons of dough on a baking sheet, then transferring to a zip-top bag once frozen. Use within 3 months for optimal flavor and quality.

Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy a treat, bake frozen dough straight from the freezer for 12-14 minutes, or warm pre-baked cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Enjoy your indulgent browned butter chocolate chip cookies!

Variations & Substitutions for Browned Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

Feel free to play around with these delightful variations to make this recipe truly yours!

Nutty Twist: Add 1 cup of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch and flavor dimension. Nuts and chocolate are a match made in heaven!
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies suitable for gluten-sensitive friends. You won’t miss the wheat!
Dark Chocolate Delight: Use dark chocolate chunks instead of semi-sweet for a richer, more intense chocolate experience. It’s a sweet upgrade!
Spiced Up: Incorporate a teaspoon of cinnamon or a touch of espresso powder for a warm, spiced flavor profile. It adds a lovely depth that will surprise your taste buds.
Dairy-Free: Swap butter for coconut oil and chocolate for dairy-free chocolate chips to create a delicious dairy-free version everyone can enjoy. No one will notice the difference!
Caramel Swirl: Add a tablespoon of caramel sauce to the dough for a sweet, gooey surprise inside each cookie. It’s a delightful, sticky twist!
Minty Fresh: Mix in a teaspoon of peppermint extract for a refreshing flavor that’s perfect for the holiday season. You’ll love the zing it brings!
Chili Kick: For those who enjoy a little heat, sprinkle a hint of cayenne pepper into the cookie dough. It’s a bold and exciting twist that amplifies sweetness!

Make Ahead Options

These Browned Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for meal prep, making them a delightful choice for busy weeknights! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe until the dough is mixed, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, scoop the dough directly onto a baking sheet without thawing; just add an extra minute or two to the baking time to ensure they’re golden brown and soft in the center. This way, you can enjoy fresh cookies anytime while saving time and effort in your busy schedule!

Browned Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe FAQs

Which butter should I use for the best flavor?
I recommend using Challenge® unsalted butter for the richest taste. Ensure it’s at room temperature for easy creaming. This will make for a silky dough and enhance the nutty flavor when you brown it.

How long can I store these cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, place them in the fridge, where they can stay fresh for up to 1 week. Just make sure to seal them well to prevent them from drying out.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked dough for up to 3 months. Simply scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer the mounds into a zip-top bag. When you are ready to bake, you can bake the frozen dough straight from the freezer—just add an extra 2 minutes to the baking time, and you’ll have delicious cookies in no time!

What if my cookies turn out too flat?
If your cookies spread too much, it could be due to a few factors. Make sure both your butter and eggs are at room temperature, as cold ingredients can affect the dough’s consistency. Additionally, check that you are using the correct flour measurement; spooning the flour into the measuring cup rather than scooping it can prevent overpacking and lead to a thicker cookie.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Just keep in mind that the texture might vary slightly, but you’ll still get the wonderful flavor and chewiness we all love in these decadent browned butter chocolate chip cookies.

Are these cookies safe for my pet?
No, chocolate is toxic to pets, especially dogs. Be sure to keep these treats out of their reach, and enjoy them yourself knowing they are safe for human consumption!