If you have a sweet tooth and crave something irresistibly soft and delightful, this Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies Recipe is the one to make your day. These cookies are the perfect balance of tender chewiness and rich caramel notes thanks to the dark brown sugar, creating a warm, comforting treat that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just an everyday pick-me-up, these cookies deliver a nostalgic, homemade goodness that’s truly unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and pantry-friendly, each playing a crucial role in bringing out the classic chewy texture and deep flavor that defines this beloved cookie. From the creamy butter that provides richness, to the dark brown sugar which infuses every bite with molasses undertones, each element is essential in crafting this delightful treat.
- 1 cup dark brown sugar: Adds moisture and that signature chewy texture with a hint of molasses flavor.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Balances the sweetness and helps create a slightly crisp edge.
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides creamy richness and helps bind the dough smoothly.
- 1 large egg + 1 egg yolk: Eggs add structure and extra chewiness, with the yolk contributing to tenderness.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the dough, giving the cookies their body and chew.
- 1 tsp baking soda: Ensures just enough rise and spread for perfect cookie shape.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances the sweetness and rounds out flavors.
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract: Infuses the batter with warm, aromatic notes that elevate the overall flavor.
How to Make Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a perfectly hot environment for your cookies to bake evenly, developing those golden edges that contrast beautifully with soft centers. Meanwhile, line your baking sheets with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, dark brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air, which lightens the dough and helps create tender textures within the cookie.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Next, beat in the large egg and extra egg yolk followed by the vanilla extract. The additional yolk is a sneaky trick to boost chewiness without compromising softness, while the vanilla adds that classic depth of flavor.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until everything is combined. Overmixing can make cookies tough, so keep it gentle.
Step 5: Scoop the Dough
Use a spoon or cookie scoop to portion rounded balls of dough onto your prepared baking sheets. Be sure to leave enough space between cookies so they can spread out without sticking together.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake your cookies for 10-12 minutes. The secret to that perfect chewy cookie lies in removing them from the oven when the edges are golden but the centers still look slightly soft. They will firm up during cooling, giving you that tender bite you’re after.
How to Serve Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
While these cookies are delicious on their own, sprinkling a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt on top right before baking can take the flavor to the next level by balancing sweetness with a subtle saltiness. You could also try a light drizzle of melted chocolate or a dusting of cinnamon for extra flair.
Side Dishes
Pair your chewy brown sugar cookies with a cold glass of milk for a timeless classic combination. They also go wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee or chai tea, making them a perfect mid-afternoon treat or after-dinner indulgence.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, sandwich two cookies together with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a generous spread of cream cheese frosting. You can also arrange them in a gift box tied with a ribbon to share the love with friends and family – they make the perfect homemade gift!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your chewy brown sugar cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay soft and delicious for about 4 to 5 days. Adding a slice of bread inside the container helps maintain their moisture.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these cookies later, you can freeze the baked cookies by placing them in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper separating each layer. They stay good for up to 2 months. Alternatively, freeze the cookie dough balls and bake fresh whenever a cookie craving strikes.
Reheating
Warm your cookies in the microwave for about 10 seconds or pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F for a few minutes to bring back that irresistible soft, chewy texture that makes this Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies Recipe so beloved.
FAQs
Can I substitute the dark brown sugar with light brown sugar?
Yes, you can use light brown sugar if that’s what you have on hand. It will still provide a lovely flavor and chewiness, though the depth of molasses notes may be slightly lighter than with dark brown sugar.
Why do I need both an egg and an extra egg yolk?
The whole egg adds structure and moisture, while the extra egg yolk enhances richness and chewiness, giving you that perfect tender bite without sacrificing softness.
How do I make the cookies crispier instead of chewy?
To achieve crispier cookies, bake them a little longer until golden throughout and consider reducing the brown sugar slightly. Also, using only whole eggs without the extra yolk can reduce chewiness.
Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?
Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even dried fruit can wonderfully complement the chewy base and bring in new layers of flavor and texture.
What is the best way to scoop cookie dough evenly?
A cookie scoop or tablespoon measure helps create uniform cookie sizes, ensuring they bake evenly and look beautifully consistent.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a comforting cookie that combines rich flavor with that ideal chewy texture, this Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies Recipe is a must-try. It’s simple to make, uses everyday ingredients, and delivers delicious results every time. I promise once you bake these, they will become your go-to cookie for sharing or a sweet little escape at any moment. Happy baking!
Print
Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These chewy brown sugar cookies boast a soft, tender center with perfectly golden edges. Made with a rich blend of dark brown and granulated sugar, combined with butter and vanilla, these cookies deliver a classic nostalgic sweetness that’s irresistible in every bite. Perfect for baking enthusiasts looking for a simple yet delicious cookie recipe.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup dark brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) ensuring it reaches the right temperature before baking for even cooking.
- Cream butter and sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, dark brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, which helps create the chewy texture.
- Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the whole egg and egg yolk, followed by the vanilla extract, mixing until everything is fully incorporated for richness and flavor.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt, to ensure even distribution of the leavening and seasoning.
- Mix wet and dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined to avoid overmixing, which keeps cookies tender.
- Scoop the dough: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded balls of dough onto baking sheets lined with parchment or silicone mats, spacing them well apart to allow for spreading.
- Bake: Place trays in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until the edges turn golden while the centers remain soft, which yields that perfect chewy texture.
- Cool and serve: Remove cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack or serving, allowing them to set properly.
Notes
- For softer cookies, avoid overbaking and pull them out as soon as edges are golden.
- If you prefer crispier cookies, extend baking time by a minute or two.
- Using room temperature butter helps achieve the right creaming consistency.
- Storage: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Adding a pinch of cinnamon can enhance the flavor profile.
