Brown Sugar Chocolate Chip Cookies
There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm batch of cookies fresh from the oven. Brown Sugar Chocolate Chip Cookies, with their chewy texture and rich flavor, are a delightful treat that can turn any day around. The combination of brown sugar and chocolate chunks creates a sweet, caramel-like essence that is simply irresistible. Whether you enjoy them with a glass of milk or as an afternoon snack, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your household.
What Makes This Recipe Special
What sets these Brown Sugar Chocolate Chip Cookies apart from the rest? The answer lies in the ingredients and the method. By using melted unsalted butter, we achieve a rich, moist cookie that has a slightly chewy texture. The brown sugar not only adds sweetness but also enhances the flavor with its subtle molasses notes. The inclusion of chocolate chunks, instead of traditional chips, ensures that each bite is filled with gooey chocolate goodness. With just the right amount of sea salt sprinkled on top, these cookies balance sweetness with a touch of savory, making them utterly addictive.
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 1/3 cup white sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 10 oz. bag of chocolate chunks
- Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling
Equipment & Tools
- Mixing bowls: For combining ingredients efficiently.
- Whisk: To blend the wet ingredients smoothly.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accurate measurements for perfect cookies.
- Baking sheet: A sturdy surface for baking the cookies.
- Parchment paper: To prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Cooling rack: For allowing cookies to cool evenly.
Brown Sugar Chocolate Chip Cookies, Made Easy
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial to ensure that the cookies bake evenly and develop that perfect golden-brown color.
Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and white sugar until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and glossy. Next, add the eggs and vanilla extract, continuing to whisk until everything is incorporated.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This step helps ensure the baking soda is evenly distributed throughout the flour, preventing any clumps.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
Step 5: Fold in the Chocolate Chunks
Gently fold in the chocolate chunks, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. The more chocolate, the better!
Step 6: Scoop and Bake
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded portions of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving enough space between each cookie for spreading. Sprinkle a pinch of coarse sea salt on top of each dough ball before placing them in the oven.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden but the centers are still soft. Remember, they will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. This allows them to set and makes them easier to handle. Enjoy them warm or store them in an airtight container for later!
Season-by-Season Upgrades
- Spring: Add a handful of chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor.
- Summer: Incorporate a splash of citrus zest, such as lemon or orange, for a refreshing twist.
- Fall: Mix in some pumpkin spice or cinnamon for a cozy autumn flavor.
- Winter: Use peppermint extract instead of vanilla for a festive holiday version.
Insider Tips
- For extra chewy cookies, chill the dough for at least an hour before baking. This helps the flavors meld and results in a thicker cookie.
- If you prefer a deeper caramel flavor, try using dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar.
- Don’t skip the coarse sea salt! It enhances the overall flavor and adds a delightful contrast to the sweetness.
- For cookie lovers who appreciate variety, consider adding a mix of chocolate chunks and white chocolate or butterscotch chips for a flavor explosion.
Make Ahead Like a Pro
If you want to get a head start on your cookie cravings, here are some tips for preparing in advance:
- Cookie dough can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just scoop the dough onto the baking sheet when you’re ready to bake.
- You can also freeze the cookie dough in individual portions. Just scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. When you’re ready to bake, add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
- Baked cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or frozen for up to three months. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Questions People Ask
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While you can use margarine, it may affect the overall flavor and texture of the cookies. Unsalted butter is recommended for the best results.
Can I substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the cookies may be denser. You might consider a blend of whole wheat and all-purpose flour for a lighter texture.
How do I know when my cookies are done baking?
The cookies should be golden around the edges but still soft in the center. They will continue to set as they cool, so pulling them out slightly early is better than overbaking.
Can I add different mix-ins to the cookie dough?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different mix-ins such as dried fruits, nuts, or a variety of chocolate types for a unique flavor twist.
Save & Share
If you love these Brown Sugar Chocolate Chip Cookies as much as we do, don’t forget to share the recipe with your friends and family! Baking is always better when shared. Snap a photo of your delicious creations and tag us on social media; we’d love to see your cookie masterpieces!
The joy of baking is not just in the end result but in the process itself. So roll up your sleeves, invite a friend, and get ready to create the most scrumptious Brown Sugar Chocolate Chip Cookies that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a Tuesday afternoon, these cookies are sure to bring smiles and happiness. Enjoy every bite!
Brown Sugar Chocolate Chip Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and white sugar until smooth and glossy. Then add the eggs and vanilla extract, whisking until incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chunks until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded portions of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space for spreading. Sprinkle a pinch of coarse sea salt on top of each dough ball.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are golden and the centers are still soft.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
Notes
- Chill the dough for at least an hour for extra chewy cookies.
- For a deeper caramel flavor, use dark brown sugar.
- Don't skip the coarse sea salt for a delightful contrast to sweetness.
