If you have a sweet tooth and craving for something irresistibly soft and delightfully flavorful, this Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies Recipe is exactly what you need. These cookies shine with that deep caramel richness from browned sugar and the perfect chewy texture that keeps you coming back for just one more bite. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll become your go-to treat for any occasion, bringing warmth and smile with every delicious mouthful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple staples that you likely have on hand, yet each plays an essential role in creating that signature chewiness and rich flavor of these cookies. From the lightly softened butter to the perfectly measured brown sugar, together they deliver a harmony of texture and taste that’s hard to beat.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: This provides the structure for your cookies, giving them that tender but sturdy chew.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Acts as a leavening agent, helping your cookies rise just right without being cakey.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all other flavors.
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened: Key for richness and that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- 1 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark): The star ingredient for chewiness and deep caramel flavor.
- 1 large egg: Provides moisture and bonds the dough together beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, fragrant note that makes these cookies feel extra special.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling): Gives a delightful slight crunch on the outside and a sparkling finish.
How to Make Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
Start by combining your flour, baking soda, and salt in a bowl. This ensures your leavening is evenly distributed and the salt balances the upcoming sweetness perfectly. Mixing these dry ingredients first sets the foundation for a fantastic cookie texture.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter with the brown sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it aerates the dough, helping your cookies develop that irresistible chewiness and slightly crispy edges once baked.
Step 3: Add the Egg and Vanilla
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract into your buttery mixture. These add richness and depth, making sure every bite feels indulgent and comforting, with that classic warm cookie aroma.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Slowly mix the dry ingredients into the wet, just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, or your cookies might turn out tough instead of chewy and tender. This careful folding also maintains the perfect balance of chew and softness.
Step 5: Shape and Roll in Sugar
Roll the dough into small balls, then gently coat each one in granulated sugar. This adds a gorgeous sparkle and that little bit of crunch on the outside that contrasts beautifully with the chewy center.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place your sugar-coated dough balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–12 minutes. The edges should look set while the centers remain soft, guaranteeing that perfect chewy bite.
How to Serve Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling a pinch of flaky sea salt atop your cookies right after baking can elevate their flavor by adding a sharp contrast to the sweetness. A drizzle of melted chocolate or a dusting of powdered sugar also transforms these simple cookies into elegant treats.
Side Dishes
Chewy brown sugar cookies pair beautifully with a tall glass of cold milk, a warm cup of coffee, or even a creamy chai latte for a cozy snack session. They also make a delicious companion to fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert indulgence.
Creative Ways to Present
Pack these cookies in pretty cellophane bags tied with ribbon as thoughtful homemade gifts. Or stack them with wax paper between layers in a decorative tin for an inviting presentation that’s perfect to bring to parties or share with loved ones.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay chewy and soft for up to a week, making them a perfect ready-to-go snack whenever cravings strike.
Freezing
You can freeze the unbaked cookie dough balls by placing them on a baking sheet and freezing until firm, then transferring them to a freezer bag. When ready, bake straight from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. This is a fantastic way to enjoy fresh cookies anytime.
Reheating
If your cookies lose some of their chewiness over time, a quick zap in the microwave for about 10 seconds can bring back that soft, freshly baked texture. Just be careful not to overheat, or they might become too soft.
FAQs
Can I substitute brown sugar with white sugar?
While white sugar can be used, brown sugar is essential for that classic chewy texture and caramel flavor. Substituting will change both taste and texture, making cookies crisper and less flavorful.
Why are my cookies not chewy?
Overbaking or using too much flour can make the cookies dry and crumbly. Be sure to follow the time carefully and measure ingredients accurately to keep them perfectly chewy.
Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?
Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even dried fruit enhances the flavor and texture. Just fold them in with the dry ingredients before shaping the dough.
Is it okay to use salted butter instead of unsalted?
You can, but reduce the added salt slightly to avoid an overly salty cookie. Unsalted butter gives you more control over the final taste.
How long do these cookies stay fresh?
Stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies stay fresh and chewy for about one week at room temperature, making them a great make-ahead treat.
Final Thoughts
This Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies Recipe has all the things that make a cookie unforgettable: simplicity, rich flavor, and the perfect chewy texture that comforts and delights. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a go and create warm, joyful moments around your kitchen with every batch you bake. Once you try these, I’m sure they’ll become your favorite treat to share and savor again and again.
Print
Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 18 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These chewy brown sugar cookies are a delightful treat with a soft, tender center and a slightly crisp edge. Made with rich brown sugar and rolled in granulated sugar, they offer the perfect balance of sweetness and chewiness. Easy to prepare and perfect for sharing!
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Rolling
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature while you prepare the dough.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and seasoning.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, using an electric mixer or hand whisk, cream the softened unsalted butter and packed brown sugar together until light and fluffy. This process helps to incorporate air and ensures a tender cookie.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined, creating a smooth cookie dough base.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing as it can lead to tougher cookies.
- Roll Cookies in Sugar: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, form dough balls about 1 inch in diameter. Roll each ball lightly in granulated sugar to create a sweet, crunchy coating.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the rolled dough balls on an ungreased baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers appear set but still soft.
- Cool Properly: Remove from the oven and let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them firm up without becoming hard.
Notes
- Use light or dark brown sugar depending on your preference; dark brown sugar provides a deeper molasses flavor.
- For an extra chewy texture, slightly underbake the cookies and allow them to finish cooking on the hot baking sheet.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- You can add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a spiced variation.
- Ensure butter is softened but not melted for the best creaming results.
