Introduction to Brown Butter Brookies
What's the buzz about brookies?
Are you looking for that perfect dessert to impress your friends or simply indulge in a delicious treat? The answer lies in the heavenly world of brown butter brookies, a sweet fusion of gooey brownies and decadent chocolate chip cookies. This delightful combination has taken dessert lovers by storm, and it’s easy to see why!
Brookies combine the rich fudginess of brownies and the chewy goodness of cookies, creating a delightful flavor profile that caters to all sweet tooth cravings. The star of this recipe, brown butter, adds a nutty depth that elevates the overall taste. By browning the butter, you enhance its flavor, giving your brookies a warm, toasty note that’s hard to resist.
If you’re curious to see what all the excitement is about, you’re in the right place! Not only are these brookies utterly delicious, but they’re also surprisingly simple to make. Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting, this recipe is perfect for anyone wanting to impress at their next gathering. So roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into the world of brown butter brookies! For more baking inspiration, check out sites like King Arthur Baking or Bon Appétit for great tips and tricks.
Ingredients for Brown Butter Brookies
Creating the perfect brown butter brookies is all about using quality ingredients that enhance their gooey texture and rich flavor. Let’s break down what you’ll need for each delectable layer!
For the Chocolate Chip Cookie Layer
- Unsalted Butter: ½ cup (113 g), browned and chilled for one hour. This adds a nutty depth to your cookies.
- Granulated Sugar: ¼ cup (50 g) for sweetness.
- Light Brown Sugar: ⅓ cup (66 g), packed; its molasses content keeps the cookies moist.
- Large Egg: 1, at room temperature, to bind everything together.
- Vanilla Extract: ¾ teaspoon, because can you ever have too much vanilla?
- All-Purpose Flour: 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons (143 g), spooned and leveled for that perfect cookie structure.
- Baking Soda: ½ teaspoon to help them rise.
- Kosher Salt: ¼ teaspoon for a balanced flavor.
- Chocolate Chips: ¾ cup (120 g); a mix of bittersweet and semi-sweet adds complexity.
For the Brownie Layer
- Bittersweet Chocolate: 5 ounces (60% cacao), for that rich, chocolatey goodness.
- Unsalted Butter: ¼ cup (57 g), gives the brownies their decadent texture.
- Large Egg: 1 plus 1 egg yolk, both at room temperature, for extra fudginess.
- Granulated Sugar: ⅓ cup (66 g) to sweeten.
- Light Brown Sugar: ¼ cup (50 g), packed, for richness.
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon, because the more the merrier!
- Baking Powder: ¼ teaspoon for a slight rise.
- All-Purpose Flour: ⅓ cup (42 g), spooned and leveled for structure.
- Dutch Process Cocoa Powder: 3 tablespoons (23 g), sifted, for that deep cocoa flavor.
- Kosher Salt: ¼ teaspoon to enhance the sweetness.
These simple yet essential ingredients unite to create brown butter brookies that are irresistibly soft and flavorful! For baking tips and expert takes on cookie and brownie creation, check out resources from King Arthur Baking and Serious Eats.
Step-by-Step Preparation of Brown Butter Brookies
Making brown butter brookies is an adventure that combines two of the most beloved desserts: cookies and brownies. Follow these simple steps to create a treat that will elevate any gathering. Let’s dive right in!
Brown the Butter for the Cookie Layer
First things first—browning the butter is where the magic begins. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, place your unsalted butter. As it melts, keep an eye on it. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. Soon you'll notice it foaming and crackling. Keep stirring until you see tiny golden brown bits settle at the bottom of the pan, and the butter turns an amber color, releasing a nutty aroma. This process usually takes about 4-5 minutes. Once done, pour the brown butter into a heat-safe bowl and chill it in the refrigerator for about an hour. The cooling helps solidify the butter, making it perfect for your cookie dough.
Prepare the Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough
Once your butter has firmed up, take it out and place it in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment. Add your granulated and brown sugars, beating on medium-high speed for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes light and fluffy. Mix in one large egg and a splash of vanilla. In a separate bowl, whisk together your all-purpose flour, baking soda, and kosher salt. With the mixer on low, gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be cautious not to over-mix, as that's the secret to keeping your cookie layer soft. Finally, fold in the chocolate chips and set this dough aside.
Make the Brownie Batter
In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the bittersweet chocolate and unsalted butter together, stirring frequently until smooth. This will serve as the rich foundation for your brownie layer. Next, in the bowl of a stand mixer (this time using the whisk attachment), combine one large egg, an egg yolk, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla. Beat this mixture on high for about 5 minutes until it thickens and lightens in color. Add the melted chocolate mixture while mixing on low. After incorporating this, fold in the sifted flour, cocoa, baking powder, and salt—being careful to mix until just combined.
Layer the Cookie Dough and Brownie Batter
To assemble your brown butter brookies, start by spooning about one-third of the brownie mixture into the bottom of a greased 8x8 inch pan, smoothing it out with an offset spatula. Alternate spoonfuls of the chocolate chip cookie dough and brownie batter across the pan, creating a marbled look. Continue until the batters are used up. Be gentle with the pressing; you want to level it slightly but not lose the character of the layers.
Bake the Brookies to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake your brookies for approximately 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges have a lovely golden hue, and the center appears set. If your cookie layer starts browning too quickly, gently lay a piece of aluminum foil over the top. For gooey brookies, lean toward the shorter baking time; for firmer bars, bake longer. Once baked, cool the pan completely before slicing—this helps achieve the neatest cuts. Want sharp edges? Chill in the fridge for about an hour post-baking.
And there you have it! Your brown butter brookies are ready to impress friends and family alike. Enjoy!
Variations on Brown Butter Brookies
Nutty brookies with walnuts or pecans
For an extra crunch, incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into your brown butter brookies. Simply fold in about ½ cup of your preferred nuts into the chocolate chip cookie layer. The nutty flavor complements the richness of the brown butter beautifully and adds delightful texture to every bite. If you're a fan of a bit of salty flavor, lightly toasting the nuts before adding them can elevate the overall taste.
Swirled brookies with peanut butter
Take your brown butter brookies to the next level by introducing creamy peanut butter. Before layering, warm about ½ cup of peanut butter and swirl it into the brownie batter, or dollop spoonfuls on top of the assembled batter for a marbled effect. This variation creates a deliciously nutty and rich experience that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Want a fun twist? Use other nut butters like almond or cashew for diverse flavors!
Explore these variations and make your brookies uniquely yours—there's no wrong way to enjoy this delightful treat!
Baking Notes for Brown Butter Brookies
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Making brown butter brookies is a delightful experience, but a few common pitfalls can creep in. Here are some tips to ensure your treats turn out wonderfully every time:
- Don’t Rush the Brown Butter: The browning process is essential for flavor. Keep an eye on it—burned butter can ruin your brookies.
- Chill Your Brown Butter: Allowing it to cool for an hour ensures your cookie layer is the right consistency. Patience pays off!
- Avoid Overmixing: When combining dry and wet ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough brookies instead of soft, fudgy goodness.
- Watch Your Baking Time: Every oven is different. Keep a close eye on your brookies to achieve that perfect gooey center and crisp edges.
For more baking tips, check out the Joy of Cooking or Serious Eats for expert insights!
Serving Suggestions for Brown Butter Brookies
Perfect pairings with dessert drinks
Brown butter brookies are the perfect treat to satisfy your sweet tooth, but pairing them with the right dessert drink can elevate your experience to a whole new level. Consider serving them alongside a rich cup of hot chocolate, which complements the flavors beautifully, making for a cozy afternoon snack.
For a refreshing twist, try pairing your brookies with vanilla bean milkshakes. The creamy texture and slight sweetness of the shake balance the decadent brownie and cookie layers perfectly. If you prefer something lighter, a nice cup of chai tea, with its warm spices, can bring out the nutty flavor of the brown butter.
Experimenting with these pairings can turn a simple dessert into a delightful culinary adventure. Would you serve yours with a different drink? Let us know!
Tips for Making Perfect Brown Butter Brookies
Storage tips for fresh brookies
To keep your brown butter brookies fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you want to savor them for longer, consider freezing them. Wrap each brookie tightly in plastic wrap and follow with aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. For the best texture upon defrosting, let them come to room temperature before indulging. Remember, enjoying them slightly warm or reheated can elevate the gooeyness and flavor, making each bite even more irresistible! For more tips on storage and delicious desserts, check out The Kitchn.
Time Breakdown for Brown Butter Brookies
Preparation time
To create these delicious brown butter brookies, set aside about 75 minutes. This includes cooling the brown butter for 60 minutes and mixing the cookie and brownie bases.
Baking time
While the anticipation might be hard to bear, the actual baking will only take 25 to 35 minutes. Adjust the time depending on your preferred texture!
Total time
Overall, you’ll need approximately 2 hours to indulge in these delectable treats from start to finish, including cooling and slicing. Perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up or dessert!
For additional tips and insight on baking, feel free to explore sources like Food52 or Serious Eats for guidance!
Nutritional Information for Brown Butter Brookies
Calories
Indulging in a square of these brown butter brookies means treating yourself to approximately 350 calories per serving. Ideal for those cozy evenings, they're a deliciously rich reward after a long day.
Sugar Content
With about 25 grams of sugar per serving, these brookies perfectly balance sweetness and satisfaction. While it’s best to enjoy them in moderation, they’re fantastic for a special treat!
Protein
Each serving offers around 3 grams of protein, thanks to the egg and chocolate chips. Though not a primary source, every little boost counts when snacking on your favorites.
FAQs about Brown Butter Brookies
How do I know when the brookies are done?
A great question! The best way to tell if your brown butter brookies are done is to look for that perfect golden edge. They should be set in the center but still slightly soft; this usually takes about 25 minutes at 350°F. If the edges start browning too quickly, tenting them with a piece of foil can help. For that extra gooey texture, aim for the lower end of the baking time, while firmer brookies can bake a bit longer.
Can I freeze brown butter brookies?
Absolutely! These delicious treats freeze like a dream. Simply wrap your brookies tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil for added protection. They can last for several months in the freezer. To enjoy, just let them defrost at room temperature for a few hours, and you’ll be ready for that perfect bite again!
What are the best chocolate chips to use in brookies?
When crafting your brown butter brookies, a mix of chocolate chips works wonderfully! Consider using a combination of bittersweet and semi-sweet chips for a delightful balance of sweetness and richness. Brands like Ghirardelli or Guittard are top choices for high-quality chocolate that melts beautifully and enhances the flavor of your brookies. For an extra touch, try adding some chopped chocolate bars for varied texture!
Conclusion on Brown Butter Brookies
In summary, brown butter brookies offer a delightful fusion of textures and flavors that any dessert lover will appreciate. Whether for a special occasion or a cozy night in, these treats are sure to impress. Enjoy the joy of baking and savor each bite!
For more dessert inspiration, check out Serious Eats or visit America's Test Kitchen.
Brown Butter Brookies
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- stand mixer
- 8 x 8 inch pan
- Offset Spatula
- whisk
Ingredients
Chocolate Chip Cookie Layer
- ½ cup unsalted butter, browned and chilled for one hour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg room temperature
- ¾ teaspoon vanilla
- 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour spooned and leveled
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¾ cup chocolate chips mix of bittersweet and semi-sweet chips
Brownie Layer
- 5 ounces bittersweet chocolate 60% cocoa
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 1 large egg plus one egg yolk, room temperature
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour spooned and leveled
- 3 tablespoons Dutch process cocoa sifted
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough
- To brown the butter, place butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until butter has melted. Continue stirring often as butter begins to foam and crackle. Do not leave the butter unattended at this stage. Stir the butter as it sizzles and after about 4-5 minutes, bits of golden brown butter will fall to the bottom of the pan. The crackling sound will stop and the butter will be aromatic and amber in color.
- Remove the butter from the heat and pour it into a heat safe bowl. Place the bowl of brown butter in the refrigerator for about 60 minutes or until cooled and firm to the touch.
- Once cooled, spoon the brown butter into the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment.
- Add the sugars and beat on medium high speed for 2 to 3 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla and mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the flour mixture in 3 additions. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. Do not over mix. A few streaks of flour remaining is ideal.
- Remove the bowl from the stand mixer and use a spatula to fold in the chocolate chips. Set aside until ready to assemble.
Brownie Layer
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Spray a 8 x 8 inch pan with non-stick baking spray and line the bottom and sides with parchment paper. Allow the edges of the parchment to extend over the sides for easy removal of the bars once cooled.
- In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the chocolate and butter together. Stir often until the butter is melted and the chocolate is smooth and shiny. Remove the pan from the heat and set aside to cool slightly.
- In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, beat together the egg, egg yolk, sugars and vanilla on high speed for 4 to 5 minutes until the mixture is thick and pale in color.
- Reduce the speed to low and add in the cooled, melted chocolate and butter mixture. Mix until incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa, baking powder and salt.
- Remove the bowl from the mixer and use a spatula or wooden spoon to fold in the dry ingredients until just barely combined. Do not over mix.
- To assemble the brookies, spoon about ⅓ of the brownie mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan using an offset spatula to roughly smooth it evenly across the bottom of the pan. Alternate spoonfuls of cookie dough and brownie batter across the pan, creating a marbled look. Continue until all of the cookie dough and brownie batter are used.
- Gently press the mixture down with an offset spatula, leveling the top just slightly. Do not over work the dough or flatten the brookies too much.
- Bake at 350°F for about 25 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set. If the cookie dough begins to brown too quickly, place a piece of aluminum foil loosely across the top and continue baking.
- For firmer brookies, bake for closer to 30 to 35 minutes. For gooey brookies, bake for less time.
- Remove the pan from the oven and cool completely before slicing. For sharp edges and even slices, chill the brookies for one hour before slicing with a sharp knife.
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