Bite-Sized Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
When it comes to cookies, few things can compete with the irresistible allure of warm, freshly baked chocolate chip cookies. Now, imagine that moment multiplied by the magic of brown butter, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, and the perfect bite-sized form. These Bite-Sized Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies are not just any cookies; they are the epitome of cookie perfection, perfectly crisp on the edges and chewy in the center. Whether you’re having a cozy night in or hosting friends, these little treats are bound to steal the show.
Why It Works Every Time
The secret to the success of these Bite-Sized Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies lies in the technique of browning the butter. Browning the butter adds a rich, nutty flavor that elevates the cookies to a whole new level. The combination of dark brown sugar and granulated sugar creates depth in taste, while the mini chocolate chips provide just the right amount of chocolate in every bite. Each element works in harmony, ensuring that every batch is consistently delicious.
What You’ll Gather
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon flaky sea salt
- 2 sticks (16 tablespoons; 8 ounces) unsalted butter
- 1 cup + 2 tablespoons dark brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 3 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 2 ½ cups mini chocolate chips
Equipment at a Glance
- Mixing bowls – for combining ingredients.
- Whisk – to ensure everything is well-blended.
- Baking sheet – for baking the cookies.
- Parchment paper – to line the baking sheet and prevent sticking.
- Cooling rack – to cool the cookies evenly.
The Method for Bite-Sized Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
Step 1: Brown the Butter
Start by placing the unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Allow it to melt completely, then continue to cook, stirring frequently. You’ll notice it will begin to foam and change color. Keep an eye on it as it turns a lovely golden brown and develops a nutty aroma. Once it reaches this stage, remove it from heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and flaky sea salt. This ensures an even distribution of leavening and seasoning.
Step 3: Combine Sugars
In a separate bowl, combine the dark brown sugar and granulated sugar. Pour in the slightly cooled brown butter and mix until combined. This rich mixture will be the base for your cookie dough.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher cookies.
Step 6: Fold in the Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 7: Chill the Dough
For the best texture, cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step helps to prevent spreading during baking.
Step 8: Preheat the Oven
While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
Step 9: Scoop and Bake
Once chilled, use a small cookie scoop to portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
Step 10: Cool and Enjoy
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely. Enjoy your Bite-Sized Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies warm or at room temperature!
Year-Round Variations
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon for a warm, cozy twist.
- Incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
- Substitute half of the chocolate chips with dried cranberries or raisins for a fruity flavor.
- Use white chocolate chips or peanut butter chips for a different chocolate experience.
Chef’s Rationale
- The browning of butter is essential as it transforms the flavor profile of the cookies, giving them a deep, rich taste.
- Mini chocolate chips are used instead of regular-sized chips as they distribute more evenly, allowing for a little chocolate in every bite.
- Chilling the dough prevents the cookies from spreading too much, resulting in a perfect texture.
- Using a mix of dark brown sugar and granulated sugar creates a well-rounded sweetness that complements the richness of the brown butter.
Best Ways to Store
To keep your Bite-Sized Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the baked cookies in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Handy Q&A
Can I use regular-sized chocolate chips instead of mini ones?
Yes, you can use regular-sized chocolate chips, but keep in mind that they may not distribute as evenly throughout the dough, leading to less chocolate in each bite.
Is it necessary to chill the dough?
While it is not absolutely necessary, chilling the dough helps to prevent spreading and promotes a chewier texture, making for a better cookie overall.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just ensure you have enough baking sheets and space in your refrigerator for chilling the dough, as doubling will yield a larger batch of cookies.
What if I don’t have flaky sea salt?
If you don’t have flaky sea salt, you can substitute it with regular kosher salt or table salt. Just use a little less, as table salt is more concentrated.
Serve & Enjoy
These Bite-Sized Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies are the perfect addition to any gathering, or even as a sweet treat for yourself. They are a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more. Whether you serve them fresh out of the oven or pack them up for a friend, these cookies are sure to bring joy to anyone who takes a bite. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and prepare to indulge in cookie bliss!
Bite-Sized Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Brown the Butter - Start by placing the unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Allow it to melt completely, then continue to cook, stirring frequently. You’ll notice it will begin to foam and change color. Keep an eye on it as it turns a lovely golden brown and develops a nutty aroma. Once it reaches this stage, remove it from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and flaky sea salt. This ensures an even distribution of leavening and seasoning.
- Step 3: Combine Sugars - In a separate bowl, combine the dark brown sugar and granulated sugar. Pour in the slightly cooled brown butter and mix until combined. This rich mixture will be the base for your cookie dough.
- Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla - Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.
- Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients - Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher cookies.
- Step 6: Fold in the Chocolate Chips - Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Step 7: Chill the Dough - For the best texture, cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step helps to prevent spreading during baking.
- Step 8: Preheat the Oven - While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
- Step 9: Scoop and Bake - Once chilled, use a small cookie scoop to portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
- Step 10: Cool and Enjoy - Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely. Enjoy your Bite-Sized Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies warm or at room temperature!
Notes
- Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes to achieve the best texture.
- For a twist, add cinnamon or nuts to the dough.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
