Description

Rich, deeply flavored cookies with crisp caramelized edges and soft, fudgy centers, made using browned butter for an unbeatable nutty depth of flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup (226g) unsalted butter
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
1 cup (220g) light brown sugar, packed
2 large egg yolks
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 ¼ cups (280g) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon fine sea salt
2 cups (340g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
Flaky sea salt (for finishing)
1 cup toasted pecans or walnuts (optional)

Instructions

Cut butter into cubes and melt in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently until foam subsides and brown bits form at the bottom (5-7 minutes). Pour into a heatproof bowl and cool for 10-15 minutes until just warm.
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled brown butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat on medium-high speed for 3-4 minutes until light and fluffy.
Add egg yolks and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed until fully incorporated and smooth.
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients on low speed, mixing just until flour disappears.
Fold in chocolate chips (and nuts if using) with a silicone spatula.
Cover dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop dough into 2-inch balls, spacing them 2 inches apart.
Bake for 12-14 minutes until edges are golden brown but centers look slightly underbaked.
Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt while warm.

Notes

Ensure brown butter is cooled to just warm before mixing with sugar to prevent melting. Chill dough for best texture and to prevent excessive spreading. Do not overbake; cookies continue to cook on the hot pan. Use a kitchen scale for accurate flour measurement.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 14 minutes
Category: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cookie
Calories: 220
Sugar: 18
Sodium: 180
Fat: 12
Saturated Fat: 7
Carbohydrates: 28
Fiber: 1
Protein: 3

Keywords: brown butter cookies, chocolate chip cookies, fudgy cookies, holiday baking, cookie exchange, brown butter chocolate chip cookies