There is something incredibly comforting and nostalgic about a batch of homemade cookies, and this Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies Recipe truly hits that sweet spot. These cookies boast a rich molasses-like depth from the dark brown sugar, a tender chewiness that melts in your mouth, and just the perfect amount of buttery goodness. Whether you’re craving a quick treat after a long day or planning to impress at a gathering, these cookies deliver that warm, home-baked magic every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies Recipe lies in its straightforward and humble ingredients. Each item plays a crucial role—from the softness of the butter to the flavorful depth in brown sugar—building the foundation for perfect texture and sweetness.
- 1 cup dark brown sugar: Adds rich molasses flavor and incredible moisture for chewiness.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Balances sweetness and creates slight crisp edges.
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides tender richness without overwhelming saltiness.
- 1 large egg + 1 egg yolk: Binds ingredients and adds extra softness and chewiness.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the structure while keeping cookies tender.
- 1 tsp baking soda: Helps cookies rise just enough for a light texture.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract: Adds warm aromatic notes to every bite.
How to Make Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Getting the oven ready early ensures your cookies bake evenly and come out perfect every time.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, dark brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step is where the cookie’s base texture begins to form and ensures your cookies stay moist and tender.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Mix in the large egg and additional egg yolk, then stir in the pure vanilla extract. This combination enriches the dough, contributing to the chewy texture that makes this recipe so addictive.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures the raising agent and salt are evenly distributed to promote consistent flavor and texture.
Step 5: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet one, stirring gently until just combined. Overmixing can make cookies tough, so take your time for that perfect chewy bite.
Step 6: Scoop and Bake
Drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment, spacing them apart to allow room for spreading. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges are golden while the centers remain soft and inviting.
How to Serve Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
While these cookies are fantastic on their own, a light dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt can elevate their flavor and appearance, making them irresistible for guests.
Side Dishes
Pair your chewy cookies with a cold glass of milk, a warm cup of chai tea, or rich coffee to create a heartwarming treat perfect for any time of day.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the cookies on a rustic wooden board alongside fresh berries or dollops of whipped cream for a charming dessert platter. You can also sandwich two cookies with vanilla ice cream for an easy and delightful ice cream sandwich.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay chewy and delicious for up to a week, making them perfect for midweek sweet cravings.
Freezing
You can freeze the cookie dough by shaping it into a log, wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap, and freezing for up to 3 months. Slice and bake fresh cookies whenever the mood strikes. Alternatively, fully baked cookies can also be frozen and thawed later for convenience.
Reheating
To revive the chewy texture, warm cookies in a microwave for about 10 seconds or in a low oven (300°F) for 5 minutes. A quick reheat brings out that just-baked softness and aroma you love.
FAQs
Can I use light brown sugar instead of dark brown sugar?
Yes, you can substitute light brown sugar if that’s what you have on hand, though dark brown sugar gives a richer molasses flavor that’s signature to this Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies Recipe.
Why do my cookies turn out cakey instead of chewy?
Overmixing the dough or adding too much flour can lead to cakey cookies. Be sure to mix just until combined and measure flour carefully for that perfect chewiness.
Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?
Absolutely! Chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even dried fruit can be great additions, adding texture and extra bursts of flavor to your chewy brown sugar cookies.
How do I make these cookies thicker?
Chill the dough before baking to prevent too much spreading, or slightly reduce the butter by a tablespoon to achieve a thicker, chewier cookie.
Are these cookies gluten-free?
This recipe uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. To make gluten-free cookies, try substituting with a gluten-free baking flour blend, but results may vary in texture.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a classic, cozy treat that’s easy to whip up and guaranteed to satisfy, this Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies Recipe is your new go-to. From the first bite to the last crumb, these cookies bring warmth, comfort, and a little bit of magic to your kitchen. Don’t wait—bake a batch today and experience cookie bliss the way it was meant to be.
Print
Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies are the perfect treat for anyone craving a soft, chewy bite packed with rich brown sugar flavor. With a balanced blend of brown and granulated sugars, softened butter, and a touch of vanilla, these cookies bake up tender with golden edges and tender centers, making them an irresistible classic dessert.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup dark brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 egg yolk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the cookies, ensuring it reaches the right temperature before you begin.
- Cream butter and sugars: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, dark brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Use a mixer or spoon to cream them together until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
- Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the whole egg and egg yolk to the creamed mixture, then stir in the vanilla extract, blending everything thoroughly until well combined.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt to ensure the leavening and seasoning are evenly distributed.
- Combine wet and dry mixes: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until the dough comes together. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
- Shape the cookies: Scoop rounded balls of dough and place them spaced apart on baking sheets lined with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking.
- Bake: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. The cookies should have golden edges while the centers remain soft.
- Cool before serving: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your chewy treats!
Notes
- Do not overbake; cookies with golden edges and soft centers yield the best chewy texture.
- Use room temperature butter for easier creaming and better dough consistency.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or a handful of chocolate chips.
- Store cooled cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness and chewiness.
