Creme Brûlée Cookies

These creme brûlée cookies are a delightful twist on the classic dessert. They combine the rich flavors of vanilla and buttery sweetness in a chewy cookie form. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies impress with their creamy filling and caramelized sugar topping. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging yourself, these cookies will surely stand out as a favorite treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Unique: These cookies capture the essence of creme brûlée, giving you the best of both worlds—a cookie and a dessert.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, you can whip up these treats even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen.
• Versatile for Occasions: Perfect for parties, holidays, or just a cozy night in; they suit any event beautifully.
• Impressive Presentation: The caramelized sugar topping adds an elegant touch that’s sure to wow your guests.
• Chewy Texture: The combination of soft and chewy makes for a satisfying bite that keeps you coming back for more.

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Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your creme brûlée cookies, gather your tools and prepare your workspace to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Rubber spatula
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar together for a fluffy texture.
• Baking sheets: Ensures even baking while providing ample space for all your cookies.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy, allowing cookies to slide off effortlessly.

Ingredients

These are the best creme brûlée cookies! They are chewy, buttery, soft sugar cookies with rich and creamy vanilla pastry cream topped with caramelized sugar.

For the Vanilla Pastry Cream

• 2 1/4 cups (540 ml) whole milk
• 6 egg yolks
• 1 cup + 2 tbsp (225 g) granulated white sugar
• 1/8 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 tbsp vanilla bean paste
• 3 1/2 tbsp (28 g) cornstarch
• 3 tbsp (42 g) unsalted butter, cut in cubes

For the Cookies

• 2 1/2 cups (313 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 1/4 cup (250 g) granulated white sugar
• 1 cup (224 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 egg
• 1 tbsp vanilla bean paste
• 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated white sugar (for rolling the dough in)
• 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated white sugar (for the brulee topping)

How to Make Creme Brûlée Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Vanilla Pastry Cream

Start by heating the milk in a saucepan over medium heat until it is simmering.

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, salt, cornstarch, and vanilla bean paste until smooth.
2. Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture while whisking continuously to temper the eggs.
3. Return this mixture to the saucepan over low heat. Stir constantly until it thickens.
4. Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted. Let cool before using.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

In this step, you’ll create the delicious cookie base.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy using an electric mixer.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla bean paste until well combined.
4. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Assemble Your Cookies

Now it’s time to bring everything together!

1. Scoop out portions of dough and flatten them slightly in your palm.
2. Place about one teaspoon of cooled pastry cream in the center of each dough portion.
3. Fold dough around cream to seal it completely.
4. Roll each ball into granulated sugar before placing on baking sheets lined with parchment paper.

Step 4: Bake Your Cookies

Bake them to perfection!

1. Bake for about 9 minutes or until lightly golden on edges but still soft in center.
2. Remove from oven; let cool slightly before sprinkling with additional granulated sugar for brulee topping.

Step 5: Caramelize Sugar Topping

Finish off with that signature crunch!

1. Using a kitchen torch or broiler carefully caramelize the sprinkled sugar on top of each cookie until golden brown.
2. Let them cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your delightful creation!

How to Serve Creme Brûlée Cookies

Creme brûlée cookies are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways. These chewy, buttery cookies offer a unique twist on the classic dessert and can be enjoyed with different accompaniments to enhance their rich flavor.

With a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Pairing these cookies with vanilla or caramel ice cream creates a delicious contrast in textures and flavors.

As an Afternoon Snack

• Enjoy a warm cookie alongside your favorite cup of tea or coffee for a perfect afternoon pick-me-up.

At Parties

• Serve these cookies on a dessert platter at gatherings. They are sure to impress guests with their creamy filling and crunchy topping.

With Fresh Berries

• Add some fresh strawberries or raspberries on the side to balance the sweetness of the cookies with tartness.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• A drizzle of chocolate sauce over the top adds an extra layer of indulgence that chocolate lovers will appreciate.

How to Perfect Creme Brûlée Cookies

Creating the perfect creme brûlée cookies takes attention to detail. Follow these tips for an unbeatable treat!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh eggs and high-quality vanilla bean paste to enhance flavor.
• Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps them maintain their shape and prevents spreading.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the oven while baking. Overbaking can lead to dry cookies, so aim for a soft and chewy texture.
• Caramelize Sugar Carefully: Use a kitchen torch or broiler cautiously when caramelizing sugar on top. This step gives that signature creme brûlée finish.
• Store Properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to a week.

Best Side Dishes for Creme Brûlée Cookies

Creme brûlée cookies shine as a dessert but pair well with various side dishes that complement their flavor profile.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the richness of the cookies.
2. Chocolate Mousse: The creamy texture of chocolate mousse pairs nicely, enhancing the dessert experience.
3. Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream provides lightness that contrasts beautifully with the dense cookie.
4. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses offers a savory option that complements sweet flavors.
5. Coffee or Espresso: A cup of strong coffee brings out the vanilla notes while providing an energizing kick.
6. Nutty Granola: Serve alongside nutty granola for added crunch, which contrasts with the softness of the cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking creme brûlée cookies can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Ignoring room temperature ingredients: Using cold butter or eggs can lead to uneven mixing. Always allow these ingredients to come to room temperature for a smoother dough.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Overpacking flour can make cookies dry. Use the spoon-and-level method to ensure accurate measurements.
• Skipping chilling time: Chilling dough helps maintain shape during baking. Don’t skip this step; refrigerate your dough for at least 30 minutes.
• Using baking soda instead of baking powder: These two ingredients are not interchangeable. Make sure to use baking powder as specified, or your cookies may not rise properly.
• Caramelizing sugar too quickly: This can result in burnt sugar. Use a low flame and watch closely when bruleeing the topping for a perfect finish.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Creme Brûlée Cookies

• Place cookies in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw before serving.

Reheating Creme Brûlée Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 5-7 minutes for warm cookies.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time on a plate for about 10-15 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place a cookie in a non-stick pan over low heat for about 1 minute on each side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making creme brûlée cookies.

What makes creme brûlée cookies different from regular cookies?

Creme brûlée cookies combine the flavors of classic creme brûlée with soft, chewy cookie texture, offering a unique dessert experience.

Can I use vanilla extract instead of vanilla bean paste?

Yes, you can substitute vanilla extract, but vanilla bean paste gives a richer flavor and beautiful speckles in the cream.

How do I prevent my creme brûlée topping from burning?

Use medium heat when caramelizing sugar and keep the flame low. Rotate the cookie if necessary to ensure even caramelization.

Can I customize my creme brûlée cookies?

Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or even replace some of the vanilla with other flavors like almond or lemon for variety.

How long does it take to prepare creme brûlée cookies?

The total time is approximately 119 minutes, including prep and cooking time, plus chilling time if you choose.

Final Thoughts

Creme brûlée cookies are a delightful twist on a classic dessert. Their chewy texture combined with creamy filling makes them irresistible. Feel free to customize these cookies with your favorite flavors or toppings to create your own signature treat!