Introduction
Welcome to the delightful world of cookie magic! Today, we’re transforming the classic crème brûlée into a cookie that will make your taste buds do a little happy dance. These Crème Brûlée Cookies are soft, rich, and topped with a beautifully caramelized sugar crust, reminiscent of the beloved dessert. Every bite bursts with flavor and sweetness, making them perfect for an afternoon treat or a special dessert to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar for topping
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 32 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, filling your kitchen with a sweet aroma.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each one is well incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract, letting that rich scent waft through the air.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients, mixing until just combined — be careful not to over-mix!
- Fold in the heavy cream, stirring gently until the dough is smooth and silky. If you’re feeling fancy, add in the vanilla bean paste for an extra pop of flavor and those lovely little specks.
- Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart for even baking.
- Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and the centers are set. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet.
- After a brief cooling period, sprinkle a thin layer of granulated sugar over each cookie. Using a kitchen torch, carefully caramelize the sugar until it achieves a beautiful golden and bubbly finish. Allow the cookies to cool slightly before serving, ensuring the sugar hardens for that perfect crunch.
Notes or Tips
For an extra burst of flavor, feel free to add a pinch of sea salt on top of the caramelized sugar for a delightful sweet-and-salty balance. These cookies store well in an airtight container; however, the caramelized sugar is best enjoyed fresh!
Cooking Techniques
Using a kitchen torch can be a bit intimidating at first, but it’s truly the key to achieving that signature crème brûlée texture. If you don’t have a torch, you can place the cookies under a broiler for a few minutes, but watch them closely to avoid burning.
FAQ
Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked dough or the baked cookies (without the caramelized sugar topping). Just make sure to wrap them well before freezing. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw and torch the sugar to finish.
Can I use a different flavor extract?
Yes! While vanilla is traditional, you can experiment with almond or hazelnut extract for a fun twist on these cookies.
Conclusion
These Crème Brûlée Cookies are truly a delightful treat that combines the best of two worlds: cookies and the exquisite crème brûlée. With their rich flavors and delicate caramelized topping, they are bound to become a favorite in your household. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and enjoy making these little morsels of joy!