Perfect Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies

Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat, perfect for those who love soft, chewy cookies with a rich flavor. This recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require a mixer, making it accessible for everyone.

Why Make This Recipe

These cookies are super soft and chewy, with a wonderful depth of flavor from the brown sugar. The touch of cinnamon adds a warm, comforting aroma and taste. They’re perfect for any occasion, from casual snacks to festive gatherings.

How to Make Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies

Ingredients

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 1/2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (use 1 teaspoon if you love cinnamon)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup (12 Tbsp; 170g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
• 1 1/4 cups (250g) packed light or dark brown sugar
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup (67g) granulated sugar, for rolling

Directions

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, toss together the flour, baking soda, cornstarch, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk the melted butter and brown sugar until no lumps remain. Whisk in the egg and then the vanilla.
3. Combine Ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix together with a large spoon or rubber spatula. The dough will be very soft and thick.
4. Chill Dough: Cover the dough and chill for at least 2 hours, or up to 3 days. Chilling is mandatory.
5. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. Set aside.
6. Form Cookies: Pour the granulated sugar into a bowl. Take 2 scant tablespoons of dough and roll into a ball, then roll in the sugar. Place 3 inches apart on the baking sheets.
7. Bake Cookies: Bake for 8-9 minutes. Remove from the oven and gently press the top of the cookie down with the back of a utensil to create a crinkly top. Return to the oven for 2-4 more minutes, for a total bake time of 10-13 minutes. The cookies will be puffy and still soft in the middle.
8. Cool Cookies: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. They will continue to cook in the center as they cool on the baking sheet.

How to Serve Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies

These cookies are best served at room temperature or slightly warm. Pair them with a glass of milk, coffee, or tea for a perfect snack or dessert.

How to Store Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw at room temperature before serving.

Tips to Make Perfect Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies

• Chilling: Chilling the dough is crucial for preventing the cookies from spreading too much and for enhancing the flavor.
• Measuring Flour: Spoon and level the flour to avoid adding too much, which can make the cookies dense.
• Baking Time: Do not overbake. The cookies will look soft and slightly underbaked when you take them out but will firm up as they cool.

Variation

• Add-ins: Mix in chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit for different flavors and textures.
• Spices: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or allspice for a unique twist.

FAQs

Q: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter? A: Yes, but reduce the added salt to a pinch.

Q: Can I skip the cornstarch? A: Cornstarch helps to make the cookies tender and chewy, but you can omit it if you don’t have any. The texture may be slightly different.

Q: Can I freeze the dough? A: Yes, you can freeze the dough balls and bake them directly from the freezer, adding a couple of minutes to the baking time.