Creme Brûlée Cookies

These Creme Brûlée Cookies are the perfect twist on a classic dessert! Combining the rich flavors of vanilla pastry cream with a chewy, buttery cookie base, these treats are delightful for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a dinner party, or simply indulging in a sweet snack, these cookies will impress everyone. Their standout qualities include a soft texture and a crispy caramel top that will leave you craving more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of creamy vanilla and caramelized sugar creates a decadent taste that is hard to resist.
• Chewy Texture: These cookies have the perfect chewiness, making each bite satisfying and delightful.
• Versatile Treat: Great for parties, holiday gatherings, or just as an everyday indulgence.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, these cookies are approachable for bakers at any skill level.
• Impressive Presentation: The beautiful caramelized sugar topping makes them visually stunning and perfect for sharing.

Tools and Preparation

To make these delicious Creme Brûlée Cookies, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment can make your baking experience easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Rolling pin

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: A variety of sizes helps you mix ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk: Perfect for incorporating air into your batter, ensuring your cookies are light and fluffy.
• Baking sheets: Ensure even cooking; using multiple sheets allows you to bake several trays at once.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes clean-up easier.

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 Cookie Dough

• 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

For Rolling and Topping

• 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

Begin by heating the milk in a saucepan over medium heat until it’s warm but not boiling. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, granulated sugar, salt, vanilla bean paste, and cornstarch until smooth. Gradually add the warm milk to this mixture while constantly whisking. Pour it back into the saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until it thickens. Remove from heat and mix in cubed butter until melted. Let it cool before using.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until fluffy. Add in one egg and one tablespoon of vanilla bean paste; mix well until combined. In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients until just combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Cookies

Once your dough is ready, scoop tablespoons of it onto prepared baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Flatten each ball slightly with your hand or use a rolling pin for uniform thickness. Place one teaspoon of cooled vanilla pastry cream in the center of each cookie mound.

Step 4: Final Touches

Cover each filled cookie dough ball with another layer of dough if desired. Roll each cookie ball in granulated sugar before placing back on the baking sheet. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 9 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges.

Step 5: Caramelize Sugar Topping

Once baked and cooled slightly, sprinkle an additional layer of granulated sugar on top of each cookie. Using a kitchen torch or broiler briefly caramelize this topping until golden brown.

Enjoy your freshly made Creme Brûlée Cookies!

How to Serve Creme Brûlée Cookies

Creme brûlée cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a sweet snack, these cookies are versatile and sure to impress.

With Coffee or Tea

• Pairing your cookies with a warm cup of coffee or tea enhances the flavors and provides a comforting experience.

As Party Favors

• Package individual cookies in decorative bags to give as party favors. They make a charming and delicious gift for guests.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve your cookies alongside some fresh berries for a refreshing contrast. The tartness of the berries complements the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.

On a Dessert Platter

• Include these cookies on a dessert platter with other sweet treats. They stand out among brownies, tarts, and pastries.

With Ice Cream

• Top your cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. The warm cookie and cold ice cream create a delightful contrast.

How to Perfect Creme Brûlée Cookies

To make sure your creme brûlée cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these essential tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Always use fresh eggs and high-quality vanilla bean paste to enhance the flavor of your cookies.

• Chill the dough: Refrigerate the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent spreading and results in thicker, chewier cookies.

• Measure accurately: Use proper measuring techniques for flour and sugar. Spoon and level flour instead of scooping directly from the bag to avoid dense cookies.

• Don’t skip the salt: A small amount of salt balances sweetness. It enhances all flavors in the cookie, making it more enjoyable.

• Watch baking time: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking. They should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center when done.

Best Side Dishes for Creme Brûlée Cookies

Creme brûlée cookies pair well with various side dishes that complement their rich flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and natural sweetness, balancing the richness of the cookies.

2. Chocolate Mousse: This creamy dessert brings an elegant touch alongside your cookies, perfect for special occasions.

3. Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream can be served on the side for dipping, enhancing each bite of cookie.

4. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses pairs beautifully with the sweetness of creme brûlée cookies, adding savory notes to your spread.

5. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling homemade caramel sauce over your cookies creates an extra layer of flavor that is irresistible.

6. Nutty Granola: Serve crunchy granola as a topping option for those who enjoy added texture along with their desserts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creme Brûlée Cookies, avoiding common pitfalls can make a significant difference in the final result.

• Bold ingredient measurements: Using incorrect measurements can ruin your cookies. Always double-check that you are using the right amounts of flour, sugar, and butter.
• Bold ignoring chilling time: Skipping the chilling period for the dough can lead to cookies that spread too much while baking. Be patient and refrigerate the dough as instructed.
• Bold overmixing the dough: Mixing too vigorously can create tough cookies. Mix until just combined for a tender texture.
• Bold using low-quality vanilla: Cheap vanilla can affect flavor. Opt for high-quality vanilla bean paste for an authentic taste in your cookies.
• Bold rushing the caramelizing process: If you rush the bruleeing step, you might burn the sugar or not achieve a proper crust. Take your time to achieve that perfect golden topping.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
• They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creme Brûlée Cookies

• Place cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creme Brûlée Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Heat cookies for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds on medium power.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, cover, and warm for about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Creme Brûlée Cookies:

How do I achieve the perfect caramelized top?

To get that ideal caramelized layer, sprinkle sugar evenly on top of cooled cookies, then use a kitchen torch or broiler to melt and brown it carefully.

Can I use different flavors in my Creme Brûlée Cookies?

Absolutely! You can experiment with flavors like chocolate, almond, or citrus zest. Just replace some vanilla paste with your desired flavoring.

How long does it take to make Creme Brûlée Cookies?

The total time is approximately 119 minutes, including prep and bake time.

Are these cookies suitable for parties?

Yes! These cookies are crowd-pleasers and perfect for gatherings with their unique texture and flavor combination.

Final Thoughts

Creme Brûlée Cookies offer a delightful twist on classic dessert flavors. Their chewy texture combined with rich pastry cream makes them irresistible. Feel free to customize them with different flavors or toppings to suit your taste buds!