Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies

Super soft and chewy brown sugar cookies are a delightful treat that everyone can enjoy! These Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies offer a perfect balance of sweetness and texture, making them ideal for any occasion—from cozy family gatherings to festive celebrations. With no mixer required, this simple recipe allows you to create delicious cookies that are sure to impress friends and family alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: No mixer is needed, making this recipe quick and hassle-free.
• Chewy Texture: The combination of brown sugar and cornstarch gives these cookies their signature chewiness.
• Versatile Flavor: Enjoy them as they are, or add chocolate chips or nuts for an extra twist!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a party or a quiet evening at home, these cookies fit right in.
• Great Storage: They stay fresh at room temperature for up to a week, perfect for meal prep or snacks.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies, gather the essential tools that will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without spilling.
• Baking sheets: Ensure even baking and easy cookie transfer from oven to cooling rack.
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats: Prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients

Super soft and chewy brown sugar cookies – no mixer required!

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (use 1 teaspoon if you love cinnamon)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

• 3/4 cup (12 Tbsp; 170g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
• 1 and 1/4 cups (250g) packed light or dark brown sugar
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

For Rolling

• 1/3 cup (67g) granulated sugar

How to Make Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Dry Ingredients

Toss together the flour, baking soda, cornstarch, cinnamon, and salt in a large bowl. Set aside.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a medium-size bowl:
1. Whisk the melted butter and brown sugar together until there are no lumps.
2. Add the egg and whisk until combined.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients:
– Mix together using a large spoon or rubber spatula until just combined. The dough will be very soft yet thick.
– Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill for at least 2 hours or up to 3 days.

Step 4: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

Step 5: Shape Cookies

Pour granulated sugar into a bowl:
1. Take about 2 scant tablespoons of dough.
2. Roll it into a ball, then roll in the sugar.
3. Place on prepared baking sheets about 3 inches apart.

Step 6: Bake Cookies

Bake cookies for 8–9 minutes:
– Remove from oven and gently press down on each cookie’s top with a utensil for a crinkly appearance.
– Return to oven for an additional 2–4 minutes. Total bake time should be between 10–13 minutes; they should be puffy but still soft in the center.

Step 7: Cool Cookies

Remove cookies from the oven:
– Let cool on the baking sheet for ten minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. They will continue cooking slightly while cooling.

Enjoy your delicious Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies, which will stay fresh covered at room temperature for one week!

How to Serve Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies

Chewy brown sugar cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging on your own, these cookies can be served in several creative manners.

With a Glass of Milk

• A classic pairing that never goes out of style; the creamy texture of milk perfectly complements the chewy sweetness of the cookies.

As Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Sandwich a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two chewy brown sugar cookies for a delicious dessert that’s sure to impress.

Dipped in Chocolate

• Melt some chocolate and dip half of each cookie for an elegant touch. Let the chocolate set before serving for added flair.

Crumbled over Yogurt

• For a unique twist, crumble the cookies over yogurt with fresh fruit. This adds both crunch and sweetness to your breakfast or snack.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange your chewy brown sugar cookies on a platter alongside other treats like brownies or fruit tarts for a visually appealing dessert table.

How to Perfect Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies

To ensure your chewy brown sugar cookies turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill is crucial. It helps develop flavors and prevents spreading during baking.

• Don’t Overbake: Remove the cookies from the oven when they still look soft in the center. They will continue to firm up as they cool.

• Use Proper Measuring: Spoon and level your flour instead of scooping directly from the bag to avoid dense cookies.

• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust cinnamon levels or add nutmeg for extra flavor variations that can enhance your cookie experience.

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your egg is at room temperature. This helps create a better texture in your finished cookie.

Best Side Dishes for Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies

Pairing side dishes with chewy brown sugar cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.

2. Creamy Cheesecake
   The rich texture complements the chewiness while offering a different flavor profile, perfect for dessert lovers.

3. Chocolate Fondue
   Serve with fresh strawberries or banana slices for dipping alongside your chewy brown sugar cookies, creating an interactive dessert experience.

4. Whipped Cream Toppings
   A dollop of freshly whipped cream can enhance each bite, adding a light and airy contrast to the dense cookie texture.

5. Coffee or Tea
   A warm beverage pairs beautifully with these cookies, providing warmth and another layer of flavor enjoyment.

6. Ice Cream Sundae Bar
   Set up an ice cream sundae bar where guests can customize their sundaes using chewy brown sugar cookies as toppings or bases.

7. Nut Mixes
   Offer a variety of nut mixes for crunch and saltiness that contrasts well with sweet cookies, enhancing overall snacking enjoyment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies, it’s easy to make a few missteps that can alter the final product. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Not chilling the dough: Skipping the chilling step can lead to cookies that spread too much while baking. Always chill your cookie dough for at least 2 hours.

• Using cold ingredients: If you use cold butter or eggs, it can affect how well the ingredients combine. Make sure your butter is melted and slightly cooled, and your egg is at room temperature.

• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can develop gluten, making cookies tough rather than chewy. Mix just until combined for the best texture.

• Incorrect oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can result in undercooked or overbaked cookies. Always preheat your oven and consider using an oven thermometer for accuracy.

• Not measuring flour correctly: Using too much flour can lead to dry cookies. Spoon and level your flour instead of scooping directly from the bag.

• Skipping the sugar coating: Rolling your cookie dough balls in granulated sugar before baking adds a delightful texture. Don’t skip this step for that extra crunch!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to one week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies

• Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to three months; separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Reheating Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 300°F (150°C) and bake for about 5 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie on a microwave-safe dish for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place a cookie in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies, check out these frequently asked questions:

Can I use different sugars?

You can experiment with various sugars! While brown sugar gives these cookies their signature flavor, mixing in some granulated sugar or even coconut sugar can offer unique results.

What makes these cookies chewy?

The combination of cornstarch and proper chilling helps create that soft and chewy texture we all love in Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies.

Can I add chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips or nuts is a great way to customize your cookies while still keeping them chewy.

How do I ensure my cookies are perfectly baked?

Watch for slight golden edges while keeping the center soft. They will continue cooking after being removed from the oven!

Final Thoughts

These Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit any occasion. Whether enjoyed plain or customized with add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips, they promise a delightful treat. Give this recipe a try and discover your new favorite cookie!