These Creme Brûlée Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic dessert. They combine the rich, creamy flavors of traditional crème brûlée with the comforting texture of chewy cookies. Perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to fancy dinner parties, these cookies will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. The unique combination of buttery cookie and caramelized sugar makes them stand out, ensuring they become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Flavor: The creamy vanilla pastry cream filling brings an unforgettable taste that elevates these cookies.
- Chewy Texture: These cookies have a soft and chewy texture that melts in your mouth, making each bite a delight.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for holidays, celebrations, or just a sweet treat at home, these cookies fit any occasion.
- Impressive Presentation: The caramelized sugar topping adds a beautiful finish, making these cookies look as good as they taste.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create these gourmet cookies with confidence.
Tools and Preparation
To make the best Creme Brûlée Cookies, having the right tools is essential. Gather the following kitchen equipment before you start baking.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Kitchen torch (for caramelizing sugar)
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Having various sizes helps keep ingredients organized during preparation.
- Kitchen torch: This tool is crucial for achieving that perfect caramelized top, giving your cookies their signature finish.
- Parchment paper: Using parchment ensures easy cookie removal and prevents sticking on baking sheets.
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 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 Pastry Cream
Begin by cooking your pastry cream so it has time to cool.
1. In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together whole milk and half of the granulated sugar until it simmers.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks with remaining sugar until smooth.
3. Gradually add cornstarch and salt to the egg mixture while mixing continuously.
4. Slowly pour hot milk into the egg mixture to temper it.
5. Return this mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat until thickened.
6. Remove from heat; stir in vanilla bean paste and butter until smooth.
7. Cover with plastic wrap directly on top of the cream and let cool in the fridge.
Step 2: Make Cookie Dough
Once your pastry cream has cooled:
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.
3. Beat in egg and vanilla bean paste until well combined.
4. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt; gradually mix into wet ingredients until just combined.
Step 3: Assemble Cookies
Next:
1. Take chilled pastry cream from fridge; scoop small amounts into cookie dough balls.
2. Roll each ball in granulated sugar for coating.
3. Place on prepared baking sheets lined with parchment paper.
Step 4: Bake & Brûlée Topping
Finally:
1. Bake for about 9 minutes or until edges are golden but centers remain soft.
2. Once out of the oven, sprinkle additional granulated sugar on top of warm cookies.
3. Use a kitchen torch to carefully caramelize the sugar until golden brown.
Let them cool slightly before serving! Enjoy your delicious homemade Creme Brûlée Cookies!
How to Serve Creme Brûlée Cookies
Creme brûlée cookies are not just a treat; they are a delightful experience. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet night at home, these cookies can be presented in various ways to enhance their appeal.
With Fresh Berries
- Serve your cookies alongside fresh raspberries or strawberries for a burst of color and flavor. The tartness of the berries complements the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.
A Scoop of Ice Cream
- Pair these cookies with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream. The cold, creamy texture will contrast perfectly with the warm, chewy cookie.
Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce
- Add a drizzle of rich chocolate sauce over each cookie. This extra layer of indulgence makes them even more irresistible.
Coffee or Tea Pairing
- Enjoy your creme brûlée cookies with a cup of coffee or tea. The warmth of the beverage enhances the flavors of the cookies and makes for a cozy treat.
How to Perfect Creme Brûlée Cookies
To ensure your creme brûlée cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips. Each step contributes to that rich, creamy flavor and delightful texture.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh eggs and high-quality vanilla bean paste for the best flavor.
- Chill the Dough: Refrigerate your cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps achieve a chewy texture.
- Even Baking: Make sure to space your cookies evenly on the baking sheet. This allows for even cooking and prevents spreading.
- Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. They should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center.
- Caramelize Sugar Just Before Serving: For that signature brulee topping, caramelize sugar on top of the cookies right before serving for an added crunch.
- Store Properly: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their chewy texture.
Best Side Dishes for Creme Brûlée Cookies
These creme brûlée cookies shine when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some delicious options to consider:
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds freshness and balances out the richness of the cookies.
- Chocolate Mousse: A small serving of chocolate mousse provides a luxurious touch that pairs well with the cookie’s flavors.
- Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites offer creamy goodness that echoes the pastry cream in the cookies.
- Panna Cotta: This silky dessert can elevate your dessert table while matching well with the cookie’s texture.
- Caramel Sauce: Serve some warm caramel sauce for dipping; it enhances both presentation and taste.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds lightness and pairs beautifully with every bite of these decadent cookies.
- Nutty Granola: For a crunchy contrast, serve some nutty granola on the side; it’s great for adding texture and flavor complexity.
- Espresso Shots: Offer espresso shots as a side drink; their bold flavor perfectly complements the sweetness of creme brûlée cookies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
It’s easy to make errors when baking these delicious creme brûlée cookies. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision. This ensures your cookies have the right texture.
- Skipping the chill time: Allowing the dough to chill helps the cookies maintain their shape. Don’t rush this step if you want perfect cookies.
- Overbaking the cookies: Keep an eye on the baking time. Cookies should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center.
- Using low-quality vanilla: The flavor of vanilla is crucial in creme brûlée cookies. Invest in good quality vanilla bean paste for the best taste.
- Not allowing cookies to cool before topping: Let your cookies cool completely before adding caramelized sugar. This prevents melting and keeps the topping crunchy.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing Creme Brûlée Cookies
- Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls for up to 3 months.
- Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag.
Reheating Creme Brûlée Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes until soft.
- Microwave: Heat each cookie for 10-15 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat. Cover with a lid and warm for a few minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making creme brûlée cookies.
Can I use different flavors in my Creme Brûlée Cookies?
Absolutely! You can experiment with flavors like chocolate, almond, or citrus zest by adjusting the vanilla bean paste.
What type of sugar is best for caramelizing?
Granulated white sugar works best for creating that perfect brulee topping, giving it a delightful crunch.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure other ingredients are also gluten-free.
How do I achieve a perfect brulee topping on my Creme Brûlée Cookies?
Sprinkle an even layer of sugar on top and use a kitchen torch carefully to caramelize it evenly.
Why did my cookies spread too much while baking?
This can happen if your butter is too warm or if you skipped chilling the dough. Always chill your dough before baking.
Final Thoughts
Creme brûlée cookies are a delightful twist on a classic dessert, combining chewy cookie goodness with rich pastry cream flavor. They are versatile and can be customized with different flavors or toppings to suit your preferences. Try making these irresistible treats today!
Creme Brûlée Cookies
Creme Brûlée Cookies are a delicious fusion of the beloved classic dessert and soft, chewy cookies. These treats feature a creamy vanilla pastry cream center encased in buttery cookies, topped with a delightful layer of caramelized sugar. Perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to elegant dinner parties, these cookies are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet cravings. The combination of rich flavors and a beautiful presentation makes them a standout addition to your dessert repertoire. With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create these gourmet delights effortlessly.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 9 minutes
- Total Time: 39 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups whole milk
- 6 egg yolks
- 1 cup + 2 tbsp granulated sugar (plus extra for coating and topping)
- 1 1/2 tbsp vanilla bean paste
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 egg
Instructions
- Prepare the pastry cream: Heat milk and half the sugar until simmering. In another bowl, whisk egg yolks with remaining sugar, then mix in cornstarch and salt. Gradually add hot milk to the egg mixture, return to heat until thickened, then stir in vanilla and butter. Cool.
- Make cookie dough: Cream butter and sugar; add egg and vanilla. Combine flour with baking powder and salt, then mix into wet ingredients.
- Assemble cookies: Scoop cooled pastry cream into cookie dough balls, roll in sugar, and place on a baking sheet.
- Bake: Cook at 350°F for about 9 minutes or until edges are golden but centers remain soft.
- Caramelize: Sprinkle additional sugar on warm cookies and use a kitchen torch to caramelize the topping.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (approximately 50g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
