If you’re a fan of crème brûlée, the classic French dessert known for its rich custard base and crispy caramelized sugar top, then these Crème Brûlée Cookies will be your new favorite treat! These cookies capture the essence of crème brûlée—vanilla custard, a hint of caramel, and a delicate crispy sugar topping—all in a bite-sized, melt-in-your-mouth form.
These cookies are a perfect balance of sweet and rich, with a soft and chewy texture on the inside, and a delightful crunch from the caramelized sugar on top. They’re great for special occasions, holiday baking, or when you simply want to indulge in a fancy treat without the need for a blowtorch!
Ingredients:
For the cookie dough:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (preferably pure)
- 2 teaspoons heavy cream (or milk)
For the crème brûlée topping:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for topping)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent the cookies from sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the dough
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes using an electric mixer.
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and heavy cream to the butter mixture, and beat until combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense cookies.
Step 3: Shape the cookies
- Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. If you want a more uniform shape, you can gently roll the dough into balls with your hands.
- Slightly flatten each dough ball with the back of a spoon or your fingers to form a small disc. This will help the cookies bake evenly.
Step 4: Add the crème brûlée topping
- In a small bowl, mix the 1/4 cup of granulated sugar with the optional vanilla extract. This step gives the sugar a subtle vanilla flavor, but you can skip it if you prefer just plain caramelized sugar.
- Sprinkle a generous teaspoon of the sugar mixture on top of each cookie. This sugar will create the “crème brûlée” style caramelized topping.
Step 5: Bake the cookies
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers are slightly soft. The sugar on top will start to melt and become golden, but it won’t fully caramelize like it would with a torch.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Serve and enjoy
- Once the cookies are completely cool, you can enjoy them as is, or if you prefer a more caramelized topping, you can use a kitchen torch to gently melt and brown the sugar on top. (This step is optional but adds an authentic crème brûlée flair.)
- Serve the cookies with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful treat!
Chef’s Tip:
For a deeper, more authentic crème brûlée flavor, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough. You can also experiment with infusing the sugar with a little orange zest or bourbon for a more complex flavor profile.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a sugar substitute for the topping?
Yes, you can use a sugar substitute like Stevia or Monk Fruit Sweetener for the topping, but keep in mind that it may not caramelize as well as granulated sugar does. If you’re looking for that signature crispy, caramelized top, it’s best to stick with regular sugar.
2. How do I store Crème Brûlée Cookies?
These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Simply thaw them at room temperature before serving.
3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, allow the dough to come to room temperature before scooping and baking.
4. Can I add chocolate chips or other mix-ins?
Absolutely! If you love chocolate, you can add a handful of semi-sweet chocolate chips or chunks to the dough for a chocolate-crème brûlée twist. Just be sure not to add too many mix-ins, as they can interfere with the sugar topping’s ability to melt and caramelize.
Why You’ll Love These Crème Brûlée Cookies:
These Crème Brûlée Cookies offer all the indulgent flavors of the classic French dessert, but in the form of a soft, chewy, and easy-to-make cookie. With a rich vanilla flavor and a light crispy topping, they’re perfect for any occasion where you want to treat yourself or impress guests with something unique. The added bonus? No need for a kitchen torch (though it’s fun if you have one)! Enjoy these sweet bites of heaven for a dessert that’s both sophisticated and simple.