Creme Brûlée Cookies

These Creme Brûlée Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic dessert, combining chewy sugar cookies with rich vanilla pastry cream, all topped with a crispy layer of caramelized sugar. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies bring a touch of elegance to your dessert table while satisfying your sweet tooth. Easy to make and incredibly delicious, they are sure to impress friends and family alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of buttery cookies and creamy vanilla pastry cream creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist.
• Unique Presentation: The caramelized sugar topping not only adds crunch but also gives these cookies an eye-catching appearance.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for parties, holidays, or just a sweet treat at home, these cookies fit any occasion.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up a batch without any fuss.
• Chewy Texture: These cookies offer a delightful chewiness that contrasts beautifully with the crisp brulee topping.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheets: Ensure even baking and prevent sticking when lined with parchment paper.
• Whisk: Ideal for blending ingredients smoothly, especially when making the pastry cream.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for folding ingredients together without deflating mixtures.

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
• 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

Start by making the pastry cream which will be the filling for your cookies.
1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine whole milk and half of the granulated sugar. Stir until it begins to simmer.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks, remaining sugar, salt, cornstarch, and vanilla bean paste until smooth.
3. Gradually add some of the hot milk mixture into the egg mixture to temper it. Then pour this mixture back into the saucepan.
4. Cook over medium heat while constantly stirring until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted. Let cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

Next, prepare your cookie dough.
1. In a mixing bowl, beat together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add in egg and vanilla bean paste; mix until well combined.
3. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet mixture until just combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Cookies

Now it’s time to put everything together!
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Scoop out cookie dough portions and flatten them slightly in your palm.
3. Place about one tablespoon of cooled pastry cream in the center of each flattened dough piece.
4. Fold the edges over to encase the cream completely and roll into a ball.

Step 4: Bake & Caramelize

Finish off by baking and adding that delicious brulee topping!
1. Roll each ball in granulated sugar before placing them on prepared baking sheets lined with parchment paper.
2. Bake for about 9 minutes or until lightly golden around edges but still soft in center.
3. Once cooled slightly, sprinkle additional sugar on top of each cookie and use a kitchen torch to caramelize until golden brown.

Enjoy your homemade Creme Brûlée Cookies, perfect for sharing or savoring on your own!

How to Serve Creme Brûlée Cookies

Creme brûlée cookies are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, these cookies are versatile enough to suit any occasion.

With a Fresh Cup of Coffee

• Pairing these cookies with a hot cup of coffee enhances their buttery flavor and creates a perfect balance.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies alongside other sweets like fruit tarts and chocolate truffles for an appealing dessert spread.

With Ice Cream

• Serve warm creme brûlée cookies with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.

Gift Them

• Package them in decorative boxes as gifts for friends and loved ones, adding a personal touch to your culinary gifts.

How to Perfect Creme Brûlée Cookies

Perfecting creme brûlée cookies ensures they are consistently delicious. Here are some helpful tips to achieve the best results.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh eggs and high-quality butter significantly enhance the flavor and texture of your cookies.
• Chill the dough: Allowing the cookie dough to chill before baking helps maintain their shape and create a chewy texture.
• Measure accurately: Use proper measuring techniques for flour and sugar to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time.
• Bake in batches: Bake smaller batches instead of overcrowding the oven to allow even heat distribution, ensuring consistent baking results.
• Cool completely before topping: Let your cookies cool down fully before adding the caramelized sugar topping for better texture contrast.

Best Side Dishes for Creme Brûlée Cookies

Complementing creme brûlée cookies with side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options to consider.

1. Fresh Berries
   A mix of strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries adds freshness and tartness that balances the sweetness of the cookies.

2. Whipped Cream
   Lightly sweetened whipped cream provides a creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the chewy cookies.

3. Chocolate Sauce
   Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the cookies for a rich flavor combination that chocolate lovers will adore.

4. Fruit Salad
   A colorful fruit salad offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the creme brûlée cookies.

5. Coffee Mousse
   This light and airy dessert complements the flavors of your cookies while offering a delightful textural difference.

6. Caramel Sauce
   A thick caramel sauce can be drizzled on top or served on the side for those who love an extra sweet kick.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creme Brûlée Cookies, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes and tips to avoid them.

• Boldly skip the chilling step: Chilling the dough helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking. Don’t rush this step; allow at least 30 minutes in the fridge.
• Boldly ignore measuring techniques: Accurate measurements are crucial for perfect cookies. Use a kitchen scale for ingredients like flour and sugar, or spoon and level for best results.
• Boldly overbake your cookies: Baking times can vary by oven. Keep an eye on your cookies and remove them when they are just set and slightly golden at the edges.
• Boldly forget the caramelized sugar topping: The signature of these cookies is the caramelized sugar. After baking, sprinkle granulated sugar on top and use a torch or broiler to achieve that classic brûlée finish.
• Boldly skip using quality ingredients: The flavor of your cookies depends on high-quality butter and vanilla. Invest in good ingredients for the best taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store uneaten Creme Brûlée Cookies in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creme Brûlée Cookies

• For longer storage, freeze baked cookies in a single layer.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag with parchment paper between layers. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creme Brûlée Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for about 2-3 minutes until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these Creme Brûlée Cookies special?

These cookies combine the chewy texture of traditional sugar cookies with rich pastry cream flavor, topped with caramelized sugar for a delightful crunch.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup. Ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

How do I customize my Creme Brûlée Cookies?

Feel free to add chocolate chips or nuts into the dough. You can also experiment with different extracts, like almond or lemon, to create unique flavors.

Are Creme Brûlée Cookies suitable for events?

Absolutely! Their elegant look and delicious taste make them perfect for parties, holidays, or any special occasion where you want to impress guests.

How long does it take to prepare these cookies?

The total time is approximately 119 minutes, which includes preparation and baking time. Plan ahead so you have enough time to chill the dough!

Final Thoughts

These Creme Brûlée Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. They offer a unique twist on classic flavors that everyone will love. Feel free to customize with your favorite mix-ins or toppings—these cookies are sure to become a go-to treat!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Creme Brûlée Cookies

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 39 minutes
• Yield: 24 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful experience of homemade Creme Brûlée Cookies, a creative twist on the classic dessert that fuses chewy sugar cookies with velvety vanilla pastry cream. Each cookie is crowned with a crispy layer of caramelized sugar, offering an irresistible combination of textures and flavors. Perfect for any occasion, these elegant treats are sure to impress your guests or satisfy your sweet cravings. With straightforward preparation steps and readily available ingredients, you can whip up these gourmet cookies without hassle.

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Ingredients

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• 2 1/4 cups whole milk
• 6 egg yolks
• 1 cup + 2 tbsp granulated white sugar
• 1/8 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 tbsp vanilla bean paste
• 3 1/2 tbsp cornstarch
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, cut in cubes
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 1/4 cup granulated white sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 egg
• 1 tbsp vanilla bean paste
• 1/2 cup granulated white sugar (for rolling the dough in)
• 1/2 cup granulated white sugar (for the brulee topping)

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Instructions

1. Make the pastry cream: Heat whole milk and half the sugar until simmering. Whisk together egg yolks, remaining sugar, salt, cornstarch, and vanilla in a bowl. Gradually add hot milk to temper eggs, then return to saucepan and cook until thickened. Stir in butter and cool completely.
2. Prepare cookie dough: Beat softened butter with granulated sugar until fluffy. Add egg and vanilla; mix well. In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt; combine into wet mixture until just blended.
3. Assemble cookies: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop and flatten cookie dough, place pastry cream in center, fold edges over to encase filling, and roll into balls.
4. Bake & caramelize: Roll each ball in granulated sugar before placing on parchment-lined baking sheets. Bake for 9 minutes until edges are golden but centers remain soft. After cooling slightly, sprinkle with additional sugar and use a kitchen torch to caramelize.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 9 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie (40g)
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 120mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 30mg