Creme Brûlée Cookies

These Creme Brûlée Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the best of two classic desserts into one amazing cookie. With their chewy texture and rich vanilla flavor, they provide a unique twist perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just enjoying a quiet night at home, these cookies are sure to impress with their creamy filling and caramelized sugar topping.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of buttery cookies and creamy vanilla pastry cream creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Chewy Texture: These cookies have the perfect chewy consistency, making each bite satisfying and enjoyable.
• Versatile Treat: Ideal for parties, family gatherings, or simply as a sweet snack, they fit any occasion perfectly.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and allows bakers of all skill levels to create something special.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to experiment with different flavors or toppings for a personalized touch.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking these Creme Brûlée Cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and make your baking experience enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly without splatter.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth texture for your pastry cream by effectively blending egg yolks and sugar.
• Baking sheets: Provides a sturdy surface to bake your cookies evenly.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking, ensuring easy removal of cookies once baked.

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 Cookies

• 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 Vanilla Pastry Cream

Start by making the pastry cream which will be used as filling for the cookies.
1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine whole milk and vanilla bean paste. Stir occasionally until warm but not boiling.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, salt, and cornstarch until smooth.
3. Gradually pour warm milk into the egg mixture while continuously whisking to prevent curdling.
4. Return this mixture to the saucepan over medium-low heat. Cook while stirring constantly until it thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
5. Remove from heat and stir in cubed butter until melted. Transfer to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent a skin from forming, and refrigerate until chilled.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

Now it’s time to prepare your cookie dough.
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add in an egg and vanilla bean paste; mix well until combined.
4. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Assemble the Cookies

Combine both elements for those delicious treats!
1. Use a large cookie scoop to portion out cookie dough onto parchment-lined baking sheets.
2. Make an indent in each cookie using your thumb or back of a spoon; fill with chilled pastry cream.
3. Roll remaining dough portions into balls before placing on top of filled cookies; seal edges gently.

Step 4: Bake

Finish up by baking your assembled cookies!
1. Bake in preheated oven for about 9 minutes or until edges are lightly golden brown but centers remain soft.
2. Allow cooling on sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks.

Step 5: Caramelize Topping

Complete your masterpiece with that signature brûlée touch!
1. Once cooled completely, sprinkle remaining granulated sugar evenly over each cookie.
2. Using a kitchen torch or broiler set on low, carefully caramelize the sugar until golden brown—watch closely!

Enjoy every bite of these irresistible Creme Brûlée Cookies!

How to Serve Creme Brûlée Cookies

Creme brûlée cookies are delightful on their own, but serving them with the right accompaniments can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some creative ways to enjoy these delicious cookies.

Pair with Fresh Fruits

• Berries: Serve with a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a refreshing contrast.
• Sliced Bananas: The creaminess of bananas complements the buttery flavor of the cookies.

Enjoy with Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that enhances the vanilla notes in the cookies.
• Caramel Swirl Ice Cream: Adds an extra layer of sweetness and richness.

Create a Dessert Platter

• Cheese Selection: Soft cheeses like Brie or goat cheese can balance the sweetness.
• Chocolate Dipped Fruits: Strawberries or apple slices dipped in chocolate add a fun twist.

How to Perfect Creme Brûlée Cookies

Achieving the perfect creme brûlée cookies is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out wonderfully every time.

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerate your dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent spreading and gives you thicker cookies.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh eggs and high-quality vanilla bean paste for the best flavor profile.
• Don’t Skip the Toppings: Caramelizing sugar on top adds that signature crunchy layer. Use a kitchen torch for best results.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. They should be lightly golden around the edges but soft in the center.
• Let Cool Completely: Allow your cookies to cool fully before adding toppings to ensure they hold up well.

Best Side Dishes for Creme Brûlée Cookies

Complementing your creme brûlée cookies with side dishes can enhance their flavors. Here’s a list of great options that pair well.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances sweetness.
2. Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and honey for added texture and flavor contrast.
3. Chilled Lemonade: A refreshing drink that cuts through the richness of the cookies.
4. Nutty Granola Bars: Provides a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with soft cookies.
5. Dark Chocolate Squares: Rich and slightly bitter chocolate pairs beautifully with sweet flavors.
6. Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats echo similar textures while offering a different flavor profile.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creme Brûlée Cookies, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Using cold ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Skipping the chilling time: Chilling the dough helps in shaping and improves the cookie’s structure. Don’t skip this crucial step!
• Overbaking: Keep a close eye on the baking time. Overbaked cookies can become dry. Aim for a slightly golden edge.
• Not measuring accurately: Baking is a science. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups to ensure ingredient accuracy.
• Ignoring the brulee sugar topping: A proper caramelized sugar layer is key! Use granulated sugar and a kitchen torch for that signature crunch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Creme Brûlée Cookies

• Freeze unbaked dough by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Baked cookies can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Creme Brûlée Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place cookies on a baking sheet and warm for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet on low heat, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Creme Brûlée Cookies.

What makes these Creme Brûlée Cookies special?

These cookies combine chewy, buttery textures with rich vanilla pastry cream and a crispy caramelized topping, mimicking traditional creme brûlée flavors.

Can I customize these Creme Brûlée Cookies?

Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or even different extracts like almond or lemon for unique variations.

How do I achieve the perfect caramelized topping?

Ensure you use granulated sugar and apply it evenly on top of the cooled cookies before using a kitchen torch or broiler to caramelize.

What should I do if my cookies spread too much?

Chill your dough longer before baking and avoid overmixing. This helps keep their shape during baking.

Final Thoughts

Creme Brûlée Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. Their chewy texture combined with creamy filling makes them irresistible. Feel free to experiment with different flavors or toppings to suit your taste!