Creme Brûlée Cookies

These Creme Brûlée Cookies are a delightful treat that brings together the best of chewy cookies and creamy dessert flavors. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies feature rich vanilla pastry cream topped with a crunchy caramelized sugar layer. They’re an unforgettable indulgence that will impress family and friends at gatherings or simply satisfy your sweet tooth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: Enjoy the rich, buttery taste combined with the sweet notes of vanilla.
• Chewy Texture: These cookies deliver a perfect balance of softness and chewiness, making each bite satisfying.
• Versatile Treat: Ideal for parties, holidays, or just a cozy night in. They fit every occasion!
• Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps, they’re easy to whip up even for novice bakers.
• Impressive Presentation: The caramelized sugar topping gives a beautiful finish that looks as good as it tastes.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delicious cookies, you’ll need some essential tools that will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: These are crucial for combining ingredients efficiently and neatly.
• Baking sheets: Ensures even baking of your cookies while providing a sturdy surface.
• Cookie scoop: Helps to portion dough evenly, ensuring uniform cookie sizes for consistent baking.

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

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk and half of the granulated sugar. Stir occasionally until it comes to a simmer.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks, cornstarch, salt, and remaining sugar until smooth.
3. Gradually pour in hot milk mixture into the egg mixture while whisking continuously to temper the eggs.
4. Return this mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat until thickened. Stir in butter and vanilla bean paste until smooth.
5. Transfer pastry cream to a bowl and cover with plastic wrap directly on its surface. Refrigerate until cool.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat together softened butter and granulated sugar until fluffy.
3. Add egg and vanilla bean paste; mix until well combined.
4. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix just until combined.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake Cookies

1. Scoop out cookie dough onto prepared baking sheets lined with parchment paper.
2. Press your thumb into each cookie to create an indentation for filling later.
3. Bake for about 9 minutes or until edges are lightly golden but centers remain soft.
4. Remove from oven and let cool on baking sheets before transferring to a cooling rack.

Step 4: Fill Cookies with Pastry Cream

Once cooled completely:
1. Pipe or spoon chilled pastry cream into each cookie’s indentation generously.

Step 5: Create Caramelized Sugar Topping

1. Sprinkle granulated sugar over each filled cookie’s pastry cream.
2. Using a kitchen torch or broiler method, carefully caramelize the top until golden brown.

Enjoy your delicious Creme Brûlée Cookies, perfect for sharing or savoring solo!

How to Serve Creme Brûlée Cookies

Creme brûlée cookies are not only delightful on their own but can also be paired with various accompaniments to enhance their flavor. Here are some fun serving suggestions that will elevate your dessert experience.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve these cookies alongside a mix of fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a refreshing contrast to the rich vanilla flavor.

With Whipped Cream

• A dollop of light whipped cream adds a creamy texture that complements the chewy cookies perfectly. Consider adding a hint of vanilla for extra flavor.

With Ice Cream

• Pair these cookies with a scoop of your favorite ice cream, such as vanilla or caramel, for an indulgent dessert that combines textures and flavors beautifully.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a platter with assorted desserts like macarons or chocolate truffles. This makes for an impressive display at any gathering.

With Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these cookies alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea. The warm beverage will balance the sweetness and enhance the overall tasting experience.

How to Perfect Creme Brûlée Cookies

To achieve the best creme brûlée cookies, careful attention to detail is key. Here are some simple tips to ensure your treats turn out perfectly every time.

• Use high-quality ingredients: Opt for fresh eggs and real vanilla bean paste to enhance the flavor profile of your cookies.
• Chill your dough: Allow the cookie dough to chill in the refrigerator before baking. This helps the cookies maintain their shape and promotes a chewy texture.
• Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on your baking time. Overbaking can lead to dry cookies, while underbaking ensures they stay soft and chewy.
• Caramelize sugar properly: When adding the sugar topping, make sure it’s evenly spread and caramelized until golden brown for that classic crème brûlée finish.

Best Side Dishes for Creme Brûlée Cookies

Creme brûlée cookies can be enjoyed with various side dishes that complement their rich flavor. Here are some excellent options to consider when planning your dessert spread.

1. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad provides a refreshing contrast, balancing out the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Chocolate Fondue: Offer a small bowl of melted chocolate for dipping. The combination of chocolate and cookie flavors is irresistible!
3. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses such as Brie or mascarpone for a rich pairing that enhances both flavors without overpowering them.
4. Panna Cotta: This smooth Italian dessert pairs wonderfully with creme brûlée cookies, creating a harmonious blend of textures.
5. Custard Cups: Serve mini custard cups alongside for an additional creamy element that echoes the flavors in the cookies.
6. Tea Cakes: Lightly flavored tea cakes provide another layer of sweetness while keeping the focus on the star attraction—the creme brûlée cookies!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Creme Brûlée Cookies can be fun, but there are common pitfalls that can ruin your baking experience. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Incorrect Measurements: Using too much or too little of an ingredient can affect the texture. Always measure ingredients precisely for consistent results.
• Skipping Chilling Time: Not chilling the dough can lead to cookies spreading too much while baking. Ensure you chill the dough as directed for the best shape and texture.
• Overmixing the Dough: Overmixing can make cookies tough instead of chewy. Mix just until combined for a softer cookie.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in an unpreheated oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to the correct temperature before baking.
• Using Old Ingredients: Expired ingredients like baking powder or vanilla can impact flavor and texture. Check expiration dates before you start baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creme Brûlée Cookies

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• After freezing, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creme Brûlée Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat cookies for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 10-15 seconds per cookie, watching closely.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat for about 1-2 minutes, turning gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Creme Brûlée Cookies:

Can I use other flavors besides vanilla?

Yes! You can experiment with different extracts like almond or lemon for unique flavors.

How do I achieve the caramelized sugar topping?

Sprinkle granulated sugar evenly on top of baked cookies and use a kitchen torch to caramelize it until golden brown.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.

What should I do if my dough is too soft?

If your dough is too sticky, refrigerate it for an extra 30 minutes before rolling into balls.

Final Thoughts

These Creme Brûlée Cookies offer a delightful blend of chewy texture and creamy flavor, making them perfect for any dessert table. Feel free to customize with your favorite extracts or toppings. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the sweet satisfaction it brings!