Creme Brûlée Cookies

These Creme Brûlée Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic dessert, combining the rich flavors of creamy vanilla with a chewy cookie texture. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are sure to impress your guests at parties or make a special treat for family gatherings. The caramelized sugar topping adds an exciting crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft, buttery cookie base.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of buttery cookies and creamy vanilla pastry cream creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up these cookies without hassle.
• Versatile Treat: These cookies are perfect for holidays, birthday parties, or just a cozy night in.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Their unique taste and beautiful appearance make them a hit among friends and family.
• Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different toppings or fillings to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Cookie cutter (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly without spills.
• Whisk: Great for achieving a smooth pastry cream without lumps.
• Rubber spatula: Helps scrape every bit of delicious mixture from bowls, ensuring no waste.
• Baking sheets: Provides even heat distribution for perfectly baked cookies.

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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 whole milk with half of the sugar and salt. Stir until it begins to simmer.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks, remaining sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla bean paste until smooth.
3. Slowly pour the 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 it thickens. Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted. Let it cool.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

1. In a large bowl, beat together softened butter with granulated sugar until fluffy.
2. Add the egg and vanilla bean paste; mix well until combined.
3. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients until just combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Scoop dough onto prepared baking sheets lined with parchment paper.
3. Press down slightly on each cookie to flatten them before adding a dollop of cooled pastry cream on top.
4. Bake for about 9 minutes or until edges are golden.

Step 4: Caramelize Sugar Topping

1. Once cookies are cooled slightly after baking, sprinkle granulated sugar on top of each pastry cream dollop.
2. Using a kitchen torch or broiler setting in your oven, carefully caramelize the sugar until it bubbles and turns golden brown.

Enjoy your homemade Creme Brûlée Cookies, which combine delightful flavors with easy preparation!

How to Serve Creme Brûlée Cookies

Creme brûlée cookies are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for a special occasion or an everyday dessert, these cookies pair well with different accompaniments to enhance their rich flavor.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve your cookies with a side of fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries. The tartness of the berries beautifully balances the sweetness of the cookies.

A Scoop of Ice Cream

• Pair these cookies with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream. The cold creaminess complements the chewy texture and rich pastry cream topping.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• Add a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce over the cookies. This extra layer of sweetness creates a decadent treat that chocolate lovers will adore.

With Whipped Cream

• Top your cookies with a dollop of freshly whipped cream. This adds a light and airy element, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Served Warm

• Enjoy these cookies warm from the oven for an extra soft texture. The creamy filling feels luxurious when still slightly warm.

How to Perfect Creme Brûlée Cookies

To achieve the best creme brûlée cookies, consider these helpful tips that will elevate your baking game.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh eggs and high-quality vanilla bean paste. Fresh ingredients contribute significantly to flavor and texture.

• Chill the Dough: After mixing, chill your cookie dough for at least 30 minutes. This helps maintain their shape while baking and ensures a chewier texture.

• Measure Accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for flour. Accurate measuring is crucial to achieving the perfect cookie consistency.

• Don’t Overbake: Bake just until the edges are golden but the centers appear slightly underbaked. They will continue cooking after removal from the oven.

Best Side Dishes for Creme Brûlée Cookies

Creme brûlée cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance their flavor profile and create a well-rounded dessert experience.

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and contrasts nicely with the rich flavors of the cookies.

2. Cheese Platter: Include a variety of cheeses like brie or mascarpone. The creamy textures complement the cookies perfectly.

3. Espresso or Coffee: A cup of strong espresso or coffee provides a bold contrast to the sweet flavors in each cookie.

4. Nut Mix: A crunchy mix of nuts offers a delightful textural contrast, providing crunch alongside the soft cookies.

5. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle caramel sauce on top for an extra touch of sweetness that matches beautifully with the brûlée flavor.

6. Chocolate Mousse: Rich chocolate mousse creates an indulgent pairing that satisfies any sweet tooth craving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Creme Brûlée Cookies can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to subpar results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Incorrect Measurements – Always measure your ingredients accurately. Use a kitchen scale for dry ingredients and liquid measuring cups for liquids to ensure perfect ratios.
• Overmixing the Dough – Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a tender texture.
• Not Chilling the Dough – If you skip chilling the dough, your cookies might spread too much. Refrigerate the dough for at least an hour before baking.
• Skipping the Sugar Topping – The caramelized sugar is what makes these cookies special! Don’t forget to sprinkle enough sugar on top before broiling.
• Using Cold Ingredients – Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth batter and better cookie texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Creme Brûlée Cookies

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creme Brûlée Cookies

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat one cookie at a time in short bursts (10-15 seconds) until warm.
• Stovetop – Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries regarding Creme Brûlée Cookies:

Can I use different flavors of vanilla?

Yes! You can experiment with different extracts or flavorings like almond or hazelnut for unique twists.

How do I make the caramel topping?

Simply sprinkle granulated sugar evenly over the cooled cookies and use a kitchen torch or broiler until golden brown.

Can I use gluten-free flour?

Absolutely! Substitute with your favorite gluten-free flour blend, but ensure it has a binding agent like xanthan gum.

What can I add to customize my Creme Brûlée Cookies?

You can mix in chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits to enhance flavors and textures.

How should I store leftover pastry cream?

Keep leftover pastry cream in the fridge, covered, where it will last up to 3 days.

Final Thoughts

These Creme Brûlée Cookies offer a delightful combination of chewy cookie texture paired with creamy pastry filling. They’re versatile enough for any occasion and easy to customize with different flavors or toppings. Try them out today; you won’t be disappointed!