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SEO Title Tag: Easy Brown Sugar Cookies Recipe Everyone Will Love
Meta Description: Discover how to make easy brown sugar cookies that are soft, chewy, and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy baking with this simple recipe!
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Easy Brown Sugar Cookies

Imagine biting into a warm, soft cookie that melts in your mouth with every bite. These easy brown sugar cookies are just that! They are perfectly sweet, with a hint of caramel flavor from the brown sugar. Ideal for any occasion, this cookie is a cherished recipe I’ve perfected over years of baking with friends and family. After testing this recipe multiple times for texture and flavor balance, I’m excited to share the results with you.

With simple ingredients and methods, these cookies will quickly become a staple in your home. Let’s get started whipping up a batch of these delightful treats!

Why This Recipe Works

Brown Sugar Depth: The use of brown sugar creates a richer, chewier texture than white sugar alone, delivering a warm caramel flavor.
Butter for Flavor: Using butter instead of oil adds a creamy richness that enhances the cookie’s overall taste.
Resting the Dough: Letting the dough chill for at least 30 minutes helps develop the flavors and improves the texture.
Perfect Baking Time: Baking them until just golden on the edges ensures a chewy center.
Universal Appeal: These cookies are simple enough for beginners and loved by all ages, making them perfect for gatherings.

Ingredients Breakdown

225 g (2 cups) all-purpose flour: The base of the cookie. You can use a gluten-free flour blend if needed, though the texture may vary.
100 g (½ cup) brown sugar: This gives the cookies their signature flavor and chewiness. Light or dark brown sugar works here, but dark will intensify the flavor.
100 g (½ cup) granulated sugar: Balances the flavor and helps in achieving a crunchy exterior.
115 g (½ cup) unsalted butter, room temperature: Adds moisture and a rich taste. Use salted butter for a touch of savory flavor.
1 large egg: Binds the ingredients and adds moisture. For a vegan option, use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water).
1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the cookie’s flavor. Opt for pure vanilla extract for a more robust taste.
½ tsp baking soda: Helps the cookies rise slightly and gives them a soft texture.
½ tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
Optional mix-ins: Consider adding chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit for a twist. Adjust measurements based on preference.

Essential Equipment

Mixing bowl: A medium-sized bowl is great for mixing dough.
Electric mixer (or whisk): Helps cream the butter and sugars together easily.
Baking sheet: Use a standard baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Wire rack: Essential for cooling cookies evenly after baking.
Cookie scoop or tablespoon: For evenly portioning dough.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Inactive Time: 30 minutes (dough chilling)
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 12 cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a mixing bowl, beat 115 g (½ cup) room temperature unsalted butter, 100 g (½ cup) brown sugar, and 100 g (½ cup) granulated sugar together with a mixer until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.

Step 2: Add Egg and Vanilla

Mix in 1 large egg and 1 tsp vanilla extract until well combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is mixed well.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together 225 g (2 cups) all-purpose flour, ½ tsp baking soda, and ½ tsp salt. Gradually mix this into the wet ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix — stop as soon as no dry flour is visible.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps improve the texture of the cookies.

Step 5: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) while the dough is chilling. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 6: Portion and Shape

Scoop the chilled dough into balls about 30 g (2 tablespoons) each. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spaced about 5 cm (2 inches) apart.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, until the edges are golden brown and the centers appear set. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Expert Tips & Pro Techniques

Common Mistake: Avoid overmixing the dough once the flour is added. This can lead to tough cookies.
Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just remember to allow it to warm slightly before scooping.
Bakery Technique: For an added depth of flavor, consider browning the butter before mixing it in. This adds a nutty flavor that elevates the cookies.
Chilling the Dough: Chilling not only improves the texture but helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking. Don’t skip this step!
Freezing Unbaked Cookies: If you have leftover dough, scoop cookies on a tray and freeze until solid. Transfer to a bag and bake straight from frozen, adding a couple of minutes to the baking time.

Storage & Reheating

Refrigerator: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Freezer: These cookies freeze well! Store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying.
Reheating: Reheat in a 175°C (350°F) oven for 10–12 minutes. Avoid microwaving — it makes the cookies soggy.

Variations & Substitutions

Gluten-Free Version: Replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend (like Bob’s Red Mill). Baking time may increase by 2–3 minutes.
Vegan Version: Use a flax egg instead of a regular egg and coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free treat.
Chocolate Chip Addition: Fold in 150 g (1 cup) chocolate chips after combining all ingredients, adjusting baking time if needed.
Spiced Variation: Add 1 tsp ground cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spicy kick.
Nutty Version: Mix in 100 g (1 cup) chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Pair these cookies with a glass of cold milk or a hot cup of tea for the perfect afternoon snack. For added delight, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside our [Hot Chocolate Recipe]. They also make excellent gifts when presented in a decorative tin.

Nutrition Information

Per cookie (total of 12 cookies):
Calories: 165, Total Fat: 7 g, Saturated Fat: 4 g, Cholesterol: 20 mg, Sodium: 100 mg, Total Carbohydrates: 23 g, Dietary Fiber: 0 g, Sugars: 10 g, Protein: 2 g.
Nutrition values are estimates. Actual values may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did my cookies turn out dry?
This often happens due to overbaking or too much flour. Ensure precise measurements and keep an eye on the baking time.

Can I make this without eggs?
Yes! You can replace the egg with a flax egg or applesauce for similar binding properties.

Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! Just remember to bake in batches as your oven can only handle so many cookies at once.

Can I prepare this the night before?
You can make the dough ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just allow it to warm slightly before scooping.

How long does this keep in the fridge?
These cookies will stay fresh for up to 5 days in an airtight container.