Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies Recipe

Imagine biting into a cookie that’s warm, soft at the center, and delightfully crisp at the edges, with a rich caramel sweetness and that magical depth only brown sugar can bring. These Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies are everything you love about a classic cookie, but with an amplified flavor profile and an irresistibly chewy texture that keeps you coming back for just one more. They’re simple to make, impossible to resist, and ready to turn any day into something special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies rely on a handful of humble pantry staples, each working behind the scenes to create that crave-worthy chew and deep flavor. Here’s what you’ll need and why you’ll love working with each one:

• All-purpose flour: The sturdy backbone of your cookies, flour provides structure and helps them hold their shape while baking.
• Baking soda: This gives your cookies just the right lift, making them puff perfectly before settling into chewy goodness.
• Salt: A little salt wakes up all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Unsalted butter (softened): Softened butter blends beautifully, adding richness and that melt-in-your-mouth texture you crave.
• Packed brown sugar (light or dark): The real star—brown sugar gives these cookies their soft chew and irresistible caramel notes.
• Large egg: This binds everything together and gives lift to keep the centers deliciously soft.
• Vanilla extract: Just a teaspoon, but it brings a warm, aromatic depth that rounds out the flavors.
• Granulated sugar (for rolling): A coating of sugar ensures a crisp, crackly exterior for lovely contrast to the chewy center.

How to Make Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by setting the scene for success. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This not only prevents sticking but also encourages those beautiful golden-brown bottoms without any risk of burning.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This step evenly distributes the leavening and salt, ensuring each cookie puffs up and tastes perfect in every bite.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, add the softened butter and brown sugar. Use an electric mixer to beat them until the mixture turns light and fluffy, about two to three minutes. The magic begins here—the air you whip in sets up a tender, chewy crumb.

Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla

With the mixer running at low, beat in the egg and vanilla extract. Mix until everything looks creamy and incorporated. This not only infuses the dough with warm vanilla notes but helps the texture stay irresistibly soft.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to your wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—stir just until you no longer see streaks of flour. This is what ensures your Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies stay moist and tender, not tough.

Step 6: Roll the Dough

Use a tablespoon to scoop out portions of dough, rolling each gently between your hands into even balls. Then, roll them in granulated sugar, coating each surface for a sparkly, crisp finish once baked.

Step 7: Bake

Place your sugar-rolled dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, allowing at least two inches of space between them. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes—look for golden edges and centers that look just set, but still soft. That underdone center is the secret to staying chewy once cooled!

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for five minutes before moving them to a wire rack to cool fully. This helps them finish setting up with the perfect chewy texture. Now step back and admire your batch of homemade Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies!

How to Serve Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies

Garnishes

Top your freshly baked cookies with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for an extra pop of flavor, or drizzle with a bit of melted chocolate if you’re feeling indulgent. A scoop of vanilla ice cream sandwiched between two cookies is an instant crowd-pleaser!

Side Dishes

Serve Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies with a tall glass of ice-cold milk or hot coffee to balance the sweetness. They also go amazingly well with a fruit salad or a bowl of fresh berries for a refreshing contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack cookies in a clear jar tied with a ribbon for a stunning homemade gift, or build a cookie tower for a dessert table centerpiece. You can even use these cookies as bases for mini ice cream sandwiches or dunk them halfway in dark chocolate for a sophisticated touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any extra Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and delicious for up to five days—a quick treat any time you need one!

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze baked cookies in a single layer before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. You can also freeze unbaked dough balls; just thaw slightly and roll in sugar before baking fresh cookies on demand.

Reheating

If you like your cookies warm, give them a few seconds in the microwave. Ten to fifteen seconds brings back that fresh-from-the-oven sensation and revives their perfect chew.

FAQs

Can I use dark brown sugar instead of light?

Absolutely! Dark brown sugar makes these Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies even richer, with a deeper molasses flavor and a slightly darker color. Pick whichever you prefer or have on hand.

Why do my cookies turn out hard instead of chewy?

Overbaking or using too much flour can cause cookies to firm up. For ideal chewiness, pull them from the oven when the centers look just set but not dry, and make sure to measure flour precisely.

Can I add mix-ins to this recipe?

Definitely! Chocolate chips, chopped pecans, or shredded coconut all work beautifully in Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies. Just fold them in after mixing the dough for flavor twists.

Do I need to chill the dough?

This recipe doesn’t require chilling, but if you want extra thick cookies or find your dough is sticky, a 20- to 30-minute chill in the fridge helps with handling and prevents too much spreading.

Are these cookies good for making ahead?

Yes! You can prepare the dough ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake, or freeze dough balls for even longer storage. It’s a fantastic option for quick, fresh cookies any time cravings strike.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about the simple combination of brown sugar and butter that makes these Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies absolutely unforgettable. They’re the kind you’ll want to bake again and again—so gather your ingredients, bake up a batch, and share the sweet joy with your friends and family!

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