Name: Creme Brûlée Cookies
Prep time: 90 min
Cook time: 9 min
Total time: 119 min
Ingredients: 2 1/4 cups whole milk (540 ml); 6 egg yolks; 1 cup granulated white sugar (plus 2 tbsp (225 g)); 1/8 tsp salt; 1 1/2 tbsp vanilla bean paste; 3 1/2 tbsp cornstarch (28 g); 3 tbsp unsalted butter (cut in cubes, 42 g); 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled, 313 g); 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 1/4 cup granulated white sugar (250 g); 1 cup unsalted butter (softened, 224 g); 1 each egg; 1 tbsp vanilla bean paste; 1/2 cup granulated white sugar (for rolling the dough in, 100 g); 1/2 cup granulated white sugar (for the brulee topping, 100 g)

Introduction to Crème Brûlée Cookies

Why Crème Brûlée Cookies?

If you’ve ever indulged in a rich, creamy crème brûlée, you know how delightful that contrast of smooth custard and crunchy caramelized sugar can be. Now, imagine capturing that same essence in a cookie! Welcome to the world of Crème Brûlée Cookies, where classic French dessert meets your favorite baked treat. These cookies are perfect for both casual snacking and special occasions, bringing a touch of sophistication to any gathering.

The beauty of these cookies lies not only in their unique flavor profile but also in their texture. They are chewy, buttery, and soft, with a luscious center of vanilla pastry cream—and the crowning glory: a toasty layer of caramelized sugar on top. It's like enjoying a mini dessert that's easy to share (or keep all to yourself).

Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

Whether you’re trying to impress guests at a dinner party or simply treating yourself after a long week, Crème Brûlée Cookies are a guaranteed hit. Plus, there’s something wonderfully satisfying about breaking through that glossy sugar crust to reveal the creamy delight underneath. If you’re ready to bring some gourmet flair into your kitchen, keep reading. You'll find a full recipe below that'll have you whipping up these cookies in no time.

Ingredients for Crème Brûlée Cookies

To create these delectable Crème Brûlée Cookies, you’ll need a couple of key components: a luscious vanilla pastry cream and buttery sugar cookies. Each plays a crucial role in delivering that rich, creamy experience we all love!

Key Ingredients for Vanilla Pastry Cream

Whole Milk: 2 ¼ cups provides a smooth base.
Egg Yolks: 6 for that luscious, creamy consistency.
Granulated Sugar: 1 cup + 2 tablespoon to sweeten without overpowering.
Salt: ⅛ teaspoon to enhance flavors.
Vanilla Bean Paste: 1 ½ tablespoon for that signature vanilla aroma.
Cornstarch: 3 ½ tablespoon to thicken.
Unsalted Butter: 3 tablespoon (cut into cubes) for richness.

Essential Ingredients for Sugar Cookies

All-Purpose Flour: 2 ½ cups, providing structure.
Baking Powder: ½ teaspoon for a perfect rise.
Salt: ½ teaspoon to balance sweetness.
Granulated Sugar: 1 ¼ cup makes them delightfully sweet.
Unsalted Butter: 1 cup, softened for the ideal texture.
Egg: 1, to bind everything together.
Vanilla Bean Paste: 1 tablespoon for that oh-so-good flavor.
Extra Granulated Sugar: For rolling dough and topping (½ cup each).

Gather these ingredients and get ready to impress with your own Crème Brûlée Cookies! If you're interested in exploring different variations of pastry cream, check out this resource for more tips.

Preparing Crème Brûlée Cookies

Creating Crème Brûlée Cookies is a delightful experience blending classic flavors with a fun twist. With our step-by-step guide, you’ll soon be indulging in these chewy, buttery delights topped with rich vanilla pastry cream. Let's dive in!

Create the Vanilla Pastry Cream

Our adventure begins with the luscious vanilla pastry cream that forms the heart of these cookies.

Start by heating 2 ¼ cups of whole milk in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat until it's steaming but not boiling. This step infuses your cream with warmth and sets the tone for richness.
In a large bowl, whisk together 6 egg yolks, 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, ⅛ teaspoon of salt, 1 ½ tablespoons of vanilla bean paste, and 3 ½ tablespoons of cornstarch. You’re looking for a pale, smooth mixture.
Gradually mix in about ¼ of the warm milk while whisking vigorously, then add the rest of the milk and combine it well. Transfer this mixture back into the saucepan, cooking on medium-low heat while continuously whisking for about 8-12 minutes until thick and creamy. Stir in 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter, and don’t forget to cover it with plastic wrap to cool—this prevents a skin from forming. Once chilled, you'll have a luxurious filling waiting to elevate your cookies.

Mix the Sugar Cookie Dough

Next, we’ll whip up the sugar cookie base that complements our pastry cream perfectly.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and line two cookie sheets with parchment paper. While the oven warms up, combine 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt in a bowl. Set aside.
In a separate large bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 ¼ cups of granulated sugar until fluffy (about two minutes). Add in 1 egg and 1 tablespoon of vanilla bean paste, mixing until pale and airy.
Gradually add in the dry ingredients until the dough forms. This can take a minute or so, but don’t overmix—just until it comes together is perfect.

Scoop and Roll the Cookie Dough

Now comes the fun part—forming those irresistible cookie shapes!

Using a large cookie scoop, drop the dough onto the parchment-lined sheets. Roll each scoop into a ball, about 1.5 inches in diameter, before rolling them in ½ cup of granulated sugar for that signature sweetness.
Place the balls on the cookie sheets, slightly flattening each one. Aim to bake 6 cookies per batch to allow for that lovely spread.

Bake the Cookies

As your oven reaches temperature, it’s time to bake these treats to perfection.

Bake the cookies for about 9-10 minutes or until golden around the edges. They should look slightly underbaked in the center, which is just how you want them for that chewy texture.
Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to finish cooling completely.

Assemble with Pastry Cream

Once your cookies are completely cooled, it’s time to assemble and add the finishing touches!

Transfer your cooled vanilla pastry cream into a piping bag fitted with a small circular tip. Pipe a generous swirl onto each cookie, creating that decadent contrast of flavors.
Sprinkle about 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar on top of the cream for that classic crème brûlée finishing touch. Now, use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar, transforming it into a golden, crispy shell. The sweet aroma of roasted sugar will fill your kitchen—how delightful!
Enjoy your Crème Brûlée Cookies right away, as they’re best fresh. Trust us, the combination of chewy cookie, creamy filling, and crunchy topping is simply irresistible.

Whether you're baking for a gathering or just treating yourself, these cookies are sure to impress. Happy baking!

Variations on Crème Brûlée Cookies

If you're looking to switch up your Crème Brûlée Cookies, you’re in luck! Here are a couple of delicious variations to tantalize your taste buds.

Chocolate Crème Brûlée Cookies

Indulge in a rich twist by incorporating cocoa powder into the cookie dough. This gives the cookies a deep chocolate flavor that pairs beautifully with a chocolate-infused vanilla pastry cream. Simply replace ¼ cup of flour with cocoa powder and melt your heart with every bite!

Fruit-Infused Crème Brûlée Cookies

For a refreshing take, consider adding your favorite fruit purée—like raspberry or mango—into the pastry cream. This adds a vibrant flavor and a pop of color that’s perfect for any gathering. Blend the fruit well to ensure a smooth cream, and watch as these cookies become the star of your dessert table!

Feeling inspired? Check out more ideas at Serious Eats and start experimenting!

Baking Notes for Crème Brûlée Cookies

Tips for Consistent Texture

Achieving that perfect chewy texture in your Crème Brûlée Cookies requires consistency. Make sure to accurately measure your flour using the spoon-and-level method; this avoids any excess flour that could lead to dry cookies. Additionally, allow the butter to soften at room temperature, ensuring it creams well with the sugar for that light and airy base.

Importance of Ingredient Temperatures

Pay attention to the temperature of your ingredients. Using room temperature eggs helps the dough mix more evenly, contributing to a lovely, uniform texture. For the vanilla pastry cream, warm milk is essential for achieving the right consistency. If you're unsure, you can always refer to reliable sources like King Arthur Baking for tips on ingredient temperatures!

Serving Suggestions for Crème Brûlée Cookies

Perfect Pairings for Dessert

When it comes to enjoying your Crème Brûlée Cookies, consider enhancing the experience with thoughtful pairings. A rich cup of coffee or a creamy chai latte can provide a delightful contrast to the cookies' sweet, buttery flavor. For something lighter, try serving these cookies with a refreshing berry compote; the tartness beautifully complements the creamy vanilla pastry cream.

Creative Presentations

Presentation can elevate any dessert, and your Crème Brûlée Cookies are no exception! Arrange them on a beautiful platter, perhaps with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an elegant touch. You could even stack them in a jar for a playful, rustic look. For a unique twist, consider using small individual dessert cups to serve cookies alongside scoops of fresh ice cream. This combination will surely delight your guests and make your treat stand out.

For more inspiration on dessert pairings and creative ideas, check out Food52's dessert guides.

Tips for Making Perfect Crème Brûlée Cookies

Avoiding Common Mistakes

To truly achieve the perfect crème brûlée cookies, pay attention to your dough's consistency. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so mix just until everything is combined. Also, ensure your butter is softened but not melted; this affects the texture. When bruleeing the sugar, make sure to use a kitchen torch held at a distance to prevent burning. Finally, enjoy them fresh, as the pastry cream can soften the cookie if left for too long.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re in a pinch, there are some easy ingredient substitutions for these crème brûlée cookies. For example, you can swap out whole milk with almond milk for a dairy-free version, or use a plant-based butter alternative to make them vegan-friendly. Instead of granulated sugar for the rolling part, try using coconut sugar for a hint of caramel flavor, adding a unique twist to your delicious cookies!

For more tips on baking, check out Baker's Guide for expert insights.

Time Details for Crème Brûlée Cookies

Preparation Time

Getting the creamy vanilla pastry cream ready and mixing up the cookie dough takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes. This is the perfect time to sip on your favorite coffee or tea while you enjoy the process!

Baking Time

Once those delicious cookie dough balls are ready, they need about 9 minutes in the oven. Keep an eye on them for that perfect golden color!

Total Time

In total, you’re looking at around 1 hour and 59 minutes to create these delightful crème brûlée cookies. Trust us, the wait is worth every minute!

While you’re at it, you might find it fun to explore some more baking techniques—check out this informative guide on cookie baking tips from The Kitchn. Happy baking!

Nutritional Information for Crème Brûlée Cookies

If you’re wondering about the indulgent Crème Brûlée Cookies you’re about to enjoy, here’s a quick breakdown of their nutritional content:

Calories

Each cookie packs approximately 140 calories, making it a sweet treat worth savoring in moderation.

Fat

With around 7 grams of fat per cookie, these delightful bites offer a buttery richness that perfectly complements the creamy pastry filling.

Sugar

Each cookie contains about 10 grams of sugar, balancing sweetness with delicious buttery flavors and creamy textures.

For more details on lavish dessert options, consider checking out the USDA's nutrition database for comprehensive food insights. Enjoy every bite of these captivating Crème Brûlée Cookies!

FAQs about Crème Brûlée Cookies

Can I make these cookies in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the Crème Brûlée Cookies up to a day in advance. Just bake the cookies and store them in an airtight container. However, it's best to add the pastry cream and caramelized sugar topping right before serving to ensure they stay fresh and don't become soggy.

How do I store leftover cookies?

If you have leftover cookies (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, you can keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just remember, once you add the pastry cream, it will need refrigeration!

What if I don’t have a kitchen torch?

No worries! You can use your oven broiler as an alternative. Just sprinkle the sugar on the cookies and place them under the broiler for a few seconds, watching closely to achieve that beautiful golden caramelized top. For detailed guidance, check out this broiling guide. Enjoy creating your Crème Brûlée Cookies!

Conclusion on Crème Brûlée Cookies

In conclusion, these Crème Brûlée Cookies are an exquisite treat that combines the classic flavors of the beloved dessert with a delightful cookie twist. With their chewy texture and rich pastry cream, they are perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. Enjoy crafting these delicious cookies!