Creme Brûlée Cookies

These Creme Brûlée Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the classic flavors of creme brûlée with the softness of cookies. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies deliver a rich and creamy vanilla pastry cream topped with caramelized sugar. They’re chewy, buttery, and sure to impress your family and friends!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of buttery cookies and creamy vanilla filling will satisfy any sweet tooth.
• Versatile Treat: Great for parties, holidays, or just a cozy night in, these cookies fit every occasion.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up these gourmet cookies without fuss.
• Impressive Presentation: The caramelized sugar topping gives them a beautiful finish that looks as good as they taste.
• Chewy Texture: These cookies have the perfect balance of softness and chewiness, making them hard to resist.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delectable Creme Brûlée Cookies, having the right tools is essential. Below are the tools you’ll need to ensure a smooth baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Rubber spatula
• Kitchen torch (for caramelizing sugar)

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently without spillage.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth consistency in your pastry cream by thoroughly mixing egg yolks and sugar.
• Kitchen torch: Provides precise control when caramelizing the sugar topping, giving that signature crunch.

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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 Cookie Dough:

• 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 Vanilla Pastry Cream

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the whole milk and half of the granulated sugar. Stir until dissolved.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, remaining sugar, salt, vanilla bean paste, and cornstarch until well blended.
3. Gradually pour some of the warm 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.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cubed butter until melted. Transfer to a bowl and cover with plastic wrap directly on the surface. Refrigerate until cool.

Step 2: Make Cookie Dough

1. In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Beat in one egg and add vanilla bean paste until combined.
3. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients until just combined.

Step 3: Assemble Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Scoop cookie dough onto a lined baking sheet; flatten slightly with your fingers.
3. Using a piping bag or spoon, add a dollop of chilled pastry cream onto each cookie.
4. Bake for about 9 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.

Step 4: Caramelize Sugar Topping

1. Once baked, let cookies cool slightly on a wire rack.
2. Sprinkle an even layer of granulated sugar over each pastry cream dollop.
3. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until it is golden brown.

Enjoy your delicious Creme Brûlée Cookies fresh out of the oven!

How to Serve Creme Brûlée Cookies

Creme brûlée cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to impress guests or simply indulge yourself, here are some serving suggestions that enhance their rich flavors.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve your cookies alongside a mix of fresh berries like strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries to add a refreshing contrast.

Whipped Cream

• Consider topping the cookies with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra creamy texture that complements the rich vanilla flavor.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Use the cookies to create delicious ice cream sandwiches. Choose vanilla or caramel ice cream for a perfect pairing.

Coffee or Tea

• Pair these cookies with your favorite coffee or tea. The warmth of the drink enhances the creamy notes of the cookie.

Chocolate Drizzle

• Drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies for a decadent touch. Dark chocolate works well with the sweetness of the cookies.

How to Perfect Creme Brûlée Cookies

To achieve the best results with your creme brûlée cookies, consider these helpful tips for perfecting your baking technique.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh eggs and high-quality vanilla bean paste for the richest flavor in your pastry cream.

• Chill Your Dough: After mixing, chill your cookie dough for at least 30 minutes. This will help maintain shape while baking.

• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon and level your flour when measuring to avoid dense cookies. Too much flour can lead to dry results.

• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking. They should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center.

• Cool Before Topping: Let your cookies cool completely before adding caramelized sugar on top for brulee effect; this helps prevent melting.

Best Side Dishes for Creme Brûlée Cookies

Pairing side dishes with creme brûlée cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options to consider:

1. Fruit Salad
   A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.

2. Chocolate Fondue
   Serve a bowl of warm chocolate fondue for dipping. It creates an interactive dessert experience.

3. Cheese Platter
   An assortment of cheeses, especially creamy varieties, pairs nicely and contrasts with the sweet flavors.

4. Biscotti
   Crunchy biscotti can provide a nice texture contrast when served alongside these soft cookies.

5. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and fruit in a glass for a light side that complements the rich cookies.

6. Panna Cotta
   This smooth Italian dessert offers a creamy texture that harmonizes beautifully with creme brûlée cookies.

7. Coconut Macaroons
   Sweet and chewy macaroons add another layer of flavor while being gluten-free, making them versatile for many diets.

8. Homemade Fruit Sorbet
   A refreshing sorbet made from pureed fruits is a great way to cleanse the palate after indulging in these sweet treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, and these common mistakes can affect the outcome of your creme brûlée cookies.

• Overmixing the dough: This can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined for a soft texture.
• Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Using cold butter or eggs can hinder the dough’s consistency. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature.
• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough helps maintain shape during baking. Don’t skip this step for best results.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can result in dry cookies. Spoon and level your flour for accuracy.
• Inadequate cooling time: Allowing cookies to cool completely before adding toppings ensures they won’t become soggy.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your creme brûlée cookies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Creme Brûlée Cookies

• Freeze baked cookies in a single layer, then transfer them to an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• To prevent freezer burn, wrap each cookie in plastic wrap before placing them in the container.

Reheating Creme Brûlée Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on low power for about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat for a couple of minutes, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making creme brûlée cookies.

What makes creme brûlée cookies different from regular cookies?

Creme brûlée cookies feature a creamy vanilla pastry cream topping that mimics traditional creme brûlée flavors, offering a rich experience unlike standard cookies.

Can I customize my creme brûlée cookies?

Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or even fruit zests to create variations tailored to your taste.

How do I ensure my creme brûlée cookies are chewy?

Make sure not to overbake them; keeping an eye on their color will help achieve that perfect chewy texture.

Can I use substitutes for the eggs in creme brûlée cookies?

Yes! You can try using flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with water as egg substitutes for a vegan version.

Final Thoughts

These delicious creme brûlée cookies combine chewy sweetness with rich pastry cream, making them irresistible. They offer great versatility; feel free to customize with your favorite mix-ins or toppings. Give this recipe a try and treat yourself!