Creme Brûlée Cookies

These Creme Brûlée Cookies are an irresistible treat that perfectly blend the classic flavors of the beloved dessert into a delightful cookie form. Ideal for gatherings, special occasions, or simply as a sweet indulgence at home, these cookies feature a chewy and buttery texture topped with rich, creamy vanilla pastry cream and a crisp caramelized sugar layer. You’ll love how easy they are to make and how they impress everyone who tries them.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor – Enjoy the rich taste of vanilla combined with a sweet caramel topping that makes these cookies truly stand out.
• Chewy Texture – The perfect balance between soft and chewy creates a delightful bite that keeps you coming back for more.
• Versatile Treat – Whether for parties, holidays, or simply an afternoon snack, these cookies are suitable for any occasion.
• Easy to Make – With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can craft delicious cookies without fuss.
• Impressive Presentation – The stunning caramelized topping gives these cookies an elegant look that’s sure to impress guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Creme Brûlée Cookies, gather your essential tools and familiarize yourself with their uses. This will streamline your baking process and ensure you have everything at hand.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Kitchen torch

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls – These allow you to combine ingredients thoroughly without mess.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements are crucial for the perfect balance of flavors in baking.
• Kitchen torch – This is essential for achieving that classic caramelized sugar topping on your cookies.

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

For Rolling and Topping

• 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

Begin by heating the milk in a saucepan over medium heat until it is just about to boil. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, granulated sugar, salt, vanilla bean paste, cornstarch, and cubed butter until smooth. Gradually add the hot milk mixture into this bowl while whisking continuously. Return everything back to the saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir until thickened. Once thick, transfer it to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent skin from forming. Chill in the fridge.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the egg and vanilla bean paste; mix until well incorporated. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet mixture until just combined.

Step 3: Assemble Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop portions of cookie dough using a cookie scoop or tablespoon. Roll each portion in granulated sugar before placing them on the prepared baking sheets. Use your thumb to create an indentation in each cookie.

Step 4: Add Pastry Cream & Bake

Fill each indentation with chilled pastry cream before placing them in the oven. Bake for about 9 minutes or until lightly golden around edges. Allow cooling slightly on baking sheets before transferring them to wire racks.

Step 5: Caramelize Sugar Topping

Once cooled completely, sprinkle an even layer of granulated sugar over each cookie’s pastry cream filling. Use your kitchen torch to carefully caramelize the sugar until golden brown and crispy.

With these steps complete, enjoy your homemade Creme Brûlée Cookies! Perfect for sharing or savoring all by yourself!

How to Serve Creme Brûlée Cookies

These delectable creme brûlée cookies are perfect for any occasion. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a variety of accompaniments to enhance their creamy, caramelized flavor.

With Fresh Fruits

• Berries: Serve alongside strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a fresh and tangy contrast.
• Sliced Citrus: Oranges or grapefruits add a zesty brightness that complements the sweetness of the cookies.

With Whipped Cream

• Sweetened Whipped Cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream enhances the richness of the cookies.
• Flavored Whipped Cream: Try adding vanilla or citrus zest to your whipped cream for an exciting twist.

With Coffee or Tea

• Espresso: The bold flavor of espresso pairs wonderfully with the buttery taste of the cookies.
• Herbal Tea: A light herbal tea, like chamomile, provides a soothing balance to the sweetness.

How to Perfect Creme Brûlée Cookies

To make sure your creme brûlée cookies come out delicious every time, follow these handy tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh eggs and high-quality vanilla bean paste to achieve the best flavor.
• Measure Accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method for flour and sugar to ensure you get the right texture.
• Chill the Dough: Refrigerating your cookie dough helps prevent spreading during baking, resulting in thicker cookies.
• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies in the oven; they should be lightly golden at the edges but still soft in the center.
• Caramelize Sugar Carefully: When adding the brulee topping, ensure even coverage and melt it slowly for a perfect finish.

Best Side Dishes for Creme Brûlée Cookies

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

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of fruits adds brightness and freshness that balances sweetness.
2. Chocolate Mousse: Rich and creamy mousse provides a decadent pairing that chocolate lovers will adore.
3. Panna Cotta: This smooth Italian dessert can complement the texture of your cookies beautifully.
4. Ice Cream: Vanilla or caramel ice cream enhances flavors and adds a delightful cold element.
5. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can create an interesting savory-sweet contrast.
6. Nut Brittle: Crunchy nut brittle offers a sweet, crunchy texture that pairs well with soft cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making these delicious creme brûlée cookies, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly.

• Using cold ingredients: Always use room temperature butter and eggs for a better texture. Cold ingredients can lead to uneven mixing and denser cookies.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Spoon and level your flour instead of scooping directly from the bag. Scooping can pack the flour and lead to dry cookies.
• Overbaking the cookies: Keep a close eye on the baking time. Cookies should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center when you take them out.
• Skipping the chilling step: Allowing the cookie dough to chill helps maintain their shape during baking. Don’t skip this step for best results.
• Using too much sugar for brulee topping: A thin layer of sugar is sufficient for caramelizing. Too much can result in an overly sweet topping that overshadows the cookie flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooled cookies in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creme Brûlée Cookies

• Place well-wrapped cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creme Brûlée Cookies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place cookies on a baking sheet and warm for 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time on medium power for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid. Warm for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making creme brûlée cookies:

Can I use other flavors instead of vanilla?

Absolutely! You can experiment with flavored extracts like almond or citrus zest for unique variations.

How do I achieve a crunchy brulee topping?

Sprinkle just enough sugar on top before caramelizing it under a broiler or with a kitchen torch.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking.

What makes these cookies soft and chewy?

The combination of butter, egg yolks, and proper baking time creates that delightful chewy texture.

Final Thoughts

These creme brûlée cookies are not just delicious; they’re versatile too! You can easily customize them by adding different flavors or toppings according to your preference. Try making them today; they are sure to impress everyone!