Creme Brûlée Cookies

These Creme Brûlée Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic dessert. Chewy, buttery, and soft sugar cookies are filled with rich vanilla pastry cream and topped with a perfectly caramelized sugar crust. They are perfect for various occasions, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just craving something sweet. What sets these cookies apart is their unique flavor profile and the satisfying contrast of textures from the creamy filling and crunchy topping.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of vanilla bean paste and caramelized sugar brings an indulgent taste to every bite.
• Easy to Follow: The straightforward instructions make it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile Treat: Suitable for celebrations, casual snacks, or as a special dessert after dinner.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the vanilla pastry cream in advance, making cookie assembly quick and easy.
• Impressive Presentation: These cookies look gourmet, making them perfect for sharing at gatherings.

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Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools will ensure your baking process goes smoothly. Make sure you have everything ready before you start baking these delicious cookies.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Kitchen torch (for caramelizing)

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently without spilling.
• Kitchen torch: This tool is crucial for achieving that signature caramelized sugar topping that makes these cookies special.
• Baking sheets: Provides even heat distribution while baking, ensuring your cookies cook consistently.

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

• In a medium saucepan, heat the whole milk over medium heat until hot but not boiling.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks, granulated sugar, salt, and vanilla bean paste until smooth.
• Gradually add hot milk into the egg mixture while whisking continuously to temper the eggs.
• Return this mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat until it thickens. Stir constantly for about 5 minutes.
• Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in cubed butter until melted. Let it cool completely before using.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
• Beat in the egg and vanilla bean paste until well combined.
• In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet ingredients until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Assemble Cookies

• Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and flatten each slightly in your hand.
• Place about one teaspoon of cooled vanilla pastry cream in the center of each dough portion. Fold dough around filling to seal completely.
• Roll each cookie ball in granulated sugar before placing on prepared baking sheets.

Step 4: Bake

• Bake cookies in preheated oven for about 9 minutes or until lightly golden around edges.
• Remove from oven and let cool on baking sheets for several minutes before transferring to wire racks.

Step 5: Caramelize Sugar Top

• Once cooled completely, sprinkle each cookie with granulated sugar for topping. Use a kitchen torch to carefully caramelize the sugar until golden brown.

Enjoy your delightful Creme Brûlée Cookies! These treats will surely impress friends and family alike.

How to Serve Creme Brûlée Cookies

Creme brûlée cookies are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging at home, these cookies can elevate any occasion.

With a Cup of Coffee

• Pairing these cookies with coffee enhances the flavors. The rich buttery taste complements the bitterness of coffee perfectly.

As a Dessert Platter

• Arrange creme brûlée cookies on a dessert platter with fresh fruits and other baked goods for an attractive presentation.

With Ice Cream

• Serve these cookies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The heat from the cookie melts the ice cream slightly, creating a delicious contrast.

At Parties

• Offer creme brûlée cookies at your next party as a unique dessert option. Guests will love their chewy texture and creamy filling.

For Special Occasions

• These cookies make an excellent choice for birthdays or celebrations. Their elegant look and taste can impress your guests.

How to Perfect Creme Brûlée Cookies

Perfecting creme brûlée cookies requires some attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out wonderfully every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh eggs and high-quality butter for the best flavor and texture.

• Chill the Dough: After mixing, chill the dough for at least an hour. This helps maintain shape while baking.

• Measure Accurately: Use precise measurements for flour and sugar to achieve the right consistency in your cookie dough.

• Watch Baking Time: Keep a close eye on baking times; overbaking can lead to dry cookies instead of chewy ones.

• Caramelize Carefully: When topping with sugar, use a kitchen torch or broiler cautiously to achieve an even caramelization without burning.

Best Side Dishes for Creme Brûlée Cookies

These delicious creme brûlée cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance their flavor. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries adds a refreshing touch to balance the sweetness of the cookies.

2. Chocolate Fondue: Serve with chocolate fondue for dipping. It introduces an indulgent element that pairs beautifully with the cookie’s flavors.

3. Fruit Sorbet: A scoop of fruity sorbet provides a light and refreshing contrast to the rich cookie.

4. Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like brie or mascarpone for a sophisticated touch that complements the sweet notes.

5. Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream can be served alongside for those who enjoy extra creaminess with their cookies.

6. Coffee or Tea: Offering coffee or herbal teas creates a perfect pairing, enhancing both flavors while adding warmth to your serving experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Creme Brûlée Cookies can be a delightful experience. However, a few mistakes can lead to disappointing results.

• Overmixing the Dough: This can make your cookies tough. Mix until just combined for a tender texture.
• Skipping the Chilling Step: Not chilling the dough can lead to flat cookies. Chill for at least 30 minutes for better shape.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold butter and eggs can affect the dough consistency. Always use room temperature ingredients for best results.
• Inaccurate Measurements: Precision is crucial in baking. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups correctly to avoid inconsistencies.
• Neglecting Oven Temperature: An incorrect oven temperature can ruin your cookies. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate readings.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Allow cookies to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Creme Brûlée Cookies

• Wrap cookies individually in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creme Brûlée Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes for a fresh taste.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie on medium power for 10-15 seconds; avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Creme Brûlée Cookies that can help you out.

How do I make the vanilla pastry cream?

To make the vanilla pastry cream, combine milk, egg yolks, sugar, salt, and cornstarch in a saucepan. Cook on medium heat while stirring until thickened, then add butter and vanilla bean paste.

Can I use different flavors instead of vanilla?

Yes! You can experiment with flavors like almond or coffee extract to create unique versions of your Creme Brûlée Cookies.

How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?

Ensure your dough is well-chilled before baking and don’t skip the flour measurements. This helps maintain their shape.

What should I do if my sugar topping doesn’t caramelize properly?

If the sugar doesn’t caramelize, try using a kitchen torch or broiler while keeping a close eye on it to achieve that perfect brûlée crust.

Final Thoughts

These Creme Brûlée Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding chocolate chips or nuts for extra flavor and texture. Try this recipe and enjoy these delightful treats today!