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Perfect Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe with Flaky Sea Salt Easy and Crispy

brown butter chocolate chip cookies - featured image

These cookies feature browned butter for a nutty, caramelized flavor with crispy edges and chewy centers, topped with flaky sea salt for a perfect sweet and salty balance.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, browned
  • 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • 1 cup packed (220g) dark brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 2 3/4 cups (345g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (for dough)
  • 2 cups (340g) semisweet or dark chocolate chips
  • About 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt for sprinkling

Instructions

  1. Brown the butter: Place 1 cup unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly as it melts, foams, and bubbles until it turns golden brown and smells nutty, about 7-10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.
  2. Mix sugars and browned butter: In a large bowl, combine browned butter with 3/4 cup granulated sugar and 1 cup dark brown sugar. Stir or beat until smooth and creamy.
  3. Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in 2 large eggs one at a time, then add 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract. Mix until glossy and thick.
  4. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
  5. Incorporate dry into wet: Slowly mix dry ingredients into wet mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
  6. Fold in chocolate chips: Add 2 cups chocolate chips evenly throughout the dough.
  7. Chill dough (optional but recommended): Cover bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  8. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
  9. Shape cookies: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion dough balls about 2 tablespoons each. Place 2 inches apart on baking sheet.
  10. Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden brown but centers remain soft.
  11. Immediately after baking, sprinkle flaky sea salt on each warm cookie.
  12. Cool cookies on baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Stir butter constantly when browning to avoid burning. Chilling dough helps cookies hold shape and improves texture. Use parchment or silicone mats to prevent burning bottoms. Sprinkle flaky sea salt immediately after baking for best flavor and texture. Adjust sugar to taste if desired. Variations include adding nuts, caramel bits, dried fruit, or using gluten-free flour or vegan substitutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: brown butter, chocolate chip cookies, flaky sea salt, crispy cookies, chewy cookies, easy cookie recipe, homemade cookies