Indulge in the delectable taste of Brown Butter Cinnamon Crinkle Cookies, where the richness of brown butter melds with the warm spice of cinnamon. Perfect for cozy gatherings or a solo treat!
There's something truly magical about the aroma of cinnamon and brown butter that fills the house during the holiday season. These Brown Butter Cinnamon Crinkle Cookies come from a cherished family recipe that has been tweaked and perfected over the years. Each cookie, with its distinctive crinkles and dusting of powdered sugar, holds a piece of childhood nostalgia for me. It's not just a cookie; it's a warm, comforting hug from the past. The ritual of baking these cookies has become a heartfelt tradition in our family, bringing joy and a sense of togetherness each time we gather in the kitchen.
Why You'll Love These Brown Butter Cinnamon Crinkle Cookies
The charm of the Brown Butter Cinnamon Crinkle Cookies lies in their simple yet irresistible combination of flavors and textures. Here are some points that make this recipe stand out:
- Brown Butter Alchemy: Transforming butter into its browned version enhances these cookies with a deep, nutty flavor that is truly unparalleled.
- Cinnamon Warmth: The addition of ground cinnamon infuses each cookie with a spicy warmth, making them perfect for chilly evenings.
- Crinkle Perfection: The crinkly tops not only create a visually appealing texture but also ensure that each bite is as satisfying as the last.
- Easy and Quick: With a total time of just 30 minutes, these cookies are both simple to make and a delight to eat.
Ingredients Notes
When crafting your batch of Brown Butter Cinnamon Crinkle Cookies, paying attention to the ingredients can elevate the flavors to new heights:
- Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness in the recipe, which is key when using salt as a flavor enhancer.
- Quality of Cinnamon: Opt for a high-quality ground cinnamon as it’s the flavor backbone of your cookies.
- Chill the Dough: Don't rush the chilling process; it's essential for developing the flavors and achieving the perfect texture.
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How To Make Brown Butter Cinnamon Crinkle Cookies
Let's break down the recipe into easy-to-follow steps:
- Step 1: Brown the Butter. Start by melting your butter over medium heat until it begins to foam and brown flecks appear. This step is crucial as it develops the rich, nutty flavor that is signature to these cookies.
- Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients. In a separate bowl, whisk together your flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. This mixture will be added to your wet ingredients later.
- Step 3: Mix Butter and Sugars. Once your butter is browned and slightly cooled, mix it with both granulated and brown sugars until well combined.
- Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla. Incorporate the eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla, ensuring each is fully integrated into the batter.
- Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients. Gradually add your dry ingredients to the mixture, mixing until just combined to avoid overworking the dough.
- Step 6: Chill and Preheat. Chill the dough for an hour to firm up, which makes handling easier and also enhances the flavor. Preheat your oven in preparation for baking.
- Step 7: Shape and Sugar. Once chilled, roll the dough into balls and coat each in powdered sugar for that signature crinkle look.
- Step 8: Bake to Perfection. Space the dough balls on your baking sheet and bake until just set, allowing them to cool on the sheet to firm up.
Storage Options
These Brown Butter Cinnamon Crinkle Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, ensuring they stay fresh and delicious. For longer storage, they can be frozen for up to three months, wrapped individually or layered with parchment in a freezer-safe container.
Variations and Substitutions
This cookie recipe is delightful as is, but here are some creative twists you can try:
- Alternative Sugars: Swap out light brown sugar for dark brown for a deeper molasses flavor.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom along with the cinnamon to bring a new layer of spice to the cookies.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend if you're catering to dietary restrictions.
- Vegan Adaptation: Substitute the butter with a plant-based version and use egg replacements to cater to vegan diets.
With these details, you’re all set to create a batch of Brown Butter Cinnamon Crinkle Cookies that are sure to impress!
Brown Butter Cinnamon Crinkle Cookies
Ingredients
- 10 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 2 and ½ cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon of salt
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- ¼ cup of light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract
- ½ cup of powdered sugar for coating
Instructions
- Prepare the Butter: Place the butter in a small saucepan and melt over medium heat. Continue to cook, swirling the saucepan occasionally, until the butter begins to foam and brown specks form, emitting a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the cooled brown butter and both sugars. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is well combined and appears creamy, approximately 2-3 minutes.
- Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add the vanilla extract and mix until uniformly blended.
- Combine with Dry Ingredients: Reduce the mixer speed to low and gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until the dough is smooth and evenly combined. Do not overmix.
- Chill the Dough: Transfer the dough to a suitable container and refrigerate for approximately one hour, or until firm.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare for Baking: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (177 degrees Celsius). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Form Cookies: Using a medium-sized cookie scoop or two spoons, form the dough into balls. Roll each ball in powdered sugar until completely coated. Arrange the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spaced about 2-3 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are just set and crinkly on top.
- Cool: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
