Name: Chocolate Chip Cookies with Brown Butter and Toffee
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 33 min
Ingredients: 2 cups minus 2 tablespoons cake flour; 1 ⅔ cups bread flour; 1 ¼ teaspoons baking soda; 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder; 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt; 1 ¼ cups unsalted butter, browned and cooled; 1 ¼ cups packed light brown sugar; 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 2 large eggs plus 1 egg yolk room temperature; 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 1 10-ounce bag dark chocolate chips; 1 8-ounce bag Heath Milk Chocolate English Toffee Bits; flaky sea salt

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There’s something magical about the aroma of baking cookies, especially when those cookies are Chocolate Chip Cookies with Brown Butter and Toffee. I remember the first time I tried this decadent twist on a classic. It was a rainy afternoon, and I was in the kitchen seeking comfort. As I melted the butter to a rich golden brown, the nutty fragrance filled the air, instantly making me nostalgic for childhood baking sessions with my mom. She always said that the secret to great cookies was in the little details, and oh boy, she was right. This recipe combines the beloved chocolate flavor with the unique richness of brown butter and the delightful crunch of toffee. Every bite is a warm hug that transports you back to those cozy moments. I dare you to resist the temptation to sneak a warm cookie straight from the oven!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
33 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
18 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
200 kcal

Protein:
2g g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
10g g

Tools Used:
Nordic Ware Aluminum Half Sheet Pans, Pre-Cut Parchment Paper Baking Sheets, Food Scale

The Beauty of This Chocolate Chip Cookies with Brown Butter and Toffee

1. The Perfect Balance of Flavors

One of the reasons that Chocolate Chip Cookies with Brown Butter and Toffee are so special is the unexpected flavor harmony they offer. The deep, nutty essence of brown butter complements the sweetness of chocolate chips and the rich toffee. It doesn’t just taste good; it’s an experience that lingers on your palate.

2. A Crunchy Surprise

The addition of toffee bits introduces a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft, chewy texture of the cookie. Each bite reveals a new layer of taste and texture, making these cookies a step above your average chocolate chip variety.

3. Nostalgic Comfort Food

There’s an emotional connection to baking cookies that brings back fond memories of family gatherings and holidays. With Chocolate Chip Cookies with Brown Butter and Toffee, you’re not just making dessert; you’re creating moments to share and cherish with loved ones.

4. The Art of Brown Butter

Browning butter might seem daunting, but it’s a simple process that elevates your baking. The caramelized milk solids provide a depth of flavor that’s hard to replicate, adding a gourmet touch to your kitchen creations.

5. Versatility at Its Best

This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a sunny picnic, a cozy evening at home, or a celebration. You can serve them warm with a scoop of ice cream or pack them for lunch. They’re a versatile treat that fits seamlessly into all aspects of life.

6. An Easy Make-Ahead Option

Another fantastic aspect of these cookies is the ability to make the dough ahead of time. You can refrigerate it for a few days or even freeze it, allowing you to bake fresh cookies whenever the craving strikes. It’s the ultimate convenience for busy bakers!

Shopping List for Chocolate Chip Cookies with Brown Butter and Toffee

When it comes to baking, the ingredients matter. In this case, the ingredients for Chocolate Chip Cookies with Brown Butter and Toffee not only contribute to flavor but also to texture and aroma. Each component plays a crucial role in bringing the cookie to life, from the buttery richness to the delightful crunch of toffee bits.

2 cups minus 2 tablespoons cake flour: This flour provides a tender texture that’s ideal for cookies.
1 ⅔ cups bread flour: The higher protein content helps create a chewy structure.
1 ¼ teaspoons baking soda: This helps the cookies rise and achieve a soft center.
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder: Adds fluffiness to the cookies.
1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt: Enhances the flavors of the ingredients, especially the chocolate.
1 ¼ cups unsalted butter, browned and cooled: Creates a rich, nutty flavor that sets these cookies apart.
1 ¼ cups packed light brown sugar: Contributes sweetness and moisture.
1 cup plus 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Balances the sweetness and gives a lovely crunch.
2 large eggs plus 1 egg yolk, room temperature: Provide moisture and richness.
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth of flavor.
1 10-ounce bag dark chocolate chips: The star ingredient, ensuring every bite is chocolatey.
1 8-ounce bag Heath Milk Chocolate English Toffee Bits: Adds a sweet crunch that complements the chocolate.
Flaky sea salt: A finishing touch that enhances sweetness and adds flavor contrast.

Recipe Steps for Chocolate Chip Cookies with Brown Butter and Toffee

Are you ready to bake some amazing cookies? Making Chocolate Chip Cookies with Brown Butter and Toffee is a fun journey, and I can’t wait to guide you through it. You’ll start by sifting the dry ingredients, then it’s all about combining the flavors to create a cookie that’s simply irresistible. Let’s get started!

Sift together the cake flour, bread flour, baking soda, baking powder, and kosher salt into a bowl. This step ensures that there are no lumps and that the leavening agents are evenly distributed. Set aside.
In a separate bowl, using a mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, combine the cooled brown butter and both sugars, mixing at medium speed for about three minutes. You should see the mixture become light and fluffy, and the delightful aroma of the brown butter will fill your kitchen.
Add the eggs and the additional egg yolk, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This ensures that the eggs are fully incorporated, contributing to the cookies’ texture and richness.
Stir in the vanilla extract, letting the warm, comforting flavor meld with the butter and sugars. This is where the magic starts to happen. Mix until everything is well combined.
Reduce the mixer speed to low and gradually add the sifted dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a soft dough. This step should only take about 5 to 10 seconds.
Now it’s time to add the dark chocolate chips and Heath Milk Chocolate English Toffee Bits. Gently mix until they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough, creating a tempting cookie mixture.
To ensure the best texture, press plastic wrap against the dough and refrigerate for 24 to 36 hours. This resting period allows the flavors to develop and the dough to firm up, resulting in cookies that are truly delightful.
When you’re ready to bake, remove the dough from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to 1 hour. This will make it easier to scoop.
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring that the cookies won’t stick.
Scoop dough balls of approximately 3 ounces each and place them onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a few inches between each cookie for spreading. The anticipation will build as you watch the dough transform in the oven!
Bake in the preheated oven for 16 to 18 minutes, or until they are golden brown but still soft in the center. If you want to take it up a notch, sprinkle some flaky sea salt on top right after they come out of the oven.
Transfer the baking sheet to a wire rack for about 10 minutes, allowing the cookies to set before moving them to another rack to cool completely. Repeat this process with any remaining dough, or save it for later baking!

Things Worth Knowing

Measuring Flour: Make sure to measure flour correctly by spooning it into your measuring cup and leveling it off. This prevents dense cookies.
Browning Butter: To brown butter, melt it slowly in a saucepan until it turns golden brown and smells nutty. Watch closely to avoid burning!
Chilling the Dough: Chilling the cookie dough enhances flavor and texture and helps prevent spreading during baking.
Cookie Size: For larger cookies, aim for 4-ounce scoops, adjusting baking time as needed for a little longer.
Storing Dough: You can freeze the dough for up to three months. Just scoop them into balls, freeze, and then transfer to a zip-top bag.

How to Switch It Up

If you’re looking to put a spin on your Chocolate Chip Cookies with Brown Butter and Toffee, here are some ideas to inspire your creativity:

Experiment with Chocolates: Try using a mix of dark, milk, and white chocolate chips for a varied flavor profile.
Nutty Goodness: Add chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
Spice It Up: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or a drop of almond extract to create a unique taste.
Different Sugars: Consider using brown sugar varieties, like dark brown sugar, to enhance the caramel flavor.
Seasonal Flavors: During the fall, add a pinch of pumpkin spice or during the holidays, try peppermint extract for a festive touch.
Cookie Sandwiches: Use these cookies as a base for ice cream sandwiches by adding a scoop of your favorite ice cream in between.

Serving Suggestions

Wondering how to serve your freshly baked Chocolate Chip Cookies with Brown Butter and Toffee? Here are some delightful ideas:

Freshly Baked with Milk: Serve warm cookies alongside a tall glass of cold milk for the ultimate comfort pairing.
Ice Cream Treats: Add a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream on top for a delicious dessert.
Great for Parties: These cookies are perfect for parties or gatherings, offering a sweet treat that everyone will enjoy.
Gift-Worthy: Package them in a beautiful box to gift to friends and family during special occasions.
Seasonal Occasions: They make a wonderful addition to holiday celebrations, complementing any festive table.
Perfect for Lunchboxes: Pack them in lunchboxes for a sweet surprise that kids will love at school.
Storing Leftovers: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container for up to one week, or freeze them for longer storage.

FAQ

Using margarine in place of butter can alter the flavor and texture of your Chocolate Chip Cookies with Brown Butter and Toffee. While margarine can work in a pinch, it doesn’t have the same rich taste as browned butter. For best results, I highly recommend sticking with unsalted butter for that deep, nutty flavor.

The best way to tell if your Chocolate Chip Cookies with Brown Butter and Toffee are done baking is to look for a golden brown color around the edges while the center should still look slightly soft. They will firm up as they cool. If you prefer a chewier texture, you can even take them out a minute or two early. Remember to check often, as ovens can vary in temperature!

Absolutely! Freezing the cookie dough is a fantastic way to ensure you always have freshly baked cookies on hand. You can scoop the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer the frozen dough balls into a zip-top bag. They can be kept in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to bake, just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time!

If you find yourself without cake flour, don’t worry! You can create a substitute by measuring out one cup of all-purpose flour and removing two tablespoons. Then, add two tablespoons of cornstarch to the all-purpose flour to mimic the light texture of cake flour. This can help achieve similar results in your Chocolate Chip Cookies with Brown Butter and Toffee.

Conclusion

These Chocolate Chip Cookies with Brown Butter and Toffee are not just another cookie recipe; they are a delightful blend of flavors and textures that promise to elevate your baking game. With their rich, nutty taste and satisfying crunch, they bring warmth to any occasion. I encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy the satisfaction of creating something so delicious. You’ll find that sharing them with friends or family makes them even more special. Happy baking!