Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
These Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe are a delightful treat that brings warmth and sweetness to any occasion. With their soft and chewy texture, cozy spices, and the finishing touch of a sweet vanilla glaze, they quickly become a favorite. Perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy evenings at home, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, these cookies stand out with their unique flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of brown butter and warming spices creates a comforting taste that’s perfect for any season.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, baking these cookies is a breeze for both beginners and seasoned bakers.
- Versatile Treat: These cookies are perfect for holiday parties, gift-giving, or just enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee.
- Beautiful Presentation: The iced finish makes them visually appealing, making them a great addition to your dessert table.
- Batch Friendly: This recipe yields 24 cookies, allowing you to share or store them for later enjoyment.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the baking process, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes allows you to mix dry and wet ingredients separately without hassle.
- Baking sheets: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even cooking and prevents warping in the oven.
- Parchment paper: This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier after baking.
Ingredients
These brown butter iced oatmeal cookies are perfectly soft and chewy, filled with cozy spice flavor and covered in a sweet vanilla glaze. As pretty as they are delicious, these are a holiday favorite year after year!
For the Cookies
- 1 1/4 cups (282 g) unsalted butter
- 2 cups (190 g) old fashioned oats
- 2 cups, plus 4 tablespoons (280 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 cup (200 g) light brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla
- 2 tablespoons molasses (not blackstrap)
For the Icing
- 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla
How to Make Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Butter
Start by melting the unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently until it turns golden brown and releases a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
1. Old fashioned oats
2. All-purpose flour
3. Baking soda
4. Ground cinnamon
5. Ground nutmeg
6. Salt
Whisk together until well mixed.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together:
1. Light brown sugar
2. Granulated sugar
3. Eggs
4. Vanilla
5. Molasses
Add the slightly cooled brown butter to this mixture.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture while stirring until fully incorporated.
Step 5: Bake the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the sheets about two inches apart. Bake for 10 minutes or until golden around the edges but still soft in the center.
Step 6: Cool and Ice
Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Once completely cool, prepare the icing by whisking together powdered sugar, milk or cream, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cookies before serving.
Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies!
How to Serve Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
These delightful brown butter iced oatmeal cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon treat, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.
With a Glass of Milk
- A classic pairing that never goes out of style. The creaminess of milk complements the chewy texture and sweet glaze perfectly.
As a Dessert Platter
- Arrange these cookies on a beautiful platter alongside other treats like brownies and bars. This makes for an eye-catching dessert table at parties.
Topped with Ice Cream
- Serve warm cookies topped with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream. The combination of warm and cold is simply irresistible!
With Coffee or Tea
- Enjoy these cookies with your favorite hot beverage. The spices in the cookies pair wonderfully with the rich flavors of coffee or tea.
Wrapped as Gifts
- These cookies make fantastic gifts! Package them in decorative boxes or bags to share the joy with friends and family.
At Holiday Gatherings
- Bring these cookies to holiday events for a festive treat. Their beautiful icing and cozy flavor will be a hit with everyone.
How to Perfect Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
To ensure your brown butter iced oatmeal cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
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Brown the Butter Carefully: Watch the butter closely while browning it. It should be golden brown and have a nutty aroma, but avoid burning it for the best flavor.
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Use Room Temperature Eggs: This helps incorporate air into the dough, leading to softer cookies. Ensure your eggs sit out for about 30 minutes before mixing.
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Sift Your Dry Ingredients: Sifting flour and powdered sugar prevents lumps and ensures even distribution throughout the dough, resulting in smoother icing.
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Let Cookies Cool Completely: Allow the baked cookies to cool completely before icing them. This helps prevent the icing from melting off and maintains its shape.
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Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. Adding more cinnamon or even a pinch of cloves can elevate the flavor profile.
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Store Properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, ensuring they stay soft and fresh.
Best Side Dishes for Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your brown butter iced oatmeal cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:
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Chilled Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds a bright contrast to the rich flavors of the cookies.
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Cheese Board: Include varieties like brie or cheddar. The savory notes balance nicely with the sweetness of the cookies.
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Hot Chocolate: A steaming cup of rich hot chocolate is perfect for dunking these delicious treats on chilly days.
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Nut Mix: A simple bowl of mixed nuts provides crunch and savory accents that pair beautifully with sweet desserts.
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Spiced Tea: Offer a warm spiced tea that resonates with the cozy flavors found in these oatmeal cookies, enhancing their appeal.
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Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a balanced treat that complements the sweetness without overpowering it.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over each cookie for an indulgent twist that chocolate lovers will adore.
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Ice Cream Sundae Bar: Set up a sundae station where guests can top their scoops with crumbled cookie pieces, creating delightful combinations!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking is a science, and sometimes small mistakes can lead to big issues with your cookies. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid when making the Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe:
- Overbaking the cookies: This can lead to dry cookies instead of soft and chewy ones. Keep an eye on them in the oven and remove them as soon as the edges are lightly golden.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using too much or too little of an ingredient can change the texture. Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for flour.
- Skipping chilling time: If you skip chilling the dough, your cookies may spread too much while baking. Chill your dough for at least 30 minutes before scooping onto the baking sheet.
- Using cold eggs: Cold ingredients can affect how well they mix. Make sure your eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation into the dough.
- Ignoring ingredient quality: The type of butter and sugars used can significantly affect flavor. Opt for high-quality unsalted butter and fresh spices for the best taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.
Freezing Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
- Freeze unglazed cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.
- You can also freeze baked cookies, but it’s best to glaze them after thawing.
Reheating Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the cookies for about 5-7 minutes until soft.
- Microwave: Heat individual cookies on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat!
- Stovetop: Place a cookie in a pan over low heat with a lid on for about 1 minute, just until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re curious about making this recipe, here are some common questions:
Can I make these Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.
How do I make brown butter?
To make brown butter, melt unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring until it becomes golden brown and has a nutty aroma.
Can I add mix-ins to the cookies?
Absolutely! Consider adding chocolate chips, raisins, or nuts for extra flavor and texture in your Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe.
How long will these cookies stay fresh?
When stored properly, these cookies remain fresh for up to one week in the refrigerator or three months in the freezer.
Final Thoughts
These Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies are not just delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with various spices or add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips. Their soft and chewy texture paired with a sweet glaze makes them perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try; you’ll be delighted by how easy it is to create such comforting treats!
Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies. These delightful treats feature a soft and chewy texture enriched with cozy spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, all complemented by a sweet vanilla glaze that adds a perfect finishing touch. Ideal for holiday gatherings or a cozy night in, these cookies are sure to satisfy your sweet cravings while impressing family and friends with their unique flavor profile.
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups (282 g) unsalted butter
- 2 cups (190 g) old fashioned oats
- 2 cups, plus 4 tablespoons (280 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 cup (200 g) light brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla
- 2 tablespoons molasses (not blackstrap)
- 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla
Instructions
- Brown the unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat until golden brown and nutty. Let it cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, whisk together oats, flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla, and molasses; mix in the cooled brown butter.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until fully incorporated.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto sheets and bake for 10 minutes or until edges are golden.
- Allow cookies to cool before drizzling with icing made from powdered sugar, milk/cream, and vanilla.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
