These chewy brown sugar cookies are perfectly soft, thick, and brimming with a deep, molasses-like flavor. They’re a simple yet indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a quick dessert fix, or a cozy evening snack.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how simple this recipe is while delivering incredible flavor. The brown sugar gives these cookies a rich, caramelized taste, while their soft and chewy texture makes them irresistible. The dough comes together quickly, and the sugar coating adds a touch of sparkle and crunch. Plus, there’s room to get creative with add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark)
3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling the cookies)
Directions
Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Cream the Butter and Sugar:
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
Add the Egg and Vanilla:
Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Roll the Dough:
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Roll each ball in granulated sugar until fully coated.
Bake:
Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers look slightly underdone.
Cool and Serve:
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Servings and Timing
Servings: Approximately 18-20 cookies
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
Add chocolate chips for a gooey twist.
Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon into the dough for a warm, spiced flavor.
Mix in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
Substitute half of the brown sugar with dark brown sugar for a deeper molasses flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to enjoy them warm, reheat in a microwave for 10-15 seconds. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a sealed bag for up to three months; thaw at room temperature before serving.
Related Recipes:
FAQs
How do I keep the cookies chewy?
Avoid overbaking! The centers should look slightly underdone when you remove them from the oven, as they will continue to cook while cooling.
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to 1/4 teaspoon to balance the flavors.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely. Refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours or freeze it for up to three months. Thaw frozen dough balls before baking.
What type of brown sugar should I use?
You can use either light or dark brown sugar. Dark brown sugar will give a more pronounced molasses flavor.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, this recipe doubles well. Make sure to divide the dough into smaller batches for easier mixing.
Conclusion
These chewy brown sugar cookies are an easy-to-make treat that will quickly become a household favorite. With their rich flavor, soft texture, and endless customization possibilities, they’re perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or saved for later, these cookies are always a crowd-pleaser.
📖 Recipe:
Print
Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 18-20 cookies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These chewy brown sugar cookies are soft, thick, and loaded with a deep molasses flavor. Perfect for family gatherings, quick dessert cravings, or cozy evenings, this easy-to-make treat is sure to be a favorite.
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark)
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. - Mix Dry Ingredients
Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside. - Cream Butter and Sugar
Beat softened butter and brown sugar in a large bowl with an electric mixer until light and fluffy (2-3 minutes). - Add Egg and Vanilla
Mix in egg and vanilla extract until well incorporated. - Combine Ingredients
Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing. - Roll the Dough
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough, roll into balls, and coat with granulated sugar. - Bake
Place dough balls on the prepared sheet, spaced 2 inches apart. Bake for 8-10 minutes, until edges are golden and centers appear slightly underdone. - Cool and Serve
Cool cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
For a richer flavor, use dark brown sugar or a mix of light and dark brown sugar.
Customize with add-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Avoid overbaking to ensure a soft and chewy texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 18-20 cookies
