Creme Brûlée Cookies

If you’re looking for a dessert that combines the rich flavors of classic crème brûlée with the comforting texture of cookies, then these Creme Brûlée Cookies are just what you need! They’re perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a family gathering, celebrating a special event, or simply craving something sweet on a busy weeknight. Each bite is like a warm hug, with chewy, buttery cookies topped with creamy vanilla pastry cream and that delightful caramelized sugar crunch. Trust me; once you try these cookies, they’ll become a favorite in your home!

What makes this recipe even better is how easy it is to whip up. You won’t need any fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients—just your trusty mixing bowl and some love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Unique: These cookies bring together the best of both worlds—soft, chewy cookies topped with rich pastry cream.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will adore these treats! They’re perfect for kids and adults alike.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the pastry cream in advance and assemble the cookies later for quick dessert gratification.
• Impressive Presentation: The caramelized sugar topping gives these cookies a stunning look that’s sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that making these Creme Brûlée Cookies requires simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful treat:

For the Pastry Cream

• 2 1/4 cups (540 ml) whole milk
• 6 egg yolks
• 1 cup + 2 tbsp (225 g) granulated white sugar
• 1/8 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 tbsp vanilla bean paste
• 3 1/2 tbsp (28 g) cornstarch
• 3 tbsp (42 g) unsalted butter, cut in cubes

For the Cookies

• 2 1/2 cups (313 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 1/4 cup (250 g) granulated white sugar
• 1 cup (224 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 egg
• 1 tbsp vanilla bean paste

For Rolling and Topping

• 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated white sugar (for rolling the dough in)
• 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated white sugar (for the brulee topping)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to consider if you’re feeling creative:

• Add Some Spice: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the cookie dough for an extra layer of flavor.
• Chocolate Lovers Unite: Fold in chocolate chips or chunks into the cookie dough for a delicious twist.
• Nutty Goodness: Add chopped nuts like almonds or pecans to give your cookies an added crunch.
• Fruit Infusion: Mix in dried fruits such as cranberries or cherries for a fruity surprise.

How to Make Creme Brûlée Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Pastry Cream

Start by heating the milk in a saucepan over medium heat until it’s steaming but not boiling. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, salt, vanilla bean paste, and cornstarch until smooth. Gradually whisk about half of the hot milk into the yolk mixture to temper it. This step is crucial as it prevents curdling! Then pour everything back into the saucepan and cook until thickened while constantly stirring. Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in the butter until melted. Let it cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

In a large mixing bowl, beat together softened butter and granulated sugar until fluffy. Incorporate an egg and vanilla bean paste until well combined. In another bowl, mix together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients until just combined. Remember not to overmix; we want those cookies soft!

Step 3: Assemble Your Cookies

Once your pastry cream is cool and your cookie dough is ready, it’s time to bring them together! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop out tablespoons of cookie dough and flatten them slightly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Place about a teaspoon of cooled pastry cream in the center of each cookie before folding over the edges to enclose it completely.

Step 4: Roll & Bake

Roll each assembled cookie ball in granulated sugar before placing them back on the baking sheet. Bake for about 9 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges. After baking, let them cool slightly before sprinkling with more granulated sugar for that signature brûlée touch.

Enjoy making these delectable Creme Brûlée Cookies! They are sure to be loved by everyone who tries them!

Pro Tips for Making Creme Brûlée Cookies

Baking is all about precision and a little bit of love. Here are some pro tips to ensure your creme brûlée cookies turn out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh eggs and high-quality vanilla bean paste make a significant difference in flavor. The better your ingredients, the more delicious your cookies will be!
• Chill the dough: Allowing the cookie dough to chill for at least 30 minutes helps prevent spreading during baking. This results in thicker, chewier cookies that hold their shape beautifully.
• Watch the baking time: Every oven is different! Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; they should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture.
• Caramelize sugar carefully: When topping with sugar for the brûlée effect, use a kitchen torch if you have one for even caramelization. If not, broil them in the oven for just a minute or two, watching closely to avoid burning.
• Store properly: To maintain freshness, store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them without the sugar topping and adding it just before serving.

How to Serve Creme Brûlée Cookies

These creme brûlée cookies are delightful on their own but can be elevated with a few special touches. Here are some ideas for serving them that will impress your guests.

Garnishes

• Fresh berries: A handful of raspberries or strawberries adds a pop of color and a tart contrast to the sweet cookies.
• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream provides a luscious, dairy-free alternative that complements the richness of the cookies.
• Mint leaves: A sprig of fresh mint not only looks beautiful but also adds a refreshing aroma that enhances the overall experience.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with these cookies, providing a cool contrast to their warm flavors.
• Fruit salad: A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits can balance out the sweetness and add freshness to your dessert table.
• Chocolate ganache: Drizzling a bit of rich chocolate ganache over these cookies can create an indulgent treat that chocolate lovers will adore.
• Coffee or tea: Serving these cookies alongside a hot cup of coffee or herbal tea creates a cozy atmosphere perfect for enjoying dessert after dinner.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your creme brûlée cookies are sure to be a hit! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Creme Brûlée Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and store them, ensuring you always have a sweet treat on hand.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator where they can last for up to a week.
• If you want to maintain their texture, avoid stacking them directly on top of each other.

Freezing

• Allow the cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container and label with the date. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To enjoy them warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 10-15 seconds, but this may affect their texture slightly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about these delightful Creme Brûlée Cookies.

Can I use different flavors instead of vanilla bean paste in Creme Brûlée Cookies?

Absolutely! You can experiment with other extracts like almond, lemon, or even coconut. Just keep in mind that it will change the overall flavor profile of your cookies.

How do I get the brulee topping just right on my Creme Brûlée Cookies?

To achieve that perfect caramelized sugar crust, sprinkle an even layer of granulated sugar on top of your cooled cookies. Use a kitchen torch to carefully melt and caramelize the sugar until it turns golden brown. If you don’t have a torch, broil them in the oven for just a minute or two—watch closely to avoid burning!

How long does it take to make Creme Brûlée Cookies?

The total time is approximately 119 minutes which includes both preparation and cooking time. With a little patience, you’ll have delicious cookies ready to enjoy!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these wonderful Creme Brûlée Cookies! They are not only delicious but also bring a touch of elegance with their creamy filling and crunchy topping. Whether you’re preparing for a gathering or simply treating yourself, these cookies are sure to impress. Enjoy every bite and happy baking!