Print

Cozy Soft Frosted Brown Butter Sugar Cookies

soft frosted brown butter sugar cookies - featured image

These soft, rich sugar cookies feature a unique brown butter twist and a sweet, spreadable frosting, perfect for back-to-school snacks or cozy afternoons.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, browned
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • ½ cup (100g) light brown sugar, packed
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar for frosting
  • ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened for frosting
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) whole milk or cream
  • Optional: food coloring or sprinkles

Instructions

  1. Place 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter in a medium light-colored saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon or heatproof spatula. After 5–7 minutes, the butter will foam, then turn golden brown with a nutty aroma. Watch carefully to avoid burning. Remove from heat and transfer to a heatproof bowl to cool slightly (about 10 minutes).
  2. In a large bowl, combine 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar and ½ cup (100g) light brown sugar. Add the slightly cooled browned butter and whisk until smooth and combined. Beat in 2 large eggs, one at a time, then stir in 2 teaspoons vanilla extract.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies soft.
  4. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
  5. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
  6. Scoop dough using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, rolling into balls about 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place 2 inches (5 cm) apart on the prepared sheets.
  7. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden but centers remain soft. Don’t overbake — the cookies will firm up as they cool.
  8. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
  9. In a medium bowl, beat ½ cup (113g) softened unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar, mixing well. Add 2 tablespoons (30ml) milk or cream, and beat until smooth and spreadable. Add vanilla or optional flavorings if desired.
  10. Spread frosting on cooled cookies using a spatula or knife. Add sprinkles or food coloring if you like. Let the frosting set for 15–20 minutes before serving or storing.

Notes

Stay by the stove and stir constantly when browning butter to avoid burning. Chill dough for at least 30 minutes to control spreading. Watch baking time closely to keep cookies soft. Adjust frosting consistency by adding milk or powdered sugar as needed. Frosting can be chilled briefly if too soft to spread.

Nutrition

Keywords: brown butter sugar cookies, soft sugar cookies, frosted cookies, back-to-school recipe, easy cookies, cozy snacks