Name: Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies That Melt in Your Mouth
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 36 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (For a gluten-free option, use a 1:1 flour substitute.); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (Ensure it's fresh for the best rise.); 0.5 teaspoon Salt (Fine sea salt works best.); 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Make sure it's at room temperature for proper creaming.); 1 cup Dark Brown Sugar (You can substitute with light brown sugar but consider adding more molasses.); 2 tablespoons Molasses (If unavailable, treacle or extra brown sugar can work in a pinch.); 1 whole + 1 yolk Eggs (Keep them at room temperature for smooth mixing.); 1 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract (For deeper flavor, replace with vanilla bean paste.); 0.5 cup Granulated Sugar (Adds a sparkling texture to the outside of the cookies.)

As the aroma of cookies dances through my kitchen, I’m reminded of all those cozy evenings spent baking with family. Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that captures the essence of comfort: Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies with Molasses. These delightful treats come together effortlessly and feature a rich, caramel-like flavor that will make your taste buds sing. With crispy edges and soft, fudgy centers, they’re perfect for holiday gatherings or just a sweet indulgence after a long day. Plus, they freeze beautifully, letting you savor homemade goodness anytime you crave it. Ready to learn how to whip up these irresistible cookies? Let’s dive in!

Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible?

Ultimate Delight: These chewy brown sugar cookies combine deep, caramel-like flavors with a soft, fudgy center that simply melts in your mouth.

Effortless Baking: You can whip these up in no time, requiring just a few everyday ingredients and minimal prep time.

Holiday Favorite: Perfect for seasonal celebrations or cozy nights in, they’re sure to impress friends and family alike.

Versatile Indulgence: Feel free to get creative by adding nuts or spices for a personalized touch, or enjoy them as they are.

Make-Ahead Magic: The dough can be pre-rolled and frozen, making it easy to have fresh cookies ready whenever you want! Whether you’re sharing with guests or treating yourself, these Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies are the sweet escape you need.

Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies Ingredients

For the Dough
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; for a gluten-free option, use a 1:1 flour substitute.
• Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent; ensure it’s fresh for the best rise.
• Salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness; fine sea salt works best.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; make sure it’s at room temperature for proper creaming.
• Dark Brown Sugar – Offers a deep, caramel-like sweetness; you can substitute with light brown sugar but consider adding more molasses.
• Molasses – Enriches the flavor complexity; if it’s unavailable, treacle or extra brown sugar can work in a pinch.
• Eggs (1 whole + 1 yolk) – Contributes moisture and thickness; keep them at room temperature for smooth mixing.
• Pure Vanilla Extract – Infuses a sweet, aromatic taste; for a deeper flavor, replace it with vanilla bean paste.

For Rolling
• Granulated Sugar – Adds a sparkling texture to the outside of the cookies; it’s the finishing touch that makes them irresistible.

These Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies are bound to become a cherished recipe in your home, offering the richness and warmth of homemade treats at every bite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C) while you gather your baking supplies. Line three baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent stickiness. This helps create the perfect baking environment for your Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies, ensuring they come out beautifully baked with mini golden edges.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. This step not only combines the ingredients but also aerates the flour, which helps your cookies rise. Set this mixture aside as you move on to preparing the wet ingredients, ensuring your cookies have a delightful texture.

Step 3: Cream the Butter
Using a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat 1 cup of softened unsalted butter on medium speed until creamy, about 1 minute. The butter should appear light and fluffy, which adds richness to your Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies. Take a moment to scrape down the sides of the bowl to incorporate all the butter consistently.

Step 4: Add Sugars and Molasses
Next, add 1 cup of dark brown sugar and 2 tablespoons of molasses to the creamed butter. Mix on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy, giving the cookies their rich flavor. Watch for a smooth, well-combined mixture to indicate that the sugars and molasses are perfectly blended.

Step 5: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla
Now, mix in one whole egg, an additional egg yolk, and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Blend on low speed until just combined, avoiding overmixing to keep the cookies tender. This step enhances the Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies’ depth of flavor, with a warm, inviting aroma filling your kitchen.

Step 6: Blend in the Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients in the mixer. Beat on low speed until just combined, ensuring not to overmix. The dough should be thick and cohesive, ready to form into delicious cookie balls, reflecting the perfect balance of flavors from the brown sugar and molasses.

Step 7: Roll the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or your hands, roll the dough into 1.5 oz (45 g) balls. Next, roll each ball in granulated sugar for a sparkling finish that enhances the exterior texture of your Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies. Place these sugar-coated balls on the prepared baking sheets, ensuring enough space between them for spreading.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Slide the trays into your preheated oven and bake the cookies for 10-11 minutes. Rotate the pans halfway through the baking time to ensure even cooking. The cookies should look puffy and slightly cracked on the surface, indicating they’re ready to come out with perfectly chewy centers.

Step 9: Cool the Cookies
Allow the baked cookies to cool on the pan for 5-10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This resting period helps them set and enhances the chewy texture, making them simply irresistible. Once fully cooled, enjoy your warm, delicious Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies or store them for later delight.

Make Ahead Options

These Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh (this also helps the flavors to deepen). For longer storage, roll the dough into balls and freeze them for up to 3 months; just place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop the frozen balls onto a baking sheet and increase the bake time by a couple of minutes. This way, you’ll have warm, cookies fresh from the oven anytime you crave a sweet treat without any hassle!

Expert Tips for Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients, especially butter and eggs, are at room temperature. This helps achieve a smooth, cohesive dough for chewy brown sugar cookies.

Don’t Overmix: Once you add the flour mixture, mix until just combined. Overmixing can result in tough cookies instead of the desired chewy texture.

Chill the Dough: If time allows, refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes before rolling. This helps the cookies maintain their shape and creates a better texture while baking.

Even Spacing: When placing cookie balls on the baking sheet, leave enough space between them (about 2 inches) to allow for spreading during baking.

Halfway Rotation: Rotate your baking sheets halfway through the baking time for even cooking, ensuring all cookies come out perfectly golden and chewy.

Check for Doneness: Pay attention to the baking time; slightly underbake the cookies for a softer, chewier center. They’ll continue to cook on the baking sheet as they cool.

How to Store and Freeze Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and delicious.

Fridge: If you prefer a chilled treat, these cookies can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just remember to seal them properly to prevent drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once firm, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy them warm, reheat cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 5 minutes. These chewy brown sugar cookies are perfect to satisfy your cravings anytime!

What to Serve with Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies

Indulging in these cookies is a treat, and pairing them thoughtfully can elevate your experience even further.

Rich Hot Chocolate: The creaminess and chocolatey depth of hot cocoa perfectly complement the caramel-like notes of the cookies.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a delightful creaminess, creating a perfect contrast to the chewy cookie texture.
Sweet Coffee: A cup of gently brewed coffee enhances the flavors in your cookies, making each bite even more satisfying.
Creamy Milkshake: This indulgent pairing offers a playful twist as the thick, sweet milkshake beautifully contrasts with the chewy cookie.
Spiced Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea harmonize with the brown sugar and molasses flavors for a cozy, comforting combination.
Fruit Salad: Light and refreshing fruit adds a necessary juiciness and cuts through the richness of the cookies, balancing the meal beautifully.

Each pairing brings a unique texture or flavor to the table, creating a delightful experience that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Enjoy the warmth and cheer of these cookies with your favorite beverage or side, and let the cozy moments unfold!

Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies Variations

Don’t hesitate to get creative with your cookies—explore these inviting twists and swaps that will enhance your baking experience!

Nutty Addition: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch and rich flavor enhancement.
Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or ginger to the dough for a warm, holiday-inspired twist.
Flavorful Shuffle: Swap out half of the dark brown sugar for coconut sugar for a unique, caramel-y taste that’s simply delectable.
Chocolatey Bliss: Throw in some semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a decadent touch that pairs beautifully with the molasses.
Zesty Refresh: Incorporate the zest of an orange or lemon into the dough for a bright, citrusy contrast to the sweetness.
Festive Decor: Roll the cookie balls in colored sugar or sprinkles before baking to give them a cheerful, holiday-ready finish.
Salty Sweet: Top the cookies with a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt after baking to elevate the flavor profile and create an irresistible sweet-salty combo.
Plant-Based Option: To make these cookies vegan, substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil and use a flax egg in place of regular eggs, keeping the texture delightful.

Feeling inspired? Whether you’re trying out the new flavors or adding a personal twist, these Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies can turn into a family favorite in no time!

Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of brown sugar should I use for the best flavor?
I recommend using dark brown sugar for these Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies, as it provides a deeper, caramel-like flavor. If dark brown sugar isn’t available, light brown sugar can be used, but consider adding an extra tablespoon of molasses to maintain that rich taste.

How should I store the cookies for maximum freshness?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Just make sure they’re well-sealed to prevent drying out.

Can I freeze the cookie dough before baking?
Absolutely! To freeze the dough, shape it into 1.5 oz (45 g) balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, then transfer the cookie balls to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to bake, simply pop the frozen dough directly into the oven, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.

What if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies spread excessively, it could be due to using warm butter instead of softened butter. Ensure that your butter is at room temperature for ideal mixing. Additionally, chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking can help prevent spreading, resulting in thicker, chewier cookies.

Are these cookies safe for people with nut allergies?
Yes, these Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies don’t contain any nuts in their basic form. However, if you’re adding nuts like walnuts or pecans as a variation, make sure to clearly label them and keep them separate from any nut-free cookies for safety. Always double-check the ingredients of all additives for allergens.