Creme Brûlée Cookies

These Creme Brûlée Cookies are an irresistible treat that combines the classic flavors of crème brûlée into delightful cookie form. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies feature a chewy, buttery base topped with rich vanilla pastry cream and a satisfying layer of caramelized sugar. They are not just cookies; they are an experience that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: Each bite delivers the beloved taste of crème brûlée, making these cookies a standout dessert.
• Simple Preparation: The recipe breaks down easily, ensuring even novice bakers can create these delicious treats.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or as a sweet end to a dinner—these cookies fit any occasion.
• Fun Cooking Technique: The torching process adds a fun element to baking that both kids and adults will enjoy.
• Stunning Presentation: With their creamy topping and caramelized finish, these cookies look as good as they taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, gather the essential tools to make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable. Having the right equipment at hand will help ensure that your cookies turn out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or electric mixer
• Medium saucepan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Piping bag with a small circular tip
• Kitchen torch
• Cookie sheets
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or electric mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugar effortless, ensuring a light and fluffy texture in your cookies.
• Piping bag: Allows for easy and precise application of the pastry cream on top of each cookie for beautiful presentation.
• Kitchen torch: A must-have for achieving that perfect caramelized sugar topping, giving your cookies an authentic crème brûlée finish.

Ingredients

These are the best creme brûlée cookies! They are chewy, buttery, soft sugar cookies with rich and creamy vanilla pastry cream topped with caramelized sugar.

• 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
• 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
• 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)

How to Make Creme Brûlée Cookies

Step 1: Make the Vanilla Pastry Cream

1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium-low heat just until it’s steaming. Turn heat down to low until ready to use.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, salt, vanilla bean paste, and cornstarch until combined and pale-yellow in color.
3. Add in about one-fourth of the heated milk while stirring vigorously. Then add the rest of the milk and stir until well combined.
4. Transfer this mixture back to the saucepan. Cook over medium-low heat for about 8–12 minutes while whisking continuously until thickened with soft peaks forming.
5. Remove from heat and transfer to a bowl. Stir in butter until fully combined. Cover with plastic wrap directly on top to avoid skin formation. Chill in the fridge until completely cold.

Step 2: Prepare the Sugar Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside.
3. In another large bowl, cream together softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on high speed for about two minutes until fluffy.
4. Add in egg and vanilla bean paste; mix on medium speed for another minute or two until pale and fluffy.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients into wet mixture; mix on low speed just until dough comes together.
6. Using a large cookie scoop, scoop dough into balls then roll each ball in granulated sugar before placing them onto parchment-lined sheets.
7. Slightly flatten each ball before baking six at a time for about 9–10 minutes. Let cool on baking sheet for five minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.

Step 3: Assemble Your Cookies

1. Once cooled, transfer pastry cream into a piping bag fitted with a small circular tip.
2. Pipe creamy pastry filling onto each cookie generously.
3. Sprinkle approximately one teaspoon of granulated sugar over each filled cookie then use a kitchen torch to caramelize until golden brown—creating that classic crème brûlée effect!
4. Allow cooling for ten minutes after torching before serving immediately for maximum freshness.

Enjoy making these delightful Creme Brûlée Cookies, which are sure to become a favorite among friends and family!

How to Serve Creme Brûlée Cookies

These delicious Creme Brûlée Cookies can be served in various ways to enhance their unique flavor and texture. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that will make your cookies even more enjoyable.

With Fresh Berries

• Adding a mix of fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy pastry cream.

A Scoop of Ice Cream

• Pairing the cookies with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream creates a luscious dessert that balances warmth and coolness.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• A light drizzle of melted chocolate sauce adds an indulgent touch that complements the sweetness of the cookies.

Accompanied by Whipped Cream

• Serve the cookies with a dollop of whipped cream for a fluffy and creamy addition that enhances the overall experience.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange several cookies on a beautiful platter alongside other sweet treats for an eye-catching dessert centerpiece at gatherings.

How to Perfect Creme Brûlée Cookies

Perfecting your Creme Brûlée Cookies is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out just right.

• Chill the Pastry Cream: Make sure the pastry cream is completely chilled before piping it onto the cookies. This helps maintain its shape and texture.

• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking. Remove them when they are just set but still soft in the center for a chewy texture.

• Use Quality Ingredients: High-quality vanilla bean paste elevates the flavor of both the pastry cream and cookies. Always opt for pure ingredients when possible.

• Allow Cooling Time: Letting your baked cookies cool completely before adding pastry cream prevents them from getting soggy.

• Control Sugar for Brûlée: Use an even layer of sugar on top before torching to achieve that perfect caramelized crust without burning it.

Best Side Dishes for Creme Brûlée Cookies

Complementing your Creme Brûlée Cookies with side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some fantastic options that pair well with these sweet treats.

1. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits can add freshness and balance out the sweetness of the cookies.

2. Chocolate Fondue: Rich chocolate fondue allows guests to dip their cookies, creating a fun interactive dessert experience.

3. Coffee or Espresso: A cup of coffee or espresso offers a nice contrast to the sweetness and enhances flavors, making it a perfect pairing.

4. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or mascarpone for an elegant twist that adds savory notes to your dessert table.

5. Custard Cups: Individual cups of vanilla custard provide additional creamy richness alongside your Creme Brûlée Cookies.

6. Mini Tarts: Serve mini fruit or chocolate tarts as alternative desserts, providing variety while complementing the cookie’s flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creme Brûlée Cookies, it’s easy to make simple errors that can affect the final outcome. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Boldly measure ingredients: Using incorrect measurements can lead to a failed cookie. Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for accuracy.
• Dare not skip chilling: Not chilling the pastry cream can result in a runny texture. Make sure to chill until completely cold for the best results.
• Ignore baking times: Overbaking cookies can make them hard instead of chewy. Keep an eye on them and remove them when they’re just golden.
• Forget about cooling: Applying pastry cream too early can cause soggy cookies. Allow cookies to cool completely before adding the cream.
• Neglect rolling in sugar: Skipping the sugar coating means missing out on that signature caramelized top. Don’t forget this step for a perfect finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooled cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezing Creme Brûlée Cookies

• You can freeze unfilled cookies for up to 2 months.
• Use freezer bags or airtight containers to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Creme Brûlée Cookies

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-7 minutes for a fresh taste.
• Microwave: Heat on low power for 10-15 seconds, but be cautious as this may soften them too much.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering it briefly to warm without drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Creme Brûlée Cookies, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I use other flavors in my Creme Brûlée Cookies?

Yes, you can experiment with different flavors like chocolate or coffee by adding extracts or cocoa powder.

How do I achieve the perfect sugar crust on top?

To get that perfect caramelized crust, sprinkle sugar evenly and use a kitchen torch until golden brown.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.

What makes these cookies different from regular sugar cookies?

The addition of creamy pastry filling and caramelized topping sets these apart, giving them their unique flavor.

How long do these cookies last after baking?

Once filled, they are best enjoyed within a few hours, but unfilled cookies can last up to 3 days refrigerated.

Final Thoughts

These Creme Brûlée Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile! Feel free to customize them with your favorite flavors or toppings. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them at home, they offer a delightful twist on classic cookies that everyone will love!