Creme Brûlée Cookies

Recipe By:

Juniper

Posted:

September 20, 2025

Updated:

September 20, 2025

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These Creme Brûlée Cookies are the perfect blend of chewy and buttery goodness. With a rich vanilla pastry cream center and a satisfying caramelized sugar topping, they’re sure to impress at any gathering. Whether for a celebration or just a sweet treat at home, these cookies stand out with their unique flavors and delightful texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Irresistible Flavor: The combination of buttery cookies with creamy vanilla filling delivers a taste that’s hard to resist.
Versatile Treat: Perfect for parties, holidays, or simply as a special dessert for your family.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up these delicious cookies without hassle.
Chewy Texture: Enjoy the soft and chewy consistency that makes each bite a delight.
Customizable: Feel free to experiment with flavors by adding your favorite extracts or toppings!

Tools and Preparation

To make these delicious Creme Brûlée Cookies, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Whisk
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients evenly without spills.
Baking sheet: A good-quality baking sheet helps distribute heat evenly for perfectly baked cookies.
Cooling rack: Using a cooling rack prevents moisture buildup, ensuring your cookies stay crisp.

Ingredients

For the Vanilla 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
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: Prepare the Vanilla Pastry Cream

Start by heating the whole milk in a saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, granulated sugar, salt, vanilla bean paste, and cornstarch until smooth.
Gradually pour the hot milk into the egg mixture while whisking continuously to temper the eggs.
Return this mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat until it thickens. Stir constantly to prevent sticking.
Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in cubed butter until melted. Let it cool before using.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add in the egg and vanilla bean paste; mix until combined.
In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients until just combined.
Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes for easier handling.

Step 3: Form and Bake Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper.

Scoop tablespoons of chilled dough and form into balls.
Roll each ball in granulated sugar before placing them on prepared baking sheets about two inches apart.
Bake for about 9 minutes or until edges are lightly golden but centers remain soft.

Step 4: Assemble Cookies

Once cookies have cooled slightly:

Use a piping bag to fill each cookie with cooled pastry cream.
Top with additional granulated sugar for bruleeing.
Using a kitchen torch or broiler briefly caramelize the top until golden brown.

Enjoy your delightful homemade Creme Brûlée Cookies!

How to Serve Creme Brûlée Cookies

Creme brûlée cookies are delightful on their own, but serving them with the right accompaniments can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some creative ideas to enjoy these delicious treats.

Pair with Fresh Fruits

Berries: Serve with a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a refreshing contrast.
Sliced Peaches: The sweetness of peaches complements the creamy flavor of the cookies.

Enjoy with Coffee or Tea

Espresso: A shot of espresso pairs wonderfully, balancing the sweetness of the cookies.
Herbal Tea: Choose a calming herbal tea for a soothing combination that enhances the cookie’s flavors.

Create an Ice Cream Sandwich

Vanilla Ice Cream: Place a scoop of vanilla ice cream between two cookies for a decadent treat.
Fruit Sorbet: Use fruit sorbet for a lighter option that adds a burst of flavor.

Garnish with Whipped Cream

Freshly Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream on top can add extra richness and texture to each bite.

How to Perfect Creme Brûlée Cookies

Achieving the perfect creme brûlée cookies requires attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out amazing every time.

Bold Chilling Time: Chill your dough before baking. This helps maintain shape and enhances texture.
Bold Use Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality vanilla bean paste for richer flavor and aroma.
Bold Accurate Measurements: Measure ingredients precisely. Consistency in measurements leads to better results.
Bold Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking. They should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center.
Bold Experiment with Toppings: Try different toppings like caramel sauce or chocolate drizzle for added flair.

Best Side Dishes for Creme Brûlée Cookies

To complement the rich flavors of creme brûlée cookies, consider serving them alongside these delightful side dishes. Each offers a unique taste profile that enhances your dessert experience.

Bold Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette can balance the sweetness of the cookies.
Bold Fruit Compote: Serve with a warm fruit compote made from seasonal fruits for a sweet-tart pairing.
Bold Chocolate Fondue: Offer melted chocolate for dipping; it adds an indulgent touch that chocolate lovers will appreciate.
Bold Lemon Sorbet: The bright citrus notes refresh the palate after enjoying rich cookies.
Bold Cinnamon Sugar Pita Chips: Crunchy pita chips coated in cinnamon sugar provide an interesting texture contrast.
Bold Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and airy coconut whipped cream adds tropical notes while keeping things dairy-free.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creme Brûlée Cookies, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are mistakes to watch out for:

Incorrect Measuring: Always use the right measuring technique for flour and sugar. Spoon flour into the cup and level it off with a knife for accuracy.
Overmixing Dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Mix until ingredients just come together for soft, chewy results.
Ignoring Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is preheated properly. An inaccurate temperature can alter baking times and texture.
Not Chilling the Dough: Chilling helps solidify the butter, leading to better cookie shape and texture. Don’t skip this crucial step!
Using Cold Ingredients: Ensure that your butter and eggs are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth dough that bakes evenly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store cookies in an airtight container.
They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creme Brûlée Cookies

Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen.
Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container; they can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Creme Brûlée Cookies

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds.
Stovetop: Cover a skillet over low heat and place the cookies inside for about 2-3 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Creme Brûlée Cookies:

Can I make Creme Brûlée Cookies gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Just ensure it’s formulated for baking.

How do I achieve the perfect brulee topping?

Sprinkle an even layer of sugar on top of each cookie before caramelizing. Use a kitchen torch for best results!

What variations can I try with Creme Brûlée Cookies?

Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or citrus zest for different flavors while maintaining the base recipe.

How long do these cookies stay fresh?

When stored properly, they remain fresh in the refrigerator for up to five days or three months if frozen.

Final Thoughts

These Creme Brûlée Cookies are an irresistible dessert that combines chewy textures with creamy flavors. Their versatility allows you to customize them based on your taste preferences—add mix-ins like chocolate chips or fruit zest! Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress family and friends alike.