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Brown Butter Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

4.7 from 143 reviews

These Brown Butter Oatmeal Cookies are a delightful twist on a classic favorite, featuring rich, nutty browned butter combined with hearty oats for a chewy, flavorful cookie. Enhanced with optional mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts and finished with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, these cookies offer a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and buttery flavors. Perfect for baking enthusiasts looking for a comforting homemade treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Butter and Wet Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter (browned to make 3/4 cup, melted)
  • 1 cup light or dark brown sugar (packed)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups all purpose flour
  • 2 cups old fashioned rolled oats
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp salt

Optional Mix-ins and Topping

  • 1 cup mix-ins (optional; chocolate/white chocolate/butterscotch chips, toffee bits, or nuts)
  • flaky sea salt (optional)

Instructions

  1. Brown the Butter: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter and cook it until it turns golden brown and releases a nutty aroma. Ensure the browned butter measures exactly 3/4 cup and is no longer warm to the touch before incorporating it into the dough.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, old fashioned rolled oats, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined. Set this mixture aside.
  3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk the cooled browned butter with brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture becomes smooth and slightly thickened to a caramel color.
  4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually fold the dry flour and oat mix into the wet ingredients using a rubber spatula. If using optional mix-ins, fold them in just before the flour is fully absorbed for an even distribution.
  5. Chill the Dough: Place the cookie dough uncovered in the refrigerator and chill for about 20 minutes to firm up, making it easier to handle and improving texture.
  6. Prepare for Baking: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
  7. Shape the Cookies: Scoop the chilled dough into large 2-ounce portions or roll into balls. Arrange them a few inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. Gently press each ball down to about 1/2 inch thickness for even cooking.
  8. Chill Remaining Dough: Return any leftover dough to the refrigerator to keep it firm until ready to bake.
  9. Bake the Cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven. Larger cookies should bake for 12-14 minutes, while regular-sized cookies need about 10-12 minutes. Look for a golden brown ring around the edges and a pale, puffed center as signs they are done.
  10. Cool and Serve: Remove the cookies from the oven and sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired. Transfer the cookies to a cooling rack and let them cool for about 15 minutes before serving to allow them to set properly.

Notes

  • Brown butter adds a rich, nutty flavor that makes the cookies stand out.
  • Chilling the dough helps maintain cookie shape and improves texture.
  • Adjust baking time depending on cookie size for desired chewiness or crispness.
  • Optional mix-ins such as chocolate chips or nuts enhance flavor and texture.
  • Flaky sea salt on top balances the sweetness and elevates the overall taste.

Keywords: brown butter oatmeal cookies, chewy oatmeal cookies, homemade oatmeal cookies, browned butter cookies, easy cookie recipe