Crème Brûlée Cookies

These delightful Crème Brûlée Cookies combine the classic flavors of crème brûlée into a fun and bite-sized treat. With a soft sugar cookie base, creamy pastry cream filling, and a perfectly caramelized sugar topping, they are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or just satisfying your sweet tooth, these cookies will impress with their rich flavor and unique texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of rich vanilla and creamy textures makes every bite a delight.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can achieve great results.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for parties, gatherings, or simply as a special treat at home.
• Gourmet Appeal: These cookies look fancy but are simple to prepare, making them an impressive addition to any dessert table.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Crème Brûlée Cookies, you’ll need some essential tools that streamline the process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without spilling or losing any.
• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking cookies to perfection.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.

Ingredients

These irresistible crème brûlée cookies have a gooey, soft sugar cookie base topped with a creamy pastry cream and then finished with a crispy caramelized sugar topping. They’re a cookie lover’s dream come true!

For the Cookie Base

• 225 g Unsalted butter (at room temperature)
• 250 g Granulated sugar
• 1 Egg (at room temperature)
• 1 Egg yolk (at room temperature)
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
• 310 g All purpose flour
• 1½ teaspoon Baking soda
• 1 teaspoon Salt

For the Cream Filling

• 500 g Whole milk (3% fat)
• 100 g Granulated sugar
• 80 g Egg yolk (approx. yolk of 4-5 eggs)
• 25 g Corn starch
• 25 g All purpose flour
• 2 teaspoon Vanilla bean paste (or vanilla extract)
• 50 g Unsalted butter (82% fat, room temperature soft butter)

For the Topping

• 50 g Demerara sugar (granulated sugar can work as well)

How to Make Crème Brûlée Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add the egg and egg yolk one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Mix in the vanilla extract until fully combined.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. In another bowl, whisk together all purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
2. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

Step 3: Bake the Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart.
4. Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.

Step 4: Prepare the Cream Filling

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine whole milk and granulated sugar until warm.
2. In another bowl, whisk together egg yolks, cornstarch, all-purpose flour, and vanilla bean paste.
3. Slowly pour in warm milk mixture while whisking continuously to temper eggs.
4. Return this mixture to the saucepan and cook on low heat until thickened.

Step 5: Assemble the Cookies

1. Once cookies have cooled completely, spoon pastry cream onto each cookie.
2. Sprinkle demerara sugar over pastry cream evenly.

Step 6: Caramelize Topping

1. Using a kitchen torch or broiler, carefully caramelize the sugar on top until golden brown.
2. Allow cookies to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Crème Brûlée Cookies, perfect for sharing or indulging!

How to Serve Crème Brûlée Cookies

Crème brûlée cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to impress guests or simply indulge yourself, here are some creative serving suggestions.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve your cookies alongside a mix of fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a refreshing contrast.

With Whipped Cream

• A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy element that complements the rich flavors of the cookies.

A Scoop of Ice Cream

• Place a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream on top for an indulgent dessert that takes these cookies to the next level.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• Add a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce over the cookies for an extra touch of sweetness and decadence.

Pair with Coffee or Tea

• Enjoying these cookies with a cup of coffee or tea enhances the overall experience, making it perfect for an afternoon treat.

How to Perfect Crème Brûlée Cookies

To achieve the best results with your crème brûlée cookies, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Allow butter, eggs, and milk to reach room temperature for a smoother batter and better texture.

• Chill the Dough – Refrigerate the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent spreading and ensures chewy centers.

• Measure Flour Accurately – Spoon flour into your measuring cup instead of scooping it directly. This prevents dense cookies due to excess flour.

• Don’t Overbake – Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. They should be golden around the edges but still soft in the center when removed from the oven.

• Caramelize Sugar Carefully – For the topping, sprinkle sugar evenly and use a kitchen torch carefully to create that perfect crispy layer without burning it.

Best Side Dishes for Crème Brûlée Cookies

Crème brûlée cookies shine even brighter when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some excellent options:

1. Fruit Salad – A colorful mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and balances the richness of the cookies.

2. Chocolate Fondue – Dip pieces of cookie in warm chocolate fondue for an exciting interactive dessert experience.

3. Cheese Platter – Include mild cheeses like brie or camembert for a savory contrast that pairs beautifully with sweet treats.

4. Nut Mix – A blend of roasted nuts adds crunch and richness that nicely offsets the soft texture of crème brûlée cookies.

5. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a deliciously creamy side dish that complements the cookie’s flavors.

6. Ice Cream Sundae Bar – Set up an ice cream sundae bar where guests can customize their sundaes with toppings like sprinkles, nuts, and sauces.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes when baking Crème Brûlée Cookies. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Bold butter: Using cold butter can result in dense cookies. Always ensure your butter is at room temperature for a soft dough.
• Bold measuring flour: Scooping directly from the container may lead to too much flour. Instead, spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife.
• Bold egg temperature: Cold eggs can affect the texture of cookies. Use eggs that are at room temperature for better mixing and consistency.
• Bold overbaking: Baking too long can dry out cookies. Keep an eye on them, and remove them from the oven when edges are lightly golden.
• Bold sugar topping: Not caramelizing enough sugar can result in a soft top. Make sure to sprinkle enough sugar evenly and use a torch or broiler until it’s crispy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Crème Brûlée Cookies in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Crème Brûlée Cookies

• Wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag; they will keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating Crème Brûlée Cookies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place cookies on a baking sheet for about 5-7 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds on medium power. Be cautious not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet on low heat, placing the cookies inside for about 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Crème Brûlée Cookies.

What makes Crème Brûlée Cookies different from regular cookies?

Crème Brûlée Cookies have a unique combination of soft cookie base, creamy pastry cream, and a caramelized sugar crust that sets them apart from traditional cookies.

Can I make gluten-free Crème Brûlée Cookies?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to create delicious gluten-free Crème Brûlée Cookies without sacrificing taste or texture.

How do I achieve the perfect caramelized topping?

Sprinkle an even layer of sugar over the pastry cream and use a kitchen torch or broiler until it turns golden brown and crispy for that classic crème brûlée finish.

Can I customize my Crème Brûlée Cookies?

Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or other flavorings like citrus zest to give your Crème Brûlée Cookies a personal touch.

Final Thoughts

These Crème Brûlée Cookies are not only indulgent but also versatile. With their rich flavors and delightful textures, they can be customized to fit any occasion. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy creating your own unique version of these delicious treats!