Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

These Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies are a delightful treat that combines rich, nutty flavors with a sweet vanilla glaze. They offer a soft and chewy texture, making them perfect for cozy gatherings or festive occasions. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday party or enjoying them as an afternoon snack, these cookies are sure to impress with their unique flavor profile and stunning appearance.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The brown butter adds a nutty richness that enhances the traditional oatmeal cookie taste.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps, anyone can whip up a batch in just 25 minutes!
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them warm from the oven or allow the glaze to set for a delightful snack any time of day.
• Perfect for Sharing: This recipe yields 24 cookies, making them great for parties, potlucks, or gift-giving.
• Customizable Glaze: Feel free to experiment with different flavors in the vanilla glaze to match your preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, gather all necessary tools to ensure a smooth process. Having everything ready will make your experience enjoyable and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly without splashes.
• Whisk: Helps incorporate air into mixtures, yielding lighter and fluffier cookies.
• Baking sheet: Provides even heat distribution for consistent baking results.

Ingredients

To prepare these delightful cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Cookies

• 1 1/4 cups (282 g) unsalted butter
• 2 cups (190 g) old fashioned oats
• 2 cups, plus 4 tablespoons (280 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 cup (200 g) light brown sugar, packed
• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla
• 2 tablespoons molasses (not blackstrap)

For the Glaze

• 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla

How to Make Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Butter

Start by melting the unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Continue cooking until it turns golden brown and gives off a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt until well combined.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another large bowl, combine the browned butter with both sugars. Use a whisk to mix until smooth. Add in the eggs one at a time followed by vanilla extract and molasses. Mix until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir until just combined. Fold in old fashioned oats gently until evenly distributed.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough onto the prepared sheet about two inches apart. Bake for about 10 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges.

Step 6: Prepare the Glaze

While cookies are cooling on a wire rack, combine sifted powdered sugar with milk and vanilla in a bowl. Whisk until smooth and drizzle over cooled cookies once they have set.

Enjoy your delicious Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies fresh out of the oven or after glazing!

How to Serve Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

These delightful brown butter iced oatmeal cookies are perfect for any occasion. Their sweet vanilla glaze and cozy spice flavor make them a treat everyone will love. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair your cookies with a cold glass of milk for a classic combination that balances the sweetness perfectly.

As a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a festive platter alongside other holiday treats like chocolate chip cookies and ginger snaps for an inviting dessert spread.

Crumbled on Ice Cream

• Crumble these cookies over your favorite ice cream flavor for an added crunch and flavor boost, creating a delicious sundae.

With Coffee or Tea

• Serve the cookies alongside a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea. The spices in the cookies complement many warm beverages beautifully.

Gift Wrapped

• Package these cookies in decorative bags or boxes as gifts for friends and family. They make thoughtful treats that show you care.

How to Perfect Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

To achieve the best results with your brown butter iced oatmeal cookies, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always ensure your baking ingredients are fresh. Old baking soda or flour can affect the texture and flavor of your cookies.

• Brown the Butter Carefully: Take your time when browning the butter. Aim for a golden color and nutty aroma without burning it, as this adds depth to the cookie’s flavor.

• Chill the Dough: For thicker cookies, chill your dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent spreading and keeps them soft and chewy.

• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. Remove them from the oven when they are just set and lightly golden around the edges for optimal softness.

• Sift Your Powdered Sugar: Sifting powdered sugar ensures there are no lumps in your glaze, resulting in a smooth finish over each cookie.

Best Side Dishes for Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

These brown butter iced oatmeal cookies can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some great pairings:

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness to balance the rich flavors of the cookies.

2. Cheese Platter: Include a variety of cheeses such as brie or gouda to contrast with the sweetness of the cookies, offering guests a savory option.

3. Spiced Hot Cider: Warm spiced apple cider pairs well with these cookies, enhancing their cozy spice notes during colder months.

4. Chocolate Fondue: Set up a chocolate fondue station where guests can dip fruit or even pieces of cookie into melted chocolate for extra indulgence.

5. Nutty Granola: Serve alongside homemade nutty granola as a crunchy side that complements the chewy texture of the cookies.

6. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a creamy side dish that balances out the sweetness of the iced oatmeal cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking cookies can be tricky, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure your brown butter iced oatmeal cookies turn out perfectly.

• Incorrect Butter Temperature: Using cold butter can result in uneven mixing. Always use room temperature butter for a smooth batter.
• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined for soft and chewy results.
• Inaccurate Measurements: Using improper measurements can ruin your recipe. Always spoon and level flour for accuracy.
• Skipping the Cooling Time: Letting cookies cool before icing ensures the glaze sets properly. Don’t rush this step for best results.
• Not Sifting Powdered Sugar: Clumps in powdered sugar can affect your icing texture. Sift it before mixing for a smooth glaze.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Layer parchment paper between cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

• Freeze cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

Reheating Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time on medium power for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place a pan over low heat and warm cookies covered for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes brown butter iced oatmeal cookies special?

Brown butter adds a rich, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste of the oatmeal cookies, making them more decadent.

How do I achieve the perfect browning of butter?

Melt butter over medium heat, swirling occasionally until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma. Watch closely to prevent burning.

Can I customize the spices in this Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add spices like ginger or cloves, or even mix in chocolate chips or nuts for added flavor and texture.

How long do these cookies stay fresh?

When stored correctly, these cookies remain fresh for up to one week at room temperature or three months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

These brown butter iced oatmeal cookies are not only soft and chewy but also bursting with cozy flavors. Their versatility allows you to customize them with various spices or add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts. Try this delightful recipe today, and enjoy these festive treats year-round!