Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Deep Flavor: Brown sugar gives these cookies a rich, molasses-like taste.
Soft and Chewy: Perfect texture that melts in your mouth.
Simple Ingredients: Made with basic pantry staples.
Versatile: Great for holiday baking or everyday snacking.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/4 cups packed brown sugar
1 large egg
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt

Directions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat softened butter and brown sugar until creamy and fluffy.
Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
Shape Cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized dough balls onto prepared baking sheets, spacing about 2 inches apart.
Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and tops look slightly cracked.
Cool: Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

Servings: About 24 cookies
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes

Variations

Add Spices: Mix in cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor.
Chocolate Chips: Fold in 1 cup chocolate chips for a chocolaty twist.
Glaze or Frost: Drizzle with vanilla glaze or spread cream cheese frosting.
Make It Chewy or Crispier: Bake shorter for softer cookies, longer for crispier texture.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Freeze dough or baked cookies for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Warm in microwave for 10-15 seconds to soften.

FAQs

Can I substitute brown sugar with white sugar?

Brown sugar provides moisture and flavor; white sugar changes texture and taste.

How do I keep cookies soft?

Don’t overbake and store with a slice of bread to retain moisture.

Can I make these vegan?

Substitute butter with vegan butter and egg with flax egg.

Can I add nuts?

Yes, walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch.

Are these cookies good for kids?

Yes, they’re a popular treat for all ages.

Can I roll cookies in sugar before baking?

Yes, it adds a slight crunch and sparkle.

How do I prevent cookies from spreading?

Chill dough before baking and use parchment paper.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Use gluten-free flour blends instead of all-purpose flour.

Can I use salted butter?

Reduce added salt slightly if using salted butter.

How long do these cookies last?

Best within 5 days when stored properly.

Conclusion

Brown Sugar Cookies are a classic, comforting treat with a rich, caramel-like flavor and chewy texture. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, they’re perfect for any occasion and sure to become a favorite in your cookie rotation.