Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

These Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe are the perfect treat for any occasion. With their soft and chewy texture, rich spice flavor, and sweet vanilla glaze, these cookies are beloved by many. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy afternoon snack, they are sure to impress. The unique brown butter adds a nutty depth that elevates the classic oatmeal cookie to new heights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of brown butter and spices creates a warm, comforting taste that’s hard to resist.
• Perfectly Soft Texture: These cookies are not just delicious but also perfectly soft and chewy, making them a delight to eat.
• Versatile Treat: Suitable for holidays, parties, or casual snacking, these cookies fit any occasion.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, baking these cookies is a breeze even for beginners.
• Visually Appealing: The sweet glaze on top makes these cookies as pretty as they are tasty.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your brown butter iced oatmeal cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop or spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients evenly without spills.
• Whisk: Helps incorporate air into your dough for lighter cookies.
• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking multiple cookies at once.

Ingredients

These brown butter iced oatmeal cookies are perfectly soft and chewy, filled with cozy spice flavor and covered in a sweet vanilla glaze. As pretty as they are delicious, these are a holiday favorite year after year!

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 Icing

• 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

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Continue cooking until it turns golden brown and gives off a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Combine Sugars

In another mixing bowl, combine the light brown sugar and granulated sugar. Pour in the browned butter while it is still warm. Mix until well combined.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add in the room temperature eggs one at a time along with the vanilla extract and molasses. Mix until smooth.

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

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

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper. Use a cookie scoop or spoon to drop dough onto the prepared sheet. Bake for about 10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.

Step 7: Prepare the Icing

In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk or heavy cream, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cookies once they have cooled completely.

Enjoy your delicious batch of Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies!

How to Serve Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

These brown butter iced oatmeal cookies are not only delightful but also versatile when it comes to serving. Whether for a holiday gathering or a cozy family night, these cookies can be enjoyed in various ways.

With a Cup of Coffee

• Pair these cookies with your favorite cup of coffee for a perfect afternoon treat. The warm spices complement the coffee beautifully.

As a Dessert Platter

• Serve these cookies on a dessert platter alongside other holiday treats. Their unique flavor adds variety to any sweet spread.

Gift-Worthy Packaging

• Package the cookies in decorative boxes or jars as gifts for friends and family. They make thoughtful presents during the holiday season.

With Ice Cream

• Top each cookie with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream. The warm cookie combined with cold ice cream is a delicious contrast.

At Holiday Parties

• Bring these cookies to holiday parties for an instant hit. Their beautiful glaze and cozy flavor will impress guests of all ages.

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How to Perfect Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

To achieve the best texture and flavor in your brown butter iced oatmeal cookies, consider these helpful tips.

• Use room temperature eggs: This helps the ingredients blend better, creating a smoother dough.

• Brown your butter correctly: Take care to watch the butter closely while browning so it develops a nutty flavor without burning.

• Don’t overmix the dough: Mix until just combined to keep the cookies tender and chewy.

• Chill the dough if needed: If your kitchen is warm, chilling the dough for 30 minutes can help prevent spreading during baking.

• Sift powdered sugar for icing: Sifting ensures a smooth glaze without lumps, making for an attractive finish.

Best Side Dishes for Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

These brown butter iced oatmeal cookies can be complemented by several delightful side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Spiced Apple Cider: Warm spiced apple cider pairs wonderfully with the flavors in these cookies.

2. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses adds savory notes that balance out the sweetness of the cookies.

3. Fruit Salad: Fresh fruit salad brings brightness and freshness, making it a refreshing accompaniment.

4. Nut Mix: A mix of roasted nuts offers crunch and contrasts nicely with the soft cookie texture.

5. Chocolate Milk: A glass of rich chocolate milk is a fun pairing that both kids and adults will enjoy.

6. Hot Chocolate Bar: Set up a hot chocolate bar with toppings like whipped cream and marshmallows for an indulgent treat.

7. Caramel Sauce Dip: Serve caramel sauce for dipping; it adds an extra layer of sweetness that complements the spices perfectly.

8. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a light yet satisfying side dish that balances out the richness of the cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially when making brown butter iced oatmeal cookies. Here are some common mistakes and tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly.

• Using cold ingredients: Make sure your eggs and butter are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth batter and ensures even baking.
• Overmixing the dough: Mix just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft and chewy ones.
• Not chilling the dough: Skipping this step can cause the cookies to spread too much. Chill your dough for at least 30 minutes before baking for thicker cookies.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Always preheat your oven. An oven that’s too hot or too cool can affect the texture of your cookies.
• Using a dull knife for glazing: A sharp knife will help you achieve clean, beautiful lines when icing your cookies.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooled cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to one week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container; they will last up to three months.

Reheating Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-7 minutes for extra softness.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for 10-15 seconds on medium power for a warm treat.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes brown butter iced oatmeal cookies unique?

Brown butter adds a rich, nutty flavor that elevates these oatmeal cookies beyond ordinary ones. The combination of spices also enhances their warmth and coziness.

Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?

While you can use quick oats, old-fashioned oats provide better texture in these cookies. They create a chewier bite that’s more satisfying.

How do I make my iced oatmeal cookies more festive?

Consider adding colorful sprinkles on top of the glaze or incorporating seasonal spices like ginger or cloves for an extra holiday touch.

Can I substitute other flours in this recipe?

You can try whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour blends, but keep in mind that it may change the texture slightly. Experimenting is part of the fun!

Final Thoughts

These brown butter iced oatmeal cookies are not just delicious; they’re also versatile enough to suit any occasion. Feel free to customize them with nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits to make them your own. Enjoy baking and sharing them with loved ones!