Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

These Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe are a delightful treat that combines rich flavors and a charming appearance. Perfect for holidays, gatherings, or just a cozy night in, these cookies are soft, chewy, and topped with a sweet vanilla glaze. Their warm spices and buttery goodness will make them a favorite among friends and family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can create these delicious cookies.
• Irresistible Flavor: The brown butter adds depth, while the spices infuse warmth and coziness into every bite.
• Versatile Treat: Great for any occasion—whether it’s a holiday celebration or an everyday snack.
• Beautiful Presentation: The icing not only enhances flavor but also makes these cookies visually appealing for special events.
• Ideal for Sharing: With 24 cookies in one batch, they’re perfect for parties or as gifts for loved ones.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your brown butter iced oatmeal cookies, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process. Having the right equipment will make all the difference in your baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Whisk or electric mixer

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients evenly without creating a mess.
• Baking sheet: Provides even heat distribution for perfect cookie baking.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.

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

Start by melting the unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir it constantly until it turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma. This step is crucial as it gives your cookies their unique flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine:
Old fashioned oats
All-purpose flour
Baking soda
Ground cinnamon
Ground nutmeg
Salt

Mix these dry ingredients well so that they are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another large mixing bowl, combine:
1. The browned butter (let it cool slightly)
2. Light brown sugar
3. Granulated sugar

Whisk together until creamy. Then add:
4. Room temperature eggs
5. Vanilla
6. Molasses

Blend until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared sheet about 2 inches apart. Bake for about 10 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges.

Step 6: Prepare the Icing

While the cookies cool, whisk together:
1. Powdered sugar
2. Milk or heavy cream
3. Vanilla

Adjust consistency if needed by adding more milk or powdered sugar.

Step 7: Ice Your Cookies

Once cooled completely, drizzle or spread icing over each cookie using a spoon or spatula. Allow them to set before serving.

Enjoy your delicious batch of brown butter iced oatmeal cookies!

How to Serve Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

These delightful cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply enjoying a cozy night in, serving these brown butter iced oatmeal cookies can elevate the experience.

With a Warm Beverage

• Coffee: Pair your cookies with a freshly brewed cup of coffee for a delicious contrast.
• Hot Chocolate: Enjoy these cookies alongside rich hot chocolate for a sweet treat.
• Tea: A soothing cup of herbal tea complements the warm spices in the cookies.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Cheese and Fruit: Include your cookies on a platter with cheese and seasonal fruits for an elegant touch.
• Mini Cupcakes: Add mini cupcakes for variety; their sweetness balances well with oatmeal cookies.
• Brownies: Mix in some fudgy brownies to create a dessert spread that delights everyone.

For Holiday Gatherings

• Cookie Exchange: These cookies are great for cookie exchanges; their unique flavor will impress friends.
• Gift Giving: Package them in festive boxes for thoughtful holiday gifts that friends and family will love.

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How to Perfect Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

Perfecting your brown butter iced oatmeal cookies is easy with a few helpful tips. Follow these to ensure tasty results every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure that your baking soda, spices, and sugars are fresh for the best flavor.
• Brown Your Butter Right: Heat the butter slowly until it turns golden brown, enhancing the nutty flavor of your cookies.
• Chill the Dough: Letting the dough chill for at least an hour can help prevent spreading during baking.
• Watch Baking Time Closely: Bake until just set but not overdone, as they will continue cooking on the pan after removal.
• Sift Powdered Sugar for Icing: Sifting helps create smooth icing that glazes beautifully over your cookies.
• Store Properly: Keep your cookies in an airtight container to maintain their soft texture and freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

These brown butter iced oatmeal cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds creaminess and balances sweetness.
2. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel over the cookies for an indulgent dessert experience.
3. Fruit Salad: Fresh fruit salad adds brightness and freshness, complementing the rich flavors of the cookies.
4. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries alongside these cookies for a delightful breakfast treat.
5. Chocolate Fondue: Dip pieces of cookie into warm chocolate fondue for a fun twist on dessert.
6. Milkshake: Blend up a thick milkshake to dip your cookies into, creating an irresistible combination.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making brown butter iced oatmeal cookies can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using cold ingredients: Always ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can lead to uneven mixing and affect the cookie’s texture.
• Not browning the butter properly: Take your time to brown the butter until it’s golden and fragrant. Skipping this step can miss out on that rich, nutty flavor that makes these cookies special.
• Overmixing the dough: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can result in tough cookies instead of the soft and chewy texture you want.
• Ignoring baking times: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. Every oven is different, and overbaking can lead to dry cookies. Aim for a slight golden edge while keeping the center soft.
• Skipping the sift: Sifting your powdered sugar for the icing ensures a smooth glaze. Not doing so can result in clumpy icing that doesn’t look appealing.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• They will last up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place cookies on a baking sheet for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet on low heat, covering it with a lid for about 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to the brown butter iced oatmeal cookies recipe.

What makes brown butter iced oatmeal cookies special?

Brown butter adds a rich, nutty flavor that elevates these cookies above traditional recipes. The combination of spices and sweetness makes them irresistible.

Can I substitute ingredients in the Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe?

Yes! You can use whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour as alternatives. Adjust sugars based on your preference or dietary needs.

How do I know when my cookies are done baking?

Look for lightly browned edges while maintaining a soft center. They will continue to bake slightly after you remove them from the oven.

How should I store leftover brown butter iced oatmeal cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Final Thoughts

These brown butter iced oatmeal cookies are not just delicious; they bring warmth and comfort to any occasion. With their cozy spice flavor and sweet glaze, they’re perfect for holiday gatherings or any day you crave something sweet. Feel free to customize with nuts or dried fruits for added texture and flavor!