Brown Sugar Cookies Recipe: Easy Chewy Homemade Treats
These chewy brown sugar cookies are a nostalgic, comforting treat with rich caramel undertones and crackly tops. Quick to make with pantry staples, they’re perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy afternoon snack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: 25-27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups light brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)
- Optional: 1/2 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Beat in vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using).
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, beating on low until just combined. If dough is too wet, add 1 tablespoon more flour.
- Fold in optional add-ins: nuts or chocolate chips, using a spatula. Do not overmix.
- Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop rounded balls (about 2 tablespoons each) onto prepared baking sheets, spacing 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, until edges are set and centers are slightly soft. For ovens that run hot, check at 9 minutes.
- Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 3 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack.
- Repeat with remaining dough, ensuring baking sheets are cool before reusing.
Notes
For extra chewy cookies, slightly underbake and let them cool on the pan for a few minutes. If dough is too soft, chill for 10 minutes. Measure flour accurately to avoid dry cookies. For gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. For vegan, substitute plant-based butter and flax eggs. Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (about 30g)
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 9
- Sodium: 75
- Fat: 6
- Saturated Fat: 3.5
- Carbohydrates: 18
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 1
Keywords: brown sugar cookies, chewy cookies, homemade cookies, easy cookie recipe, comfort food, dessert, baking, American cookies, quick cookies, family treats