Name: Irresistible Creme Brûlée Cookies: A Chewy Vanilla Delight
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 large egg; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup heavy cream; 3 tablespoons cornstarch; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup granulated sugar (for caramelizing)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As I was savoring a lavish dinner at a cozy French bistro, I couldn’t help but drool over the classic creme brûlée on the dessert menu. How could I recreate that creamy, dreamy experience in cookie form? Enter my new obsession: Creme Brûlée Cookies. These delightful bites blend the chewy texture of sugar cookies with an indulgent vanilla pastry cream filling and a crunchy caramelized sugar topping. Perfect for impressing friends at your next gathering or satisfying those late-night sweet cravings, these cookies offer an easy yet elegant twist on a beloved dessert. Ready to dive into a baking adventure that’ll surely captivate your taste buds? Let’s get started!

Why are these cookies a must-try?

Uniqueness: These Creme Brûlée Cookies offer an exciting twist on a classic favorite, blending the traditional flavors you love into a convenient and delightful cookie form.

Elevated Flavor: The luscious vanilla pastry cream filling is complemented by a perfectly crispy caramelized sugar topping, making each bite a celebration of textures and tastes.

Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you’ll be able to whip up these cookies even if you’re short on time, without compromising on flavor!

Perfect for Sharing: Whether at a gathering or alongside your afternoon coffee, these cookies will undoubtedly impress your guests and satisfy your cravings for something sweet.

Creative Variations: If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding cocoa powder for a chocolate twist or experimenting with flavored extracts to make this recipe your own! (For more twists, check out these Chocolate Chip Cookies.)

This dessert will not only tickle your taste buds but also spark joy in your baking routine. Get ready to fall in love!

Creme Brûlée Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Base

Sugar – Provides sweetness and structure; you can substitute brown sugar for a richer flavor.
Butter – Adds moisture and richness; opt for unsalted to control the saltiness in your cookies.
Flour – Forms the structure of the cookie; all-purpose flour works best for a light texture—avoid whole wheat.
Eggs – Binds ingredients and adds to the rise; use large eggs for consistent results.
Vanilla Extract – Essential for flavor; swap it with almond extract if you want to change the profile.

For the Vanilla Pastry Cream

Heavy Cream – Key for richness in your pastry cream; don’t substitute with milk for the ideal texture.
Cornstarch – Thickens the pastry cream; if necessary, you can replace it with a similar thickening agent.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the pastry cream; avoid powdered sugar as it won’t work for this purpose.

For the Topping

Granulated Sugar (for caramelizing) – Creates a perfect crispy layer; do not use powdered sugar, as it won’t caramelize nicely.

Embrace this delicious adventure with your Creme Brûlée Cookies and prepare for a sweet symphony that dances on your palate!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creme Brûlée Cookies

Step 1: Cookie Dough Preparation
Begin by creaming ½ cup of softened unsalted butter with 1 cup of granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. Mix in 1 large egg and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract until well combined. Gradually add 2 cups of all-purpose flour, mixing until just incorporated; the dough will be soft but manageable, resembling typical sugar cookie consistency.

Step 2: Chilling
Once your cookie dough is ready, use your hands to roll it into small balls, about 1 tablespoon each. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between for spreading. Cover the baking sheet with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the dough to firm up, which will help keep the cookies thick and chewy during baking.

Step 3: Baking
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the dough chills. Once chilled, arrange the cookie balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them 2 inches apart. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until the edges are light golden brown while the centers remain slightly soft, signaling they’re perfectly baked for your Creme Brûlée Cookies. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 4: Prepare Pastry Cream
To create the luscious vanilla pastry cream, pour 1 cup of heavy cream into a medium saucepan and heat over medium-low heat until it’s warm but not boiling. In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 egg yolks, ¼ cup of granulated sugar, and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch until smooth. Gradually pour the warm cream mixture into the yolk mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs, then transfer the entire mixture back to the saucepan.

Step 5: Cooking the Pastry Cream
Return the saucepan to medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble, about 5-7 minutes. Once thickened, remove it from the heat and stir in an additional teaspoon of vanilla extract for extra flavor. Allow the pastry cream to cool to room temperature before using; this silky filling will bring your Creme Brûlée Cookies to life!

Step 6: Assemble Cookies
Once your cookies have completely cooled, it’s time to assemble the delicious layers. Use a piping bag or a spoon to generously fill the center of each cookie with the cooled vanilla pastry cream. This creamy filling is the heart of your Creme Brûlée Cookies, providing a delightful contrast to the chewy cookie base.

Step 7: Caramelizing Sugar
Finally, sprinkle a thin, even layer of granulated sugar over the pastry cream on each cookie. If you have a kitchen torch, carefully caramelize the sugar until it creates a bubbly, golden crust, about 30 seconds. If using the oven, place the cookies on a baking sheet and broil for 1-2 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning, until the sugar is perfectly crispy and golden. Enjoy your exquisite Creme Brûlée Cookies!

How to Store and Freeze Creme Brûlée Cookies

Room Temperature: Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them chewy and delicious.
Fridge: If you prefer a chilled cookie, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, ensuring they’re sealed tightly to prevent drying out.
Freezer: Freeze unfilled cookies (before adding pastry cream) in a single layer for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before filling.
Reheating: To reheat, simply microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm them in the oven at low heat, ensuring the caramel topping remains crisp.

Creme Brûlée Cookies Variations

Indulge your creativity with these delightful twists on the classic Creme Brûlée Cookies that will tantalize your taste buds!

Chocolate Twist: Add 1/4 cup cocoa powder to the dough for a rich chocolate flavor that complements the creamy filling beautifully. Each bite becomes a luscious chocolate experience!
Nutty Addition: Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts into the dough for a delightful crunch, enhancing the texture while adding a flavorful nutty depth.
Flavored Liqueurs: Swap the vanilla extract for flavored liqueurs, like orange or coffee, to create unique flavor profiles in the pastry cream. This will elevate your cookies to gourmet status!
Coconut Delight: Mix in 1/2 cup of shredded coconut into the cookie dough for a tropical twist. The coconut adds a delightful chewiness that pairs beautifully with the creamy filling.
Spicy Kick: Dust the caramelized sugar topping with a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon for a surprising flavor boost! The heat will contrast beautifully with the sweet and creamy layers.
Fruit-Filled: Top the pastry cream with a layer of fresh fruit or a fruit compote before caramelizing the sugar. Berries like raspberries or strawberries add a refreshing tartness that balances the sweetness.
A sprinkle of Sea Salt: Finish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt over the caramelized sugar for a delicious salty-sweet contrast. This will truly elevate your cookies to a new level of gourmet dessert!

Feeling adventurous? Try some of these delicious variations, like our tasty Lemon Raspberry Cookies for more citrusy treats!

Make Ahead Options

These Creme Brûlée Cookies are perfect for meal prep, offering you the convenience of prepping several components in advance! You can prepare the cookie dough and chill it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Additionally, the vanilla pastry cream can be made up to 3 days in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge. To maintain the cookies’ delightful texture, wait to assemble them and caramelize the sugar topping until right before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy these scrumptious cookies, just bake the prepped dough, fill with the cream, and caramelize for that perfect crispy finish. With these make-ahead steps, you’ll save time while still delivering an indulgent treat!

Expert Tips for Creme Brûlée Cookies

Consistent Chilling: Ensure your cookie dough chills for at least 30 minutes. This step prevents spreading and helps achieve the desired chewy texture.
Even Sugar Layer: When sprinkling granulated sugar on top, distribute it evenly. This will ensure a perfect caramelization across all cookies for consistent flavor.
Monitor Broiling Closely: If using the oven to caramelize sugar, watch carefully to avoid burning. A moment too long can ruin that crispy topping—better safe than sorry!
Cooling Time Matters: Make sure your cookies are completely cooled before adding the pastry cream. This helps retain the cream’s silky texture and prevents melting or sogginess.
Pre-fill Right Before Serving: For optimal freshness, assemble and caramelize the cookies just before serving. This keeps your Creme Brûlée Cookies delicious and texturally perfect!

What to Serve with Creme Brûlée Cookies?

Indulge in the sweet enchantment of these delightful cookies, and consider these perfect pairings to elevate your dessert experience.

Rich Coffee: The bold flavor of freshly brewed coffee balances the sweetness, enhancing the creamy notes of the cookies. It’s a classic duo that warms the soul.
Silky Hot Chocolate: Serve these cookies alongside a warm mug of hot chocolate for a cozy treat. The rich chocolate pairs beautifully with the vanilla pastry cream filling.
Fruity Sorbet: A refreshing scoop of citrus or berry sorbet adds a fruity contrast, creating an enticing flavor harmony that cuts through the richness of the cookies.
Cheesecake Bites: Bite-sized cheesecake treats bring creamy goodness that complements the chewy texture and gooey filling of the cookies. It’s a sweet lover’s dream!
Mocha or Chai Latte: These spiced drinks bring warmth, perfect for enhancing the decadent flavor of the cookies. The spices resonate delightfully with the vanilla notes!
Mini Fruit Tarts: Add a burst of fresh fruit with mini tarts, providing a crunchy contrast to the soft cookie base and creamy pastry. It’s a delightful textural experience!
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream brings a cooling contrast, while its creaminess echoes the flavors of the pastry cream within the cookies.
Sparkling Wine: A glass of bubbly elevates the occasion. The carbonation enhances your palate, perfect for balancing the dessert’s sweetness.
Dark Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: The combination of rich chocolate and fresh strawberries offers a tasty nod to the dessert’s flavors while adding a romantic touch to your spread.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: For the ultimate dessert table, pair these with classic chocolate chip cookies. The melding of flavors will leave everyone smiling!

Creme Brûlée Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right ingredients for these cookies?
Absolutely! For the best results, select fresh, high-quality ingredients. Ensure your eggs are large and as fresh as possible, and opt for unsalted butter to better control the flavor. When it comes to sugar, I often recommend using granulated sugar for the cookie base. If you want a richer flavor, you can substitute half of it with brown sugar. For the heavy cream in the pastry cream, avoid using milk to achieve the luxurious texture you desire.

How should I store Creme Brûlée Cookies?
You can store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This will help maintain their chewy texture. If you’re looking to keep them longer, refrigerate them—just be sure they’re fully sealed to prevent them from drying out.

Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can! To freeze, stash the unfilled cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Once you’re ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw at room temperature. After thawing, fill them with the pastry cream and caramelize the sugar topping just before serving for the best crunch!

What should I do if the pastry cream turns lumpy?
If your pastry cream becomes lumpy, don’t worry! It happens sometimes. Simply strain the cream through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any lumps. If it’s too thick, you can whisk in a bit of milk or cream over low heat until it reaches your desired consistency. Just remember to cool it down before filling your cookies!

Are these cookies suitable for people with allergies?
Great question! The primary allergens in these Creme Brûlée Cookies are gluten (from flour) and dairy (from butter and cream). If you’re accommodating someone with these allergies, consider using gluten-free flour blends and dairy-free cream alternatives available on the market. Always ensure those substitutions match in texture and flavor for the best results.