Name: Brown Sugar Cookies Recipe (Boneless)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Ingredients: 16 tablespoons unsalted butter ((softened to room temperature)); 1.33 cups light brown sugar ((tightly packed)); 1 large egg; 1 large egg yolk ((discard or save the whites for another recipe)); 2 teaspoons molasses ((optional, but recommended for extra flavor)); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 teaspoons cornstarch; 0.75 teaspoon salt; 0.5 teaspoon baking soda ((sift if clumpy)); 0.5 teaspoon baking powder; 2.75 cups flour ((all-purpose flour)); 0.5 cup Demerara sugar ((or granulated sugar)); 1 cup English Toffee Baking Bits ((optional))

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There’s something utterly comforting about a freshly baked cookie — the warm aroma, the gooey centers, and that delightful crunch on the edges. This Brown Sugar Cookies Recipe (Boneless) is a true gem, bringing together the rich flavors of brown sugar and a touch of vanilla, resulting in cookies that are soft, chewy, and utterly irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat for yourself, these cookies will not disappoint. Let’s dive into the delicious details!

Why I Love This Recipe

These brown sugar cookies are not just any cookies; they’re a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more. The use of light brown sugar imparts a deep, caramel-like sweetness that pairs perfectly with the buttery richness from the unsalted butter. Adding an egg yolk results in a wonderfully chewy texture, while the optional English toffee bits offer a delightful crunch and additional flavor. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make, making them perfect for both novice and experienced bakers alike.

What You’ll Gather

To get started on your Brown Sugar Cookies Recipe (Boneless), you will need the following ingredients:

16 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
1-1/3 cups light brown sugar (tightly packed)
1 large egg
1 large egg yolk (discard or save the whites for another recipe)
2 teaspoons molasses (optional, but recommended for extra flavor)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 teaspoons cornstarch
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda (sift if clumpy)
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
2-3/4 cups flour (all-purpose flour)
1/2 cup Demerara sugar (or granulated sugar)
1 cup English Toffee Baking Bits (optional)

Recommended Tools

Before you begin baking, make sure you have the following tools handy:

Mixer (stand or hand mixer works best for creaming butter and sugar)
Baking sheets (lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup)
Mixing bowls (various sizes for different ingredients)
Measuring cups and spoons (accurate measurements are key to success)
Cookie scoop (for evenly sized cookies)
Cooling rack (to cool cookies evenly after baking)

Cook Brown Sugar Cookies Recipe (Boneless) Like This

Get ready to create some magic in your kitchen with this step-by-step guide!

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temperature for baking cookies, ensuring they come out soft and chewy.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, add the softened unsalted butter and the tightly packed light brown sugar. Using your mixer, cream them together on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process usually takes about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Flavorings

Next, add in the large egg, the egg yolk, molasses (if using), and vanilla extract. Mix until fully incorporated. The addition of the egg yolk will enhance the chewiness of your cookies!

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, salt, baking soda, and baking powder. Make sure there are no lumps in the mixture. This step is crucial for even distribution of the leavening agents.

Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few flour streaks are okay.

Step 6: Add Demerara Sugar and Toffee Bits

Fold in the Demerara sugar and optional English toffee baking bits with a spatula. This step adds a delightful crunch and extra sweetness to your cookies.

Step 7: Scoop and Bake

Using a cookie scoop, drop rounded balls of cookie dough onto your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. This allows them to set perfectly. Enjoy your delicious Brown Sugar Cookies!

Healthier Substitutions

If you’re looking to lighten up this Brown Sugar Cookies Recipe (Boneless), consider these substitutions:

Butter: Use coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative.
Brown Sugar: Substitute with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index.
Flour: Replace all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend.
Toffee Bits: Use dark chocolate chips or leave them out entirely for fewer calories.

Missteps & Fixes

Even the best bakers encounter hiccups in the kitchen. Here are some common missteps and how to fix them:

Cookies Spread Too Much: This could be due to warm dough or not enough flour. Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to help it hold its shape.
Cookies Turn Out Hard: Overbaking is often the culprit. Keep a close eye on them and remove them while they’re still soft in the center.
Uneven Baking: Ensure your oven is properly calibrated. Rotate your baking sheets halfway through baking for even results.
Flavor Lacks Depth: Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

These cookies are perfect for making ahead of time or storing for later:

After baking, allow the cookies to cool completely. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them! Just place the cooled cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they can last up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds for that just-baked goodness!

Quick Q&A

Can I use brown sugar substitutes in this recipe?

Yes, you can use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like stevia, but the flavor and texture may vary slightly.

How can I make these cookies vegan?

Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, use flax eggs instead of the egg and egg yolk, and ensure all other ingredients are vegan-friendly.

What should I do if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough feels too sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to scoop and handle.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Absolutely! Feel free to add chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits to customize your cookies further.

Quick Weeknight Wins

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Final Thoughts

This Brown Sugar Cookies Recipe (Boneless) is a delightful way to indulge in a classic treat that’s sure to please everyone. With its rich flavors and chewy texture, it’s perfect for any occasion — whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home. Plus, the versatility of this recipe allows you to make it your own with various mix-ins and substitutions. So preheat that oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake a batch of cookies that will bring smiles to your table!