Discover the rich, creamy flavor of Crème Brûlée Cookies with this easy recipe that’s perfect for sweet cravings and sharing. These cookies capture the essence of classic crème brûlée dessert, featuring a delicate vanilla custard taste topped with a subtle caramelized sugar crunch. Whether you’re making a batch for yourself or impressing friends, these Crème Brûlée Cookies bring a unique twist to your baking routine that’s both indulgent and approachable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Classic flavor reimagined: Enjoy the beloved custard and caramelized sugar combination in a crunchy, handheld cookie form.
Easy to bake: The straightforward ingredients and steps make it perfect even for beginner bakers eager to try something new.
Perfect balance: Creamy vanilla notes paired with a hint of caramelized sugar create a mouthwatering flavor harmony.
Great for sharing: These cookies make lovely gifts or party treats, sure to be conversation starters.
Versatile treat: They pair wonderfully with coffee, tea, or a scoop of ice cream for an upgraded dessert experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple but essential ingredients that combine to create a luscious texture and that signature crème brûlée flavor. Each element plays a role in making rich, creamy cookies with the perfect caramelized topping.

Unsalted butter: Adds moisture and richness, essential for tender cookies.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and creates the crunchy brûlée topping.
Egg yolks: Provide that custard-like creaminess and depth of flavor.
Vanilla bean paste or extract: Offers the classic vanilla aroma central to crème brûlée.
All-purpose flour: Gives structure while keeping the cookies soft.
Heavy cream: Enhances the creamy texture reminiscent of custard.
Brown sugar (for topping): For caramelizing, lending the signature brûlée crunch.
A pinch of salt: Balances sweetness and enriches flavor.

Variations for Crème Brûlée Cookies

Feel free to customize these Crème Brûlée Cookies to suit your taste or dietary preferences. The recipe is flexible, so you can experiment with add-ins, toppings, and alternative ingredients without losing the essence of the dessert.

Chocolate twist: Add finely chopped white or dark chocolate chunks for extra decadence.
Gluten-free version: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that supports baking.
Spiced flavor: Incorporate a dash of cinnamon or cardamom for a warm, aromatic kick.
Vegan adaptation: Use dairy-free butter, coconut cream, and an egg substitute for a plant-based treat.
Berry topping: Add a few fresh raspberries or blueberries on top before caramelizing the sugar.

Irresistible Crème Brûlée Cookies to Try Now

How to Make Crème Brûlée Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Begin by beating the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until smooth and fluffy, which sets the foundation for soft, tender cookies.

Step 2: Add Egg Yolks and Vanilla

Incorporate the egg yolks and vanilla bean paste, mixing well to bring in that rich, velvety custard flavor that defines the cookie.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Whisk the all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt separately, then gradually fold them into the wet mixture to form a smooth cookie dough.

Step 4: Stir in Heavy Cream

Add the heavy cream slowly to the dough, ensuring it stays soft and creamy without becoming runny.

Step 5: Shape and Chill

Roll the dough into small balls and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, then chill for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Bake the chilled dough at 350°F (175°C) for about 12-15 minutes until edges are lightly golden but centers remain soft.

Step 7: Caramelize the Sugar Topping

Sprinkle brown sugar evenly over each cooled cookie and carefully caramelize using a kitchen torch or broiler for that signature brûlée crunch.

Pro Tips for Making Crème Brûlée Cookies

Chill the dough well: This prevents spreading and leads to perfectly shaped cookies.
Use real vanilla bean paste: It delivers a richer flavor and authentic look with specks of vanilla.
Even sugar layer: Spread the brown sugar thinly and evenly before caramelizing to avoid burnt spots.
Control the torch heat: Keep the flame moving quickly to melt sugar without overheating the cookie.
Don’t overbake: Slightly softer centers stay moist and tender after caramelizing.

How to Serve Crème Brûlée Cookies

Garnishes

Top these cookies with a small dollop of whipped cream or a fresh mint leaf to add visual appeal and a refreshing contrast to the caramelized topping.

Side Dishes

Pair Crème Brûlée Cookies with a rich espresso, lightly brewed tea, or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for an indulgent dessert spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange cookies on a stylish platter with edible flowers or crushed pistachios sprinkled around for an elegant touch at parties or special occasions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to maintain their crisp edges and soft centers.

Freezing

Freeze uncaramelized cookie dough balls on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to one month; bake and caramelize fresh when ready.

Reheating

Gently warm cookies in a low oven for a few minutes before caramelizing sugar again to refresh their crunchy topping and soften centers slightly.

FAQs

What makes Crème Brûlée Cookies different from traditional cookies?

These cookies mimic the creamy custard flavor and caramelized sugar crust of classic crème brûlée dessert, offering a luxurious twist that’s both soft and crunchy.

Can I use regular vanilla extract instead of vanilla bean paste?

Yes, vanilla extract works well, but vanilla bean paste provides a more intense flavor and visual specks that enhance the cookie’s appearance.

Is it necessary to use egg yolks only?

Egg yolks are key to achieving the silky custard texture and richness, though some variations might combine whole eggs or egg substitutes.

How do I caramelize the sugar topping without a kitchen torch?

You can use the broiler setting in your oven, placing cookies close to the heat source for a couple of minutes while watching carefully to avoid burning.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that measures cup-for-cup for best results.

Final Thoughts

Crème Brûlée Cookies are an irresistible way to enjoy the classic dessert in cookie form. Their creamy interior and crisp caramelized topping make for a delightful treat that’s easy to bake and hard to forget. Whether for your next gathering or a special moment of self-indulgence, give this recipe a try and share the joy of this delicious twist with those you love.

Crème Brûlée Cookies

Print Recipe

Crème Brûlée Cookies offer a rich, creamy vanilla custard flavor with a delicate caramelized sugar crunch on top. This easy-to-bake recipe transforms the classic crème brûlée dessert into a soft, tender cookie with a signature brûlée topping, perfect for sharing or enjoying with coffee, tea, or ice cream.

Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
3 large egg yolks
1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup heavy cream

Topping

Brown sugar, for caramelizing (about 1/4 cup)

Instructions

Cream the Butter and Sugar: Begin by beating the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until smooth and fluffy, which sets the foundation for soft, tender cookies.
Add Egg Yolks and Vanilla: Incorporate the egg yolks and vanilla bean paste, mixing well to bring in that rich, velvety custard flavor that defines the cookie.
Combine Dry Ingredients: Whisk the all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt separately, then gradually fold them into the wet mixture to form a smooth cookie dough.
Stir in Heavy Cream: Add the heavy cream slowly to the dough, ensuring it stays soft and creamy without becoming runny.
Shape and Chill: Roll the dough into small balls and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, then chill for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Bake the Cookies: Bake the chilled dough at 350°F (175°C) for about 12-15 minutes until edges are lightly golden but centers remain soft.
Caramelize the Sugar Topping: Sprinkle brown sugar evenly over each cooled cookie and carefully caramelize using a kitchen torch or oven broiler for that signature brûlée crunch.

Notes

Chill the dough well to prevent spreading and achieve perfectly shaped cookies.
Use real vanilla bean paste for richer flavor and authentic appearance with vanilla specks.
Spread the brown sugar thinly and evenly before caramelizing to avoid burnt spots.
Keep the torch flame moving quickly to melt sugar without overheating the cookie.
Do not overbake; slightly softer centers maintain moistness and tenderness after caramelizing.

Author: Lina
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: French-inspired
Diet: Gluten Free (with gluten-free flour substitution)

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cookie
Calories: 150 kcal
Sugar: 12 g
Sodium: 40 mg
Fat: 9 g
Saturated Fat: 5 g
Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 16 g
Fiber: 0.5 g
Protein: 2 g
Cholesterol: 60 mg

Keywords: Crème Brûlée Cookies, vanilla custard cookies, caramelized sugar cookies, crème brûlée dessert, easy cookie recipe, creamy cookies, vanilla cookies, brûléed sugar topping