Creme Brûlée Cookies Recipe

If you love the creamy decadence of crème brûlée and the comforting sweetness of cookies, this recipe combines the best of both worlds! Creme Brûlée Cookies are elegant yet easy-to-make treats, perfect for special occasions or impressing guests. With a soft cookie base, creamy pudding topping, and a crisp caramelized sugar layer, they deliver all the flavors and textures of the classic dessert in handheld form.

What Are Creme Brûlée Cookies?

Creme Brûlée Cookies are a delightful fusion of cookies and crème brûlée. They feature a buttery, slightly crisp cookie base topped with chilled vanilla pudding and a layer of caramelized sugar. The result? A sophisticated dessert with a satisfying crunch and a creamy finish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines two iconic desserts into one irresistible treat.
• Easy enough for beginners but fancy enough for special occasions.
• Perfect for making ahead and serving at parties.
• Customizable with flavors or toppings to suit your preferences.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 1 ½ cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Topping:

• 1 cup (240 g) vanilla pudding, prepared and chilled
• ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar (for caramelizing)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.

Shaping and Baking

5. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms.
6. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and slightly flatten them on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Cool the cookies completely on a wire rack.

Adding the Topping

8. Once the cookies are cool, spoon a small dollop of chilled vanilla pudding onto each cookie and gently spread it out.

Caramelizing the Sugar

9. Sprinkle an even layer of granulated sugar over the pudding topping.
10. Using a kitchen torch, carefully caramelize the sugar until it turns golden and crisp. Allow the cookies to cool for 2 minutes to set the topping.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these cookies immediately for the best texture—soft cookies with creamy pudding and crisp caramel. Pair them with coffee, tea, or even a glass of sparkling wine for a decadent treat.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

Store the cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Note that the caramelized sugar layer may lose some of its crispness over time.

Freezing Instructions

Freeze the plain cookies (without topping) in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature, then add the pudding and caramelized sugar topping before serving.

Recipe Variations

• Flavor twist: Use chocolate or butterscotch pudding instead of vanilla.
• Citrus zing: Add 1 tsp of orange or lemon zest to the cookie dough.
• Gluten-free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Vegan option: Use vegan butter, an egg replacer, and dairy-free pudding.

FAQs

Can I make these cookies without a kitchen torch?
Yes! Place the sugar-topped cookies under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.

Can I use store-bought pudding?
Absolutely. Prepared pudding works perfectly and saves time.

How can I ensure my caramel layer stays crisp?
Caramelize the sugar just before serving for the best crunch.

These Creme Brûlée Cookies bring a gourmet touch to any dessert table with their unique flavor and texture. Easy to make and guaranteed to impress, they’re perfect for parties, holidays, or simply treating yourself. Try this recipe today and let us know how much you love it!

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