Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe scent of browned butter dancing through the kitchen brings a wave of nostalgia, reminding me of cozy afternoons spent baking with loved ones. Today, I’m excited to share an incredible twist on a classic favorite: Gooey Bourbon Browned Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies. These cookies are not just any dessert; they’re a delightful blend of chewy perfection, melted chocolate, and a hint of bourbon that elevates them to new heights. What I adore about this recipe is its ease—perfect for both seasoned bakers and novices alike—and how ideal they are for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging yourself. With their soft centers and golden edges, you’ll be left craving more, and trust me, your friends and family will be reaching for seconds. What’s your favorite way to enjoy chocolate chip cookies? Let’s get baking! Why Are These Cookies a Must-Try? Irresistible Flavor: The combination of gooey chocolate and warm bourbon creates a delightful depth that’s hard to resist. Easy to Make: With just a few steps, anyone can whip up these decadent treats, making them ideal for any skill level. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family get-together or a special celebration, these cookies are sure to impress. Versatile Options: Experiment with different chocolate types or add in nuts for a unique twist! If you love this cookie concept, you might also enjoy our Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars or Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake. Crowd Pleaser: Their chewy texture and rich flavor will have everyone asking for the recipe! Gooey Bourbon Browned Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies For the Dough Unsalted Butter – Brown it gently for a rich, nutty flavor that enhances the cookies. Bourbon (2 shots) – This adds a unique complexity to the chocolate cookies; adjust the amount or omit for a delightful, non-alcoholic version. Brown Sugar (1 cup) – Provides moisture and a deep caramel essence; essential for that gooey texture. White Sugar (¼ cup) – Balances the sweetness; can be swapped for more brown sugar if you prefer extra richness. Maple Syrup (¼ cup) – Enhances sweetness and caramel notes; substitute with corn syrup in a pinch. Vanilla Extract (1 tbsp) – Use pure vanilla for the best warmth and flavor. Egg (1) & Egg Yolk (1) – These provide moisture, binding the dough for a satisfying chew. All-Purpose Flour (2½ cups) – The foundation of the cookies; measure accurately for the perfect texture. Baking Soda (1 tsp) – Helps the cookies rise while baking, contributing to their chewy consistency. Salt (1 tsp) – Essential for balancing the sweetness and enhancing the overall flavor. Dark Chocolate Chips (2-3 cups) – Adjust based on your chocolate cravings; they add to the gooeyness of these cookies. Feel free to dive into this delightful adventure of creating Gooey Bourbon Browned Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies that are sure to enchant your taste buds! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gooey Bourbon Browned Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is crucial for achieving that perfect golden edge while keeping the centers irresistibly gooey. Prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper, ensuring a non-stick surface for your delightful cookies. Step 2: Brown the Butter In a medium saucepan, melt two sticks of unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir frequently for about 5-7 minutes until the butter turns a light golden brown and develops a nutty aroma. Once browned, carefully remove it from heat and stir in the bourbon. Allow the mixture to cool slightly while you gather the other ingredients. Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients In a stand mixer, combine the cooled browned butter mixture with brown sugar, white sugar, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and one whole egg plus an additional yolk. Mix on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is smooth and creamy. You’ll notice a rich, caramel-like texture that sets the stage for your Gooey Bourbon Browned Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies. Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients Slowly add in the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt while mixing on low speed. Mix until just combined—be careful not to overwork the dough, so it retains its tender texture. The dough will be thick but beautifully blended, filling your kitchen with yummy aromas that hint at the yummy cookies to come. Step 5: Add Chocolate Chips Gently fold in the dark chocolate chips into the dough. Use a spatula to ensure even distribution, creating pockets of melty chocolate throughout. These chunks will provide a luscious, gooey center that makes your Gooey Bourbon Browned Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies unforgettable. Step 6: Chill the Dough Using a cookie scoop, portion large balls of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. For best results, chill the cookie dough in the refrigerator for at least one hour. This step enhances the flavors and improves the texture, ensuring your cookies turn out chewy and indulgent. Step 7: Bake the Cookies Once chilled, pop your cookie sheets into the preheated oven and bake for approximately 12 minutes. You want the edges to appear set while the centers look slightly undercooked—this will create a delightful chewy texture. The aroma will be irresistible, so keep a close watch as they bake! Step 8: Cool and Enjoy After baking, remove your Gooey Bourbon Browned Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes. This allows them to firm up slightly before transferring them to a wire rack. As they cool, the centers will continue to set, leaving you with warm, gooey perfection ready to devour. Gooey Bourbon Browned Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies Variations Feel free to customize these cookies to match your taste buds and dietary needs! Milk Chocolate: Swap dark chocolate chips for milk chocolate for a sweeter treat that kids will adore. Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a celiac-friendly option. Nutty Addition: Add 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch and extra flavor. Dried Fruit: Stir in 1 cup of dried cranberries or cherries for a burst of tartness alongside the sweet chocolate. Vegan: Substitute butter with coconut oil and use a flax egg to make this recipe vegan-friendly. Spicy Twist: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne or chili powder for a surprising kick that complements the sweetness. Double Bourbon: Add an extra shot of bourbon for an even richer flavor—a true indulgence for bourbon lovers! Cookie Bars: Press the dough into a baking pan to create gooey cookie bars instead of individual cookies for easier serving at gatherings. If you enjoy experimenting with flavors, don’t miss our Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta for more delightful kitchen exploration! Make Ahead Options These Gooey Bourbon Browned Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can make the dough ahead of time by mixing all the ingredients and chilling it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember to place the dough in an airtight container to maintain its freshness and flavor. If you want even more flexibility, you can scoop the cookie dough balls onto baking sheets, freeze them for up to 24 hours, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat the oven and bake straight from the freezer—add a minute or two to the baking time, and you’ll still achieve those soft, gooey centers that will delight everyone. How to Store and Freeze Gooey Bourbon Browned Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies Airtight Container: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to keep them fresh and chewy. Fridge: If you prefer, these cookies can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week; just be sure to bring them back to room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave before enjoying. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheating: When it’s time to indulge, simply pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to revive their gooey goodness. What to Serve with Gooey Bourbon Browned Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies The aroma of freshly baked cookies fills the air, inviting you to create the perfect pairing for an unforgettable dessert experience. Ice Cream Sundae: Adding a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast to the warm, gooey cookies, making each bite an indulgent treat. Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries provide a refreshing burst of flavor, balancing the rich chocolate and bourbon notes beautifully. Coffee or Espresso: A rich cup of coffee enhances the complex flavors of the bourbon and chocolate, while the heat cuts through the sweetness, making for a sophisticated pairing. Milk: Is there anything better than warm cookies and a cold glass of milk? This classic duo satisfies both kids and adults alike, keeping it simple yet delightful. Chocolate Ganache Drizzle: For extra decadence, a drizzle of chocolate ganache on top of the cookie adds an elegant touch to your dessert. Nutty Trail Mix: Offering a crunchy complement to the soft cookies, a handful of nutty trail mix introduces varying textures and flavors that intrigue the palate. Bourbon Cocktail: For adults only, a bourbon-based cocktail can amplify the cookie’s flavor, allowing you to enjoy a themed experience without extra fuss. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over the cookies not only adds sweetness but also introduces a luscious, gooey texture that enhances each bite. Expert Tips for Gooey Bourbon Browned Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies Butter Browning: Watch closely while browning the butter to ensure it reaches a light golden color without burning; this enhances the flavor essential for these decadent cookies. Chilling Dough: Don’t overlook the chilling step! It significantly improves the flavor and texture of your Gooey Bourbon Browned Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies, yielding a richer taste. Underbake for Chewiness: Remove cookies from the oven while they appear slightly undercooked; they’ll continue to firm up as they cool, resulting in a wonderfully chewy center. Measuring Flour: Make sure to spoon and level your flour instead of scooping directly from the bag. This helps prevent dense cookies and keeps them light and airy. Correcting Sweetness: If you find the cookies too sweet, consider reducing the white sugar or using a blend of chocolate chips to balance the flavors. Experiment with Mix-Ins: Feel free to add nuts or dried fruit to customize your gooey cookies for extra texture and flavor that your family will love! Gooey Bourbon Browned Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe FAQs What kind of butter should I use for these cookies? Absolutely use unsalted butter for these Gooey Bourbon Browned Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies. This allows you to control the saltiness of the dough. When browning, aim for a light golden brown color, which enhances the cookies’ flavor beautifully. How should I store leftover cookies? To keep your cookies fresh and chewy, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you prefer a chilled treat, you can refrigerate them for up to a week; just warm them slightly before enjoying for that gooey texture! Can I freeze these cookies for later? Yes, you can! To freeze baked cookies, first, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours). Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes. What if my cookies spread too much while baking? If your cookies spread too much, it might be due to warm cookie dough or not chilling it long enough. Always chill the dough for at least one hour before baking. If you find the dough too soft, return it to the refrigerator for a bit longer. Chilled dough helps maintain the shape of the cookies during baking. Are there any allergen concerns with this recipe? This recipe contains common allergens like eggs and gluten. For those with egg allergies, you might try using a flax egg or applesauce as a substitute. If you have a gluten sensitivity, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Always double-check labels for cross-contamination, especially with chocolate chips. Can these cookies be made without bourbon? Very! If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the bourbon and replace it with extra vanilla extract or a splash of milk for moisture. The cookies will still be deliciously gooey and packed with flavor! Gooey Bourbon Browned Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies You'll Love Indulge in these Gooey Bourbon Browned Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies, a delightful blend of chewy perfection and melted chocolate that elevates them to new heights. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 12 minutes minsChilling Time 1 hour hrTotal Time 1 hour hr 42 minutes mins Servings: 24 cookiesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 200 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? Dough Ingredients2 sticks Unsalted Butter Brown it gently for a rich, nutty flavor2 shots Bourbon Adds complexity1 cup Brown Sugar Provides moisture and caramel essence¼ cup White Sugar Balances the sweetness¼ cup Maple Syrup Enhances sweetness and caramel notes1 tbsp Vanilla Extract Use pure vanilla for the best flavor1 Egg Provides moisture1 Egg Yolk Helps to bind the dough2½ cups All-Purpose Flour Foundation for the cookies1 tsp Baking Soda Helps cookies rise1 tsp Salt Balances sweetness2-3 cups Dark Chocolate Chips Adjust based on cravings Equipment Stand MixerSaucepanBaking sheetsParchment paperCookie scoopWire Rack Method Baking InstructionsPreheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line the baking sheets with parchment paper.Melt the unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently for about 5-7 minutes until browned.Mix the browned butter with brown sugar, white sugar, maple syrup, vanilla, and eggs in a stand mixer for 2-3 minutes until smooth.Slowly add flour, baking soda, and salt in the mixer on low speed until just combined.Fold in the dark chocolate chips gently with a spatula.Portion dough onto baking sheets and chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour.Bake the cookies for approximately 12 minutes until edges are set but centers are slightly undercooked.Cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Nutrition Serving: 1cookieCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 2gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 100mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 200IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg NotesFor best results, chill the dough and underbake slightly to achieve a chewy center. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!