Brown the butter by melting 1 cup of salted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat until it turns a rich amber color, about 5-7 minutes.

Mix wet ingredients by combining 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1 cup of brown sugar with the cooled brown butter, whisking until creamy. Add in 2 large eggs and 2 teaspoons of vanilla bean paste until fully incorporated.

Combine dry ingredients by whisking 2 ¾ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of baking powder in a separate bowl. Gradually add to the wet ingredients and stir gently.

Chill the dough by scooping onto a lined baking sheet and covering with plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Bake cookies by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C), placing chilled dough balls on a baking sheet, and baking for 8-10 minutes.

Prepare frosting by beating together ½ cup of softened butter and 2 cups of powdered sugar, adding vanilla and milk to achieve a creamy consistency.

Frost and decorate cookies by spreading frosting on each cooled cookie and adding festive sprinkles or toppings.