Are you a fan of soft, chewy, and utterly irresistible sugar cookies? Look no further! We’ve got 18 mouthwatering Alton Brown sugar cookie recipes that will satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more. From classic flavors to unique twists, these decadent treats are sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, Alton Brown’s signature sugar cookies offer the perfect combination of simplicity, flavor, and presentation. And with our curated collection of recipes, you’ll be whipping up batches of golden-brown goodness in no time.
Get ready to indulge in a world of sweet and savory flavors as we take you on a journey through the best of Alton Brown’s sugar cookie creations. From classic chewy cookies to creative concoctions like brown butter and maple glazed, there’s something for everyone in this delicious lineup.
Stay tuned for our feature article, where we’ll dive into each of these 18 irresistible recipes and share the secrets behind their success.
Classic Alton Brown Chewy Sugar Cookies
These chewy sugar cookies are a staple of any baking repertoire, with a perfect balance of crunch and chew. A hint of salt and a touch of brown sugar give them a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
4. Beat in egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Alton Brown’s Brown Sugar Snickerdoodles
These soft and chewy cookies get an extra boost of flavor from the addition of brown sugar, making them a sweet and indulgent treat. Perfect for cookie exchanges or just because.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 3 tablespoons cinnamon sugar (see note)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and cream of tartar. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugars until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
4. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
6. Roll dough into balls, then roll each ball in cinnamon sugar to coat. Place on prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set.
Note: To make cinnamon sugar, combine 3 tablespoons granulated sugar and 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon in a small bowl.
Alton Brown Soft Molasses Sugar Cookies
Classic sugar cookies get a boost of flavor with the addition of molasses, creating chewy and tender treats that are perfect for snacking or sharing. This recipe yields soft, slightly sweet cookies with a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 2 tbsp molasses
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Add molasses and mix until combined.
4. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set.
8. Remove from oven and let cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Alton Brown’s Spiced Brown Sugar Cookies
A classic cookie recipe with a twist – the addition of warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger gives these cookies a cozy and inviting flavor. Perfect for a cold winter’s day or as a special treat any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Alton Brown’s Brown Butter Sugar Cookies
These rich and chewy sugar cookies get an extra layer of depth from the nutty flavor of brown butter, making them a unique treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Continue cooking until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the white granulated sugar until dissolved. Let cool slightly.
4. Whisk together eggs and vanilla extract. Add the flour, baking soda, and salt; mix until just combined.
5. Pour the cooled butter mixture into the dough and mix until a ball forms. Scoop onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Alton Brown’s Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies
Combine the buttery richness of cinnamon rolls with the classic sweetness of sugar cookies, and you’ll get a treat that’s equal parts familiar and excitingly new. These Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and cinnamon in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Roll dough into balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches (5 cm) of space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Alton Brown’s Maple Glazed Sugar Cookies
A sweet and sticky twist on classic sugar cookies, these maple glazed treats are perfect for a special occasion or just because.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp baking soda
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp pure maple syrup
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and maple syrup.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Once cookies are cool, prepare glaze by whisking together 1/4 cup powdered sugar and 2 tbsp maple syrup. Drizzle over cooled cookies.
Cook Time: 12-14 minutes
Alton Brown’s Toffee-Stuffed Sugar Cookies
These chewy sugar cookies get a luxurious boost from gooey toffee centers, making them the perfect treat for special occasions or just because.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
– Toffee bits or chopped toffee candies (about 1 cup)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Stir in toffee bits.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Alton Brown’s Brown Sugar Shortbread Cookies
Shortbread cookies are a classic, but adding brown sugar gives them a rich and indulgent twist. This recipe is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without breaking the bank.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup packed dark brown sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
3. Add the flour and salt; mix until just combined.
4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface; knead a few times until smooth.
5. Roll out to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between cookies.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Alton Brown’s Vanilla Bean Sugar Cookies
These chewy sugar cookies are infused with the sweet, creamy essence of vanilla beans, making them a timeless favorite. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying a batch of these tender treats in no time.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup vanilla bean paste (or 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise)
- Sugar for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt; gradually add to wet ingredients.
5. Stir in vanilla bean paste (or scrape seeds from vanilla bean).
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Alton Brown’s Brown Sugar Pecan Cookies
A simple cookie recipe gets elevated with the addition of brown sugar and toasted pecans, creating a rich and satisfying treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
– 1 cup toasted pecan halves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, then stir in toasted pecans.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Alton Brown’s Salted Caramel Sugar Cookies
Salted Caramel Sugar Cookies: A Delightful Twist on a Classic Treat
These chewy sugar cookies are infused with the richness of salted caramel, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. With a simple technique and quality ingredients, you’ll be enjoying these indulgent bites in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Flaky sea salt, for finishing
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined.
5. Stir in caramel sauce until well incorporated.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt before baking for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Alton Brown’s Chocolate-Dipped Sugar Cookies
These classic sugar cookies get a rich and indulgent twist with the addition of dark chocolate, making them perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
– Dark chocolate chips or bars (at least 60% cocoa solids), for dipping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden. Allow cookies to cool completely.
7. Melt dark chocolate chips or chop dark chocolate bars into small pieces. Dip cooled cookies into melted chocolate and place on parchment paper.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Alton Brown’s Brown Sugar Oatmeal Cookies
These chewy cookies are a perfect blend of sweet and savory, with the warmth of brown sugar and the heartiness of rolled oats.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Alton Brown’s Lemon Glazed Sugar Cookies
Brighten up your snack time with these tangy and sweet sugar cookies, topped with a zesty lemon glaze. A perfect treat for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Lemon glaze (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Lemon Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 tsp salt
Whisk together ingredients until smooth and adjust to desired consistency. Drizzle over cooled cookies.
Alton Brown’s Brown Sugar Ginger Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the richness of brown sugar with the brightness of fresh ginger, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. With a hint of spice and a satisfying crunch from the crystallized ginger, these cookies are sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground ginger
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup crystallized ginger, finely chopped
– 1 large egg
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and ginger.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and crystallized ginger.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Alton Brown’s Coconut Sugar Cookies
These chewy cookies are a sweet twist on traditional sugar cookies, with the added bonus of coconut’s rich flavor and nutritious benefits.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup coconut sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, coconut sugar, and granulated sugar in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and egg until smooth. Add vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Fold in shredded coconut.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Alton Brown’s Brown Sugar Espresso Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the richness of brown sugar with the deep flavor of espresso, creating a delicious treat that’s perfect for coffee lovers and cookie enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup strong brewed espresso, cooled
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Optional: chopped nuts or espresso powder for added texture and flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together butter, white sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients.
5. Stir in espresso and chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the sweet and indulgent world of sugar cookies with these 18 irresistible recipes from Alton Brown! From classic chewy treats to snickerdoodles, shortbread, and more, each recipe combines the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Try the Brown Sugar Snickerdoodles for a twist on a childhood favorite or satisfy your sweet tooth with the Chocolate-Dipped Sugar Cookies. Whether you’re looking for a simple treat or a show-stopping dessert, these decadent sugar cookies are sure to impress.
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