Brown Butter Cinnamon Crinkle Cookies

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The first time I made Brown Butter Cinnamon Crinkle Cookies, I was chasing that nostalgic holiday cookie flavor—but with a twist. These aren’t your average spiced cookies. The rich nuttiness of browned butter paired with the warmth of cinnamon transforms a humble crinkle cookie into something memorable. When I pulled the first batch from the oven, the aroma alone was enough to draw everyone into the kitchen. Then came the first bite—crackly on the outside, soft and chewy on the inside, and packed with a cozy, caramelized spice.

I love these cookies not only because they’re undeniably delicious, but because they feel a little special without needing much effort. They’re simple enough for a weeknight treat and elegant enough for a holiday gift box. If you’ve never browned butter before, don’t worry—I’ll walk you through it. Once you try these, they’ll be a staple in your baking rotation.

Why You’ll Love These Brown Butter Cinnamon Crinkle Cookies

These cookies strike the perfect balance of texture and flavor. You get the signature crinkle cookie look with deep golden edges and powdered sugar-flecked tops, but it’s the browned butter that really elevates them. It adds a nutty, toffee-like depth that plays beautifully with the cinnamon.

They’re also ridiculously easy to make. No fancy tools, no chilling overnight—just a quick mix, roll, and bake. Whether you’re baking for yourself, your family, or a holiday crowd, these cookies deliver maximum flavor with minimal fuss.

What Makes Brown Butter So Special in These Cookies?

Brown butter is simply regular butter cooked until the milk solids caramelize. That process unlocks an intense nutty, almost toffee-like flavor that adds so much complexity to baked goods. In these cookies, it transforms a simple cinnamon-spiced dough into something rich and crave-worthy.

If you’ve never browned butter before, it’s easier than it sounds. You just melt butter over medium heat and watch it carefully as it turns golden brown and smells fragrant. It’s the ultimate flavor booster.

Options for Substitutions

If you’re out of unsalted butter, you can use salted—just reduce the added salt slightly.

You can swap the cinnamon with pumpkin spice or chai spice blend for a different spin.

Need a gluten-free version? Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, but keep an eye on baking time, as texture can vary.

Not into powdered sugar coating? Roll the dough balls in granulated sugar and cinnamon for a snickerdoodle twist.

Want to make it dairy-free? Try using a plant-based butter that browns well, like Miyoko’s or Earth Balance sticks.

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Ingredients for Brown Butter Cinnamon Crinkle Cookies

• Unsalted Butter: Browning the butter is essential here—it adds deep, nutty flavor and a touch of caramel that makes these cookies unforgettable.
• Brown Sugar: It brings moisture and rich molasses notes that complement the cinnamon beautifully.
• Granulated Sugar: Helps with structure and provides just the right amount of sweetness.
• Eggs: Bind the dough and help create that soft, chewy interior.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor and rounds out the warm notes.
• All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure and helps the cookies hold their signature shape.
• Baking Soda: The leavening agent that gives the cookies their lift.
• Salt: Balances out the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
• Ground Cinnamon: The star spice of the recipe—adds warmth, coziness, and that classic holiday feel.
• Powdered Sugar: For rolling the dough to achieve that iconic crinkle top and slight crisp texture.

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Step 1: Brown the Butter

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir constantly. After it foams, it will begin to turn golden brown and smell nutty—this takes about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool for 10 minutes.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the browned butter (including all the brown bits), brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth. Add in the eggs and vanilla extract and mix until the mixture becomes glossy and fully combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. This ensures even distribution of leavening and spices throughout the dough.

Step 4: Make the Dough

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until everything is fully combined. The dough will be soft but manageable.

Step 5: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Place the powdered sugar in a small bowl for rolling.

Step 6: Roll the Cookies

Scoop about 1.5 tablespoons of dough and roll into balls. Roll each ball generously in powdered sugar, making sure it’s well coated.

Step 7: Bake

Place the dough balls 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are cracked on top and lightly golden at the edges. They will still look soft in the center—that’s perfect.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy warm or store for later.

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How Long to Prepare Brown Butter Cinnamon Crinkle Cookies

Prep Time: The prep takes about 20 minutes total. Browning the butter adds a few extra minutes, but it’s well worth it for the rich flavor. Measuring and mixing the ingredients goes quickly, especially if you have everything laid out.

Baking Time: Each batch bakes for about 10–12 minutes. You’ll want to allow a few minutes between batches for the cookies to cool slightly on the sheet. From start to finish, you’re looking at roughly 35–40 minutes including cooling.

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Tips for Perfect Brown Butter Cinnamon Crinkle Cookies

• Let the browned butter cool before mixing it with sugar to avoid cooking the eggs.
• Don’t overmix the dough—just combine until everything is incorporated.
• Chill the dough for 15 minutes if it’s too sticky to roll.
• Be generous with the powdered sugar; it’s key for a dramatic crinkle look.
• Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized cookies that bake evenly.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Over-browning the butter: It can go from golden to burnt quickly. Watch it closely and remove from heat as soon as it turns amber and smells nutty.
• Using hot butter in the dough: Hot butter can scramble the eggs or change the dough texture.
• Skipping the powdered sugar coating: This affects both the appearance and texture.
• Crowding the baking sheet: These cookies spread slightly, so leave space between dough balls.
• Overbaking: The cookies should look slightly underdone in the center when you take them out—they’ll continue cooking on the sheet.

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What to Serve With Brown Butter Cinnamon Crinkle Cookies?

1. Hot Spiced Apple Cider

Warm apple cider pairs beautifully with the cinnamon notes in the cookies.

2. Vanilla Ice Cream

Sandwich two cookies with a scoop of ice cream for a spiced ice cream sandwich.

3. Whipped Coffee (Dalgona)

The bitterness of whipped coffee cuts through the sweetness perfectly.

4. Chai Latte

A cozy spiced drink that enhances the warmth of the cinnamon.

5. Cheese Board

Pair cookies with a sharp cheddar or aged gouda for a sweet-savory contrast on a holiday snack spread.

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Storage Instructions

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Place parchment between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Baked Cookies: Once fully cooled, freeze the cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature.

Freezing Dough: You can also freeze the unbaked dough balls (without powdered sugar) and roll in sugar just before baking. Add 1 extra minute to the baking time if baking from frozen.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Cookie)

• Calories: 160
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 21g
• Sugar: 13g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Sodium: 80mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know the butter is browned correctly?

It should be golden brown with a nutty aroma and small brown bits at the bottom. Remove from heat immediately once it reaches this point.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can refrigerate the dough for up to 48 hours. Let it sit at room temp for 10–15 minutes before scooping.

Can I skip the powdered sugar?

You can, but the crinkle effect will be lost. For a less-sweet option, try rolling in cinnamon sugar instead.

What if I don’t have brown sugar?

You can substitute with white sugar and a tablespoon of molasses for a similar flavor and texture.

How do I keep the cookies soft for days?

Store them with a slice of bread in the container. The moisture from the bread keeps the cookies tender.

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Conclusion

Brown Butter Cinnamon Crinkle Cookies are proof that a simple recipe with a small twist can create big flavor. Browning the butter adds depth, cinnamon brings comfort, and the crinkle top adds a touch of festive flair. Whether you’re baking a holiday batch or just need a cozy afternoon treat, these cookies are sure to hit the spot. Keep them in your cookie rotation—they’re easy, impressive, and undeniably delicious.

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