Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
These Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe are a delightful treat that combines the rich, nutty flavor of brown butter with the comforting chewiness of oatmeal. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies stand out not only for their taste but also for their stunning presentation with a sweet vanilla glaze. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or satisfying a sweet tooth, these cookies are sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Flavor: The brown butter adds a deep, nutty flavor that elevates these cookies beyond traditional oatmeal cookies.
- Chewy Texture: With the perfect balance of oats and sugars, each cookie is soft and chewy, making every bite enjoyable.
- Versatile Occasion: Ideal for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or simply as an everyday snack.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with common pantry staples, which makes them easy to whip up whenever the craving strikes.
- Impressive Presentation: Topped with a glossy vanilla icing, they look as good as they taste, making them great for gifting.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into baking these delicious cookies, it’s essential to gather your tools and prepare your kitchen. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or hand mixer: Makes creaming the butter and sugars quick and easy, ensuring a smooth dough.
- Baking sheets: Provides an even surface for baking and helps achieve uniform cookie shapes.
- Cooling rack: Allows cookies to cool evenly and prevents sogginess.
Ingredients
These brown butter iced oatmeal cookies are perfectly soft and chewy, filled with cozy spice flavor and covered in a sweet vanilla glaze. As pretty as they are delicious, these are a holiday favorite year after year!
For the Dough
- 1 1/4 cups (282 g) unsalted butter
- 2 cups (190 g) old fashioned oats
- 2 cups, plus 4 tablespoons (280 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 cup (200 g) light brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla
- 2 tablespoons molasses (not blackstrap)
For the Icing
- 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla
How to Make Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Butter
Start by browning your butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until it melts, foams, and turns golden brown. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, combine:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Baking soda
3. Ground cinnamon
4. Ground nutmeg
5. Salt
Whisk together until well mixed.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl:
1. Pour in the browned butter (let it cool slightly).
2. Add both sugars (light brown sugar and granulated sugar).
3. Beat together using a stand mixer or hand mixer until creamy.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
To the creamed mixture:
1. Add eggs one at a time while mixing.
2. Pour in vanilla extract and molasses.
3. Continue mixing until fully combined.
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture:
1. Mix on low speed until just combined.
2. Fold in old-fashioned oats gently using a spatula.
Step 6: Bake Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
1. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared sheets.
2. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are golden but centers are still soft.
Step 7: Prepare Icing
While cookies cool:
1. In a bowl, mix powdered sugar with milk/heavy cream and vanilla until smooth.
Step 8: Ice Cookies
Once cookies are completely cool:
1. Drizzle or spread icing over each cookie generously.
Now you have delicious Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies ready to share! Enjoy!
How to Serve Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
These brown butter iced oatmeal cookies are delightful on their own, but they can be served in various ways to enhance their charm. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply enjoying a cozy evening at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your cookie experience.
Pair with Milk
- A classic pairing! Enjoy your cookies with a cold glass of milk for a delicious treat.
Serve with Coffee
- These cookies complement coffee beautifully. The rich flavors of brown butter and spices pair perfectly with a warm cup.
Add Ice Cream
- Top a cookie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert that combines chewy texture with creamy goodness.
Arrange on a Platter
- Present your cookies on a decorative platter. This makes for an eye-catching centerpiece during gatherings or celebrations.
Gift in Mason Jars
- Package the cookies in mason jars tied with ribbons for a charming homemade gift that friends and family will adore.
Create Cookie Sandwiches
- Spread frosting or jam between two cookies to create delightful cookie sandwiches that add variety to your dessert table.

How to Perfect Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
To ensure your brown butter iced oatmeal cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Make sure your baking soda and spices are fresh. This enhances the flavor and texture of your cookies.
- Chill the Dough: For softer cookies, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps maintain their shape.
- Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies while baking. They should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center.
- Adjust Icing Consistency: If your icing is too thick, add more milk; if it’s too runny, add more powdered sugar to get the perfect glaze.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste preferences. Adding ginger or allspice can give them an extra kick.
- Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness and softness.
Best Side Dishes for Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
While these cookies are delicious on their own, pairing them with tasty side dishes can create a delightful spread. Here are some great options that complement the flavors of brown butter iced oatmeal cookies.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
- Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda which provide a creamy contrast to the chewy texture.
- Nut Mix: A blend of roasted nuts offers crunch and richness that pairs well with oatmeal flavors.
- Chocolate Fondue: Dip pieces of cookie into warm chocolate for an indulgent experience that’s fun for sharing.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a refreshing dish that complements the cookie’s richness.
- Spiced Chai Latte: Warm spiced chai provides cozy flavors that harmonize beautifully with the spice notes in the cookies.
- Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of pumpkin soup brings comfort and warmth, perfect for chilly days when enjoying these treats.
- Candied Pecans: Sweet and crunchy pecans can be enjoyed alongside or as toppings for added texture and flavor contrasts.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking can be tricky, and it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls when making brown butter iced oatmeal cookies and how to avoid them.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Always ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can lead to uneven mixing and texture issues.
- Not Measuring Flour Correctly: Spoon and level your flour for precise measurement. Scooping directly from the bag can pack it down, resulting in dry cookies.
- Overmixing the Dough: Mix just until combined to keep your cookies soft and chewy. Overmixing develops gluten, making them tough.
- Skipping the Brown Butter Step: Don’t skip browning the butter; it adds a rich flavor that enhances the overall taste of your cookies.
- Ignoring Baking Times: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. Pull them out when they’re just set, as they will continue to firm up while cooling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store brown butter iced oatmeal cookies in an airtight container.
- They will last for up to one week in the refrigerator.
Freezing Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
- Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially.
- Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They will remain fresh for up to three months.
Reheating Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat cookies for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds. Watch closely to prevent overheating.
- Stovetop: Place cookies on a skillet over low heat for a minute or two until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes brown butter iced oatmeal cookies unique?
Brown butter adds a nutty flavor that sets these cookies apart from traditional recipes, enhancing their overall taste.
How do I achieve perfectly browned butter?
To brown butter, melt it over medium heat, stirring frequently until it turns golden brown and smells nutty. Be careful not to burn it!
Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
While old-fashioned oats provide better texture, you can use quick oats if necessary. The cookies may be slightly softer.
How do I customize my brown butter iced oatmeal cookies?
You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit for extra flavor and texture. Experiment with spices like ginger or allspice for variety!
Final Thoughts
These brown butter iced oatmeal cookies are delightful treats perfect for any occasion. Their soft texture and sweet glaze make them irresistible! Feel free to customize with your favorite mix-ins or spices, making this recipe versatile and enjoyable year-round.
Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of our Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies. This delightful recipe features a rich, nutty essence from brown butter, perfectly balanced by the chewiness of old-fashioned oats and topped with a glossy vanilla glaze. Ideal for any occasion—be it festive gatherings or cozy nights in—these cookies not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also impress with their beautiful presentation. With simple ingredients straight from your pantry, you can whip up this charming treat that’s sure to become a favorite among friends and family.
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups unsalted butter
- 2 cups old-fashioned oats
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons molasses (not blackstrap)
- 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla
Instructions
- Brown the butter in a saucepan over medium heat until golden and fragrant.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Cream browned butter with sugars until smooth; add eggs, vanilla, and molasses.
- Gradually incorporate dry ingredients and fold in oats.
- Scoop dough onto parchment-lined baking sheets; bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes.
- Mix powdered sugar with milk and vanilla for icing; drizzle over cooled cookies.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg







