If there’s anything that brings about comfort and nostalgia, it’s the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through your home. Soft and chewy Brown Sugar Amish Cookies are a timeless classic, beloved for their rich, buttery sweetness and melt-in-your-mouth texture. These cookies feature the comforting flavors of brown sugar, which gives them a deep caramel-like taste, and their chewy consistency makes each bite a moment of pure joy. This is a recipe handed down through generations, cherished by families for its simplicity and old-fashioned goodness. What makes Amish cookies so special is their down-to-earth, uncomplicated preparation that yields spectacular results. Whether you’re baking these for a cozy afternoon snack, a gathering of friends, or simply to indulge your sweet tooth, these cookies are sure to win over everyone with their simplicity and incredible taste. So, let’s dive into the art of making these tender and delightful treats!
2. Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for a hint of warmth)
3. Directions
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 3 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and optional ground cinnamon.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix to maintain the soft texture of the cookies.
- Chill the Dough: Cover the dough and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step helps the cookies maintain their shape and enhances their flavor.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Shape and Bake: Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart. Lightly press each ball with the back of a spoon to flatten slightly. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just set and the center is still soft.
- Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. How to Prepare
To prepare these Brown Sugar Amish Cookies, start by creaming the butter and sugar until fluffy, which is essential for creating the perfect cookie texture. After adding the eggs and vanilla, mix your dry ingredients separately to ensure even distribution before combining with the wet mixture. Chilling the dough is a crucial step, as it prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking, resulting in a perfectly chewy consistency. Once the dough is chilled, shape it into even-sized balls and press lightly before baking. The cookies will appear slightly underdone when you remove them from the oven, but they will continue to firm up as they cool, retaining that soft, chewy bite.
5. Preparation Time
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Chilling Time: 30 minutes
- Baking Time: 10 minutes per batch
- Total Time: 1 hour
6. Servings
This recipe yields 24-28 cookies, perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself!).
7. FAQs
Q1: Can I substitute dark brown sugar for light brown sugar?
A: Absolutely! Dark brown sugar will give the cookies a deeper molasses flavor. It’s perfect if you enjoy a richer taste.
Q2: Do I have to chill the dough?
A: Yes, chilling the dough is highly recommended to prevent excessive spreading and to enhance the flavor of the cookies. It also helps maintain that soft, chewy texture.
Q3: How do I store these cookies?
A: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To keep them extra soft, place a slice of bread in the container with the cookies.
Q4: Can I add mix-ins to these cookies?
A: Certainly! Chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even dried fruits would be a lovely addition to these cookies, giving them an extra twist.
Q5: Can I freeze the dough?
A: Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Just scoop out dough balls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Then, transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
8. Conclusion
Soft and Chewy Brown Sugar Amish Cookies are a comforting reminder of simple pleasures. These cookies offer the perfect balance of sweetness, with a rich brown sugar flavor that is hard to resist. The crispy edges paired with the soft, chewy center make them an absolute treat. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of tea, sneaking one for a late-night snack, or sharing them with loved ones, these cookies are sure to bring smiles all around. They’re easy to make, versatile, and loved by both kids and adults. The simplicity of the recipe, combined with the irresistible taste, makes these cookies a timeless classic that you’ll find yourself making again and again. Give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it, and it may just become your go-to cookie recipe for any occasion. Happy baking!