The rich, nutty flavor of browned butter is a game-changer in many dishes. Whether you’re baking sweet treats or cooking savory meals, this simple ingredient can elevate your creations to new heights. In this article, we’ll dive into 18 decadent brown butter recipes that will leave you wanting more. From classic cookies and cakes to innovative pasta dishes and savory sides, we’ve got you covered.
Take a look at some of the mouthwatering options below:
Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
Elevate your cookie game with this simple recipe that combines the richness of browned butter and dark chocolate chips. The result is a chewy, crunchy, and utterly delicious treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– Optional: chopped nuts or sea salt for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Brown the butter in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it has a nutty aroma and light brown color (about 5-7 minutes).
3. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the flour, baking soda, and salt to the wet ingredients. Whisk until just combined.
5. Stir in the browned butter and chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Brown Butter Sage Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this simple yet impressive dish that combines the nutty flavor of brown butter with the earthy sweetness of sage. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage leaves
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the butter turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Add chopped sage leaves to the browned butter and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Combine cooked spaghetti, brown butter mixture, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper in a large serving bowl. If using chicken broth, add it to the pasta and toss until well coated.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional sage leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Brown Butter Banana Bread
Brown Butter Banana Bread: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Recipe
This moist and flavorful banana bread gets its signature flavor from the rich aroma of brown butter, which adds depth and complexity to the traditional recipe. Perfect for a cozy afternoon treat or as a gift for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Continue cooking until the butter turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in mashed bananas, flour, baking powder, salt, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Brown Butter Rice Krispie Treats
Take your favorite childhood snack to the next level by adding a nutty, caramel-like flavor with brown butter. These treats are perfect for any occasion or as a special treat for kids and adults alike.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
– 12 tablespoons (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 2 cups marshmallows
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: chopped nuts, dried fruit, or sprinkles for added texture and color
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Continue cooking the butter until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and add marshmallows. Stir until melted and smooth.
4. Add Rice Krispies cereal and salt. Mix until well combined.
5. Press mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: About 10 minutes (including browning the butter)
Brown Butter Lobster Rolls
Elevate your seafood game with this decadent Brown Butter Lobster Rolls recipe, featuring succulent lobster meat wrapped in a buttery, toasted bun. Perfect for special occasions or a indulgent treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lobster meat (claw and body)
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 hamburger buns
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a griddle or skillet over medium heat.
2. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter until it turns golden brown, stirring occasionally (about 5 minutes).
3. Split the hamburger buns in half and toast on the griddle for 2-3 minutes.
4. Mix lobster meat with mayonnaise, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Spoon the lobster mixture onto the toasted buns, leaving a small border at the top.
6. Drizzle the brown butter over the lobster, then garnish with parsley or chives.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Brown Butter Pecan Pie
This classic Southern dessert gets a boost from the deep, caramel-like flavor of brown butter, perfectly balanced with toasted pecans. The result is a rich and indulgent pie that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 1 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Continue cooking until butter turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and whisk in corn syrup, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
4. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Stir in pecan halves.
6. Roll out pie crust and fill with the brown butter mixture.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until filling is set.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your mashed potato game with this simple yet indulgent recipe that adds a nutty, caramel flavor from browned butter. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, chives, or grated cheese for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the browned butter (see below), milk, salt, and any desired additional flavorings. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until smooth and creamy.
Browning the Butter:
1. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
2. Continue cooking the butter, stirring occasionally, until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before using in the recipe.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Brown Butter Blondies
These chewy blondies are elevated by the deep, caramel-like flavor of browned butter, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying these indulgent bars in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: chopped nuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Continue cooking until butter turns golden brown and smells nutty, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in sugars until dissolved. Let cool slightly.
4. Whisk in eggs and vanilla extract. Gradually add flour, baking powder, and salt; mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Brown Butter Roasted Carrots
A sweet and nutty twist on classic roasted carrots, this recipe brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables by browning butter and combining it with aromatic spices. Perfect as a side dish or added to salads and bowls.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped into 1/2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
3. Add chopped carrots to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Spread the carrot mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a single layer.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until the carrots are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Brown Butter Apple Crisp
This autumnal dessert combines tender apples with a rich brown butter crust, topped with a crunchy oat topping. Perfect for a cozy evening or potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
3. Continue cooking the butter until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Add sliced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until apples are tender.
5. Transfer the apple mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
6. In a separate bowl, mix together rolled oats and a pinch of salt.
7. Top the apple mixture with the oat mixture.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Brown Butter Scallops
Elevate your scallop game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the richness of browned butter with the tender sweetness of fresh scallops.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse scallops under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Continue cooking until butter turns golden brown and nutty, stirring occasionally (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add white wine (if using) and bring to a simmer. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
6. Add scallops to the skillet, spooning some of the brown butter mixture over them.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until scallops are cooked through.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or chives.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Brown Butter Pumpkin Spice Cake
This moist and aromatic cake combines the comfort of pumpkin spice with the nutty goodness of brown butter, perfect for a cozy fall evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together butter, pumpkin puree, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Brown Butter Popcorn
Elevate your popcorn game with this easy recipe that yields a deliciously rich and nutty flavor profile. Perfect for movie nights or as a snack to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup (100g) popcorn kernels
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: 1 tablespoon brown sugar, 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Popcorn kernels in a large pot or using an air popper.
2. Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Continue cooking until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and pour the browned butter over the popped popcorn while still warm. Toss to combine.
4. Sprinkle with salt to taste. If desired, add brown sugar and cinnamon for an extra boost of flavor.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (includes popping time)
Brown Butter Cornbread
A sweet and savory twist on traditional cornbread, this recipe uses browned butter to add a rich, nutty flavor that complements the natural sweetness of the corn. Perfect for serving alongside your favorite soups or stews.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, browned
– 1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. Whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and browned butter.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in corn kernels.
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Brown Butter Chocolate Tart
Elevate your dessert game with this indulgent treat that combines the nutty flavor of brown butter with the richness of dark chocolate. This tart is perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out puff pastry and place in a 9-inch tart pan.
2. In a medium skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until butter turns golden brown and smells nutty, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and whisk in confectioners’ sugar, flour, and salt.
4. Pour brown butter mixture into prepared tart shell.
5. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
6. Pour melted chocolate over brown butter mixture.
7. Drizzle with heavy cream and honey.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Brown Butter Brussels Sprouts
Transform ordinary Brussels sprouts into a sweet and nutty masterpiece by browning the butter and caramelizing the greens. This simple yet impressive side dish is perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for some heat)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
3. Continue cooking the butter, stirring occasionally, until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Add Brussels sprouts to the skillet, cut side down. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until they start to caramelize.
5. Flip the sprouts and continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes.
Brown Butter Shortbread Cookies
Elevate your shortbread game with the deep, nutty flavor of brown butter in these crumbly cookies. Perfect for dunking in tea or serving as a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Optional: confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
- Brown the butter: In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Continue cooking until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma (about 5-7 minutes).
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
- Mix in browned butter: Add the cooled brown butter to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
- Scoop and bake: Use a cookie scoop or spoon to portion out the dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Yield: About 24 cookies
Brown Butter Pancakes
Take your pancake game to the next level with these rich and indulgent brown butter pancakes, featuring a deep nutty flavor from caramelized butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons browned butter (see note)
– Fresh fruit or syrup for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and browned butter until smooth.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Drop 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the preheated skillet or griddle.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich, nutty flavor of brown butter with these 18 decadent recipes! From sweet treats like Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies and Brown Butter Pecan Pie, to savory dishes like Brown Butter Sage Pasta and Brown Butter Lobster Rolls, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of comfort food or gourmet cuisine, the deep, caramel-like flavor of brown butter is sure to elevate any dish. So go ahead, get nutty with these irresistible recipes!