If you love the creamy richness of classic crème brûlée but are craving a handheld treat, this Crème Brûlée Cookies Recipe is about to become your new obsession. Imagine a soft, tender cookie bursting with vanilla and almond notes, crowned with luscious cream cheese frosting, and finished with that iconic crisp, caramelized sugar top. It beautifully captures the essence of the traditional French dessert in every bite, making it perfect for sharing or indulging anytime you want a little luxury in cookie form.

The image shows two soft, thick cookies stacked on top of each other placed on a white marbled surface. Each cookie has a light golden color with a slightly cracked texture at the edges. The top cookie is covered with a smooth layer of creamy white icing that has a caramelized brown top layer, suggesting it has been torched or baked to give it a shiny, slightly burnt look. One cookie has a bite taken out, showing a dense but soft crumb texture inside. Additional similar cookies are blurred in the background, creating a warm and inviting feel. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients may look simple, but each one plays a crucial role in achieving that heavenly texture and flavor. From the creamy butter and cream cheese that make the cookies tender and luscious to the balance of sugars creating that perfect brûlée crunch, this list sets the foundation for a truly delightful treat.

1/2 cup unsalted butter: Provides richness and helps create a tender crumb in the cookies.
1/2 cup canola or vegetable oil: Adds moisture and keeps the cookies soft and chewy.
1/2 cup granulated sugar: Gives sweetness and helps with the caramelization on top.
1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar: Contributes to the cookie’s delicate texture and frosting smoothness.
1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds structure.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses warm flavor that’s essential to that classic crème brûlée profile.
1 teaspoon almond extract: Adds a subtle nutty depth that’s irresistible.
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure needed for the cookies to hold their shape while staying soft.
1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Leavens gently to give the cookies a light texture.
1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar: Adds a slight tang and works with baking soda for even rise.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
8 ounces cream cheese, softened: Essential for the rich, tangy frosting that complements the cookie perfectly.
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened: For silky, creamy frosting that spreads effortlessly.
2 1/2 to 3 cups confectioners’ sugar: Adjust for desired frosting sweetness and consistency.
Granulated sugar (about 1/2 to 1 teaspoon per cookie): For that iconic brûléed sugar crust on top.

How to Make Crème Brûlée Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Beat Wet Ingredients

Start by creaming together the butter, oil, granulated sugar, and confectioners’ sugar. Using a stand mixer with the paddle attachment really helps achieve that perfectly combined, fluffy mixture. The butter and oil together create a luscious texture that’s both tender and moist – the base for your dream cookie.

Step 2: Add Egg and Extracts

Next, incorporate the egg along with the vanilla and almond extracts. These extracts are pure magic here, filling the dough with a warm, slightly nutty aroma that will become the soul of our cookies. Mix it just until combined to keep the batter light and airy.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

Whisk together your flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt before adding them to the wet mixture on a low speed. This step ensures even distribution and keeps the dough from becoming tough. The cream of tartar is a clever addition, lending a subtle tang and extra lift that mimics the tender bite of crème brûlée custard.

Step 4: Portion and Chill Dough

Use a 2-tablespoon cookie scoop or your hands to form about 20 even dough mounds. Flatten each dough ball halfway and chill the tray wrapped in plastic for at least 2 hours. Chilling is a must here to prevent excess spreading so your cookies keep that perfect shape and thickness — plus it helps develop flavor depth.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare your baking sheet with a Silpat or cooking spray. Space your cookie mounds about 2 inches apart, then bake for roughly 8 minutes until the edges are set and the centers look glossy but are not completely firm—this light underbake helps keep them soft once cooled.

Step 6: Cool before Frosting

Allow the cookies to cool right on the baking sheet. This gentle cooling keeps them tender and prevents cracking once you spread on the frosting. Patience at this stage pays off big with great texture!

Step 7: Make Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat your softened cream cheese and butter until fluffy and light. Gradually add in confectioners’ sugar, adjusting for your ideal frosting thickness. This creamy layer is what brings the cookie to life, delivering that tangy, sweet richness that contrasts beautifully with the crunchy brûléed sugar topping.

Step 8: Ice and Brûlée the Cookies

Spread about 2 to 3 teaspoons of frosting on each cooled cookie, smoothing it gently. Then sprinkle a half to one teaspoon of granulated sugar on top of the frosting before using a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar. A few seconds of torching transforms these cookies, creating that signature crisp brûlée shell which cracks delightfully with the first bite.

How to Serve Crème Brûlée Cookies Recipe

Crème Brûlée Cookies Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Simple is best when it comes to garnishes for these cookies. A tiny dusting of cinnamon or a few fresh berries on the side can add a lovely touch of color and subtle flavor contrast without overpowering the delicate vanilla and caramel notes. If you want to fancy them up, edible gold flakes add a luxe, decadent sparkle perfect for special occasions.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a cup of rich espresso or a smooth cup of chamomile tea. The bitterness of coffee contrasts beautifully with the sweet brûlée topping, while a gentle herbal brew complements the almond and vanilla without stealing the spotlight. Fresh fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream also make delightful companions.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking these cookies on a pretty platter for a stunning dessert display or arrange them in a jar with layers of with extra granulated sugar and crushed vanilla beans for an inviting gift idea. For an elegant twist, serve with a side of crème anglaise drizzle or even as an accompaniment to a dessert wine tasting night – everyone will be impressed!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once prepared, store your crème brûlée cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The frosting will stay fresh and the cookies remain tender for up to 5 days. Keep them well covered to prevent the sugar crust from moisture-softening.

Freezing

You can freeze the cookies before frosting by wrapping each cookie individually and placing them in an airtight freezer bag for up to 3 months. For best results, add frosting and brûlée sugar topping after thawing and cooling the cookies at room temperature.

Reheating

If you want that freshly torched sugar, use a kitchen torch to re-brûlée the cookies right before serving. Avoid reheating in the oven or microwave as this can soften the cookies too much and dull the crispy sugar crust.

FAQs

Can I use another extract if I don’t have almond extract?

Definitely! While almond extract adds a lovely nuanced flavor, you can substitute with a little extra vanilla extract or even a touch of hazelnut extract for a slightly different but just as delicious twist.

What type of sugar works best for the brûlée topping?

Granulated sugar is ideal because it caramelizes quickly and gives you that classic crackling crust. Avoid using brown sugar or powdered sugar, as they won’t properly brûlée.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

You’ll need to swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend that includes xanthan gum to keep the texture right. Expect a slightly different crumb, but the flavor will still impress.

Is the kitchen torch necessary?

While the torch is essential for that authentic brûlée crust, if you don’t have one, you can briefly broil the cookies in your oven on high watching carefully. Just be sure not to overdo it to avoid melting the frosting.

How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?

Chilling the dough for at least 2 hours is key. Cold dough holds its shape better in the oven, ensuring that your cookies stay thick and soft instead of thin and crisp.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Crème Brûlée Cookies Recipe, you’ll see why it’s a standout favorite. It delivers that luxurious custard experience in a fun, shareable way, with the most satisfying crunch of caramelized sugar on top. This recipe is a little slice of elegance you can bake at home anytime you want to treat yourself and your loved ones to something truly special. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Crème Brûlée Cookies Recipe