If you think all chocolate chip cookies are created equal, brace yourself for a delightful twist that will shake up your dessert game. Enter the Vietnamese Cinnamon Chocolate Chip Cookies with Brown Butter—an irresistible treat that combines the warm, aromatic notes of Vietnamese cinnamon with the rich, nutty flavor of brown butter. Not only are these cookies surprisingly easy to make, but they also offer a wonderfully unique flavor profile that sets them apart from your classic recipe. With a chewy center and crisp edges, they’re perfect for satisfying your cookie cravings without overwhelming your palate with sweetness. Who knew a simple kitchen bake could transport you to a cozy café abroad? Curious how this fusion of flavors creates such magic? Let’s dive in!
Why Are These Cookies So Unique?
Unique Flavor Fusion: The addition of Vietnamese cinnamon gives these cookies a warmth that elevates the classic chocolate chip cookie experience.
Brown Butter Goodness: Browning the butter not only adds a nutty richness but also enhances the complexities of each bite.
Perfectly Chewy Texture: Enjoy a chewy center with crispy edges, striking the ideal balance that cookie lovers crave.
Quick and Convenient: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll whip these up in no time—perfect for a busy day!
Impress Your Guests: Serve these cookies warm with a glass of milk or coffee, and watch as your friends fall in love with this delectable twist. You might also enjoy trying both Chocolate Chips Cookies and Swiss Chocolate Chalet for more delightful baking adventures.
Cinnamon Chocolate Chip Cookies Ingredients
Here’s what you need to create these delectable treats that will steal your heart!
For the Cookie Dough
- All-purpose flour – Provides structure to the cookie; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
- Baking soda – Helps cookies rise and achieve that perfect spread.
- Salt – Balances sweetness while enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Espresso powder – Deepens the rich chocolate flavor; you can use finely ground dark roast coffee if you don’t have it on hand.
- Vietnamese cinnamon – Infuses warm spice notes that elevate these cookies; regular cinnamon works but may lack the same depth.
- Unsalted butter – Creates a tender texture, and browning it enhances its flavor; opt for vegan butter if needed.
- Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and contributes to a crisp edge.
- Dark brown sugar – Brings moisture and a hint of caramel flavor into the mix.
- Light brown sugar – Balances sweetness and adds a beautiful color to the cookies.
- Egg – Binds ingredients together and adds moisture; aquafaba is a fantastic vegan substitute.
- Vanilla extract – Enriches the overall flavor with aromatic sweetness.
- Dark chocolate chips – Adds a rich, gooey texture; feel free to swap for milk or white chocolate based on your preference.
Bring these ingredients together for a batch of cinnamon chocolate chip cookies that will leave everyone wanting more!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Vietnamese Cinnamon Chocolate Chip Cookies
Step 1: Brown the Butter
In a medium saucepan, melt 1 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat, stirring frequently. Continue cooking for about 5-7 minutes until the butter turns a golden brown and develops a nutty aroma. Once browned, remove from heat and let it cool for 10 minutes to avoid a greasy dough later.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 2 ¼ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of salt, 1 tablespoon of espresso powder, and 1 tablespoon of Vietnamese cinnamon. This dry mixture will build the structure of your Vietnamese Cinnamon Chocolate Chip Cookies, so ensure everything is combined evenly before setting it aside.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In the bowl with the cooled brown butter, incorporate ½ cup of granulated sugar, ½ cup of dark brown sugar, and ½ cup of light brown sugar. Whisk these together until they create a smooth blend. Then add 1 large room-temperature egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until the mixture is uniform and creamy.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gently fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture using a rubber spatula. Be careful not to overmix; stop when traces of flour remain visible in the dough, which ensures your Vietnamese Cinnamon Chocolate Chip Cookies stay tender and chewy.
Step 5: Add Chocolate Chips
Now, fold in 1 cup of dark chocolate chips, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough. This step adds a rich, gooey texture that complements the warm spice of the Vietnamese cinnamon, making your cookies irresistibly tempting.
Step 6: Chill Dough
Cover the cookie dough with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 45 minutes. Chilling the dough is crucial to prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking and ensures a thicker, chewier cookie.
Step 7: Preheat Oven
While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper, preparing for the delightful Vietnamese Cinnamon Chocolate Chip Cookies you’re about to bake. This preheating step ensures that your cookies bake evenly.
Step 8: Scoop and Bake
Once the dough has chilled, use a medium cookie scoop to portion out the dough, placing balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Bake for 14-16 minutes, or until the edges are light brown and firm while the centers remain soft and slightly underbaked.
Step 9: Cool Cookies
Let the cookies rest on the baking sheets for about 10 minutes after removing them from the oven. This resting period allows the edges to crisp up perfectly while the centers continue to bake slightly. Afterward, transfer them onto a wire rack to cool fully and enjoy the delightful aroma!
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Butter Temperature Matters: Allow the browned butter to cool before mixing; this prevents a greasy dough that can affect texture.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ingredients like eggs should be at room temperature for better mixing, resulting in a smoother dough.
- No Overmixing: Mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to tough cookies rather than the tender consistency you desire in these cinnamon chocolate chip cookies.
- Chill is Essential: Don’t skip refrigerating the dough for at least 45 minutes; this plays a key role in achieving that delightful chewy texture.
- Mind the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies; they should be light brown around the edges and slightly underbaked in the center for a perfect bite.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to swap in nuts or dried fruit, or try different spices to customize your cinnamon chocolate chip cookies to your taste!
Cinnamon Chocolate Chip Cookies Variations
Get ready to personalize your baking experience with these exciting twists that will make every bite unique and delightful.
-
Nutty Delight: Swap in walnuts or pecans for added crunch and a delicious nutty flavor. A perfect blend with chocolate!
-
Fruity Surprise: Substitute dark chocolate chips with dried cranberries or apricots for a chewy, fruity variation. This twist brightens up each bite!
-
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper for a surprising heat that complements the sweetness beautifully. It’s a delightful fusion of flavors!
-
Dairy-Free: Use a vegan butter alternative and aquafaba instead of eggs for a completely dairy-free indulgence. No one will miss a thing in taste!
-
Flavored Chips: Experiment with mint chocolate or peanut butter chips instead of traditional chocolate for a fun flavor twist. Your taste buds will thank you!
-
Choco-Cinnamon Marbling: Create a marbled effect by swirling melted chocolate into the dough before baking, giving an eye-catching and tasty finish.
-
Double the Spice: Add a bit of nutmeg or cardamom for a warm spice blend that will make your cookies even more aromatic and flavorful. A cozy extra layer!
-
Cookie Sandwiches: Make them even more indulgent by using these lovely cookies to create sandwiches with cream cheese frosting or your favorite ice cream filling. An unforgettable experience awaits!
Embrace your creativity with these variations and watch how each batch becomes a unique masterpiece. You might also want to check out these delightful recipes: Chocolate Chips Cookies and Cool Whip Cookies, or explore the secrets of the Art Balancing Cinnamon for even more inspiration!
Make Ahead Options
These Vietnamese Cinnamon Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by following these simple steps. After mixing the dough, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. This chilling not only enhances the flavors but prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking. When ready to enjoy, simply scoop and bake directly from the fridge—no thawing necessary! For extra convenience, you can also freeze the dough for up to 3 months; just scoop the dough balls onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to an airtight container. When you’re ready, bake them straight from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time for fresh cookies with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Vietnamese Cinnamon Chocolate Chip Cookies
Who could resist the tantalizing aroma of warm cookies fresh from the oven? Pair these delightful treats with complementary flavors for a memorable dessert experience.
- Rich Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream beautifully balances the spiced notes of the cookies for pure bliss.
- Fresh Berries: Juicy raspberries or strawberries add a bright, tangy contrast, enhancing the cookie’s flavors and offering a refreshing bite.
- Espresso or Coffee: The deep, rich flavors of espresso elevate the chocolate notes, while the warmth provides a cozy element, making it the perfect pairing.
- Nutty Hot Chocolate: A warm cup of hot chocolate with a hint of nutmeg and marshmallows creates a comforting, indulgent dessert combination.
- Milk: Simple yet classic, a glass of cold milk cuts through the sweetness and enhances the delightful chewiness of the cookies.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over the cookies adds a luxurious, buttery sweetness that pairs wonderfully with their spiced character.
You’ll find endless ways to enjoy these cinnamon chocolate chip cookies, the perfect canvas for delicious accompaniments!
Storage Tips for Cinnamon Chocolate Chip Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness and chewiness.
Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, store them in the fridge for up to 1 week. Just let them come to room temperature before enjoying!
Freezer: For extended storage, freeze the cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Enjoy them by thawing at room temperature or reheating in the oven.
Cookie Dough: You can also freeze the unbaked dough for up to 3 months. Just scoop the dough into balls, freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag for an easy bake whenever cravings strike!
Vietnamese Cinnamon Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select Vietnamese cinnamon for this recipe?
Absolutely! For making Vietnamese Cinnamon Chocolate Chip Cookies, look for high-quality Vietnamese cinnamon known for its sweet, warm flavor and richer aroma compared to regular cinnamon. Choose whole sticks and grind them yourself for the freshest flavor. If you can’t find Vietnamese cinnamon, Ceylon cinnamon is a good second option, but it may not provide the same depth.
How should I store the cookies after baking?
Store your delightful cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This method keeps the cookies soft and chewy. If you’d like to extend their freshness, place them in the refrigerator for up to a week, but let them come to room temperature before enjoying to get that delightful chewiness back!
Can I freeze these cookies or the dough?
Very much! To freeze the unbaked dough, scoop out cookie balls onto a baking sheet and freeze for about 1 hour. Once firm, transfer them to an airtight bag for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, you can bake them straight from frozen, just add an extra minute or two to the baking time. For baked cookies, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.
What should I do if my cookies turn out too flat?
If your cookies spread too much, it’s often a sign that the dough was too warm when placed in the oven or that it wasn’t chilled long enough. Next time, try chilling the dough for an additional 15-30 minutes. Additionally, ensure you’re measuring your flour correctly, as too little can lead to flat cookies. Make sure you’re also using the right baking sheets—non-stick or lined with parchment can help!
Are these cookies suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! For a gluten-free version of the Vietnamese Cinnamon Chocolate Chip Cookies, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. To make them dairy-free, opt for a vegan butter alternative. If anyone has egg allergies, aquafaba can be used as a substitute. This way, everyone can enjoy these delightful cookies!
What should I do if my cookies don’t get a nice golden color?
If your cookies lack that beautiful golden hue, double-check your oven temperature since inaccurate settings can affect baking results. Ensure you’re baking on the middle rack for even baking, and feel free to rotate your baking sheets halfway through to guarantee the cookies get that gorgeous color.
Cinnamon Chocolate Chip Cookies that Will Steal Your Heart
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium saucepan, melt 1 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat, stirring frequently for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together 2 ¼ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of salt, 1 tablespoon of espresso powder, and 1 tablespoon of Vietnamese cinnamon.
- In the bowl with the cooled brown butter, incorporate ½ cup each of granulated, dark brown, and light brown sugars. Add 1 egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until creamy.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful not to overmix.
- Fold in 1 cup of dark chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 45 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Scoop the dough with a medium cookie scoop, placing balls about 2 inches apart on the baking sheets. Bake for 14-16 minutes.
- Let the cookies rest on the baking sheets for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
