Brown Butter Frosting Stuffed Cookie Sandwiches

Name: Brown Butter Frosting
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 2
Ingredients: 1/2 cup butter; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste; smash of milk

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11 months ago

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Brown butter frosting is the perfect creamy filling for these browned butter cookie sandwiches. The nutty flavor from the brown butter pairs perfectly with the sweet cookie.

The Magic of Brown Butter:

What Kind of Butter Is Best For Browning Butter?

Choosing the right type of butter is essential for achieving the best flavor and results when browning butter. Here are some considerations for selecting the best butter for this process:

Unsalted Butter:

Unsalted butter is generally recommended for browning. This allows you to have better control over the salt content in your recipes. If you use salted butter, the salt concentration can become more pronounced as the water content evaporates during the browning process.

High-Quality Butter:

Opt for high-quality butter, preferably made from fresh cream and without artificial additives. Quality butter will have a more pronounced and desirable flavor after browning.

European-Style Butter:

European-style butter, with its higher butterfat content (82% or more), is an excellent choice for browning. It has a rich and creamy flavor profile, which intensifies during the browning process.

Cultured Butter:

Cultured butter is made by fermenting cream before churning. This type of butter has a distinct tangy flavor that adds complexity to the browning process. If you enjoy a richer and more nuanced taste, cultured butter can be an excellent choice.

Grass-Fed Butter:

Butter from grass-fed cows tends to have a more vibrant yellow color and a richer flavor due to the cows’ diet. This can enhance the overall depth of flavor when browning butter.

How Do You Brown Butter Without Burning It?

Choose the Right Pan:

Select a light-colored pan with a heavy bottom to ensure even heat distribution. This will make it easier to monitor the color change as the butter browns.

Cut the Butter:

Cut the butter into uniform-sized pieces. This allows for more even melting and browning.

Melt the Butter:

Place the butter pieces in the chosen pan over medium heat. Allow the butter to melt completely.

Bring to a Simmer:

Once the butter has melted, reduce the heat to medium-low. The butter will start to bubble and simmer. Swirl the pan occasionally to ensure even melting.

Watch for Foaming:

As the butter continues to simmer, it will start to foam. This is a sign that the water content in the butter is evaporating.

Color Change Begins:

Keep a close eye on the butter as it transitions from foaming to browning. Tiny brown specks will start to form at the bottom of the pan.

Swirl the Pan:

Continuously swirl the pan to prevent the butter from burning. The foaming will subside, and the color will deepen.

Smell the Aroma:

Browning butter is not only about visual cues but also about aroma. The butter will emit a nutty fragrance, indicating that it’s reaching the desired flavor profile.

Remove from Heat:

Once the butter achieves a rich, golden brown color and releases a nutty aroma, remove the pan from the heat immediately. The residual heat will continue to cook the butter even after removing it from the stove.

Transfer to a Cool Container:

To prevent overcooking, quickly transfer the browned butter to a heat-resistant container or bowl. This will stop the cooking process and cool the butter.

Strain (Optional):

If desired, you can strain the browned butter to remove any darker sediment at the bottom. However, many recipes embrace these flavorful browned bits.

Use or Store:

Browned butter is ready to use in your favorite recipes. Alternatively, let it solidify in the refrigerator if you plan to use it later. Remember that it solidifies more quickly than regular butter due to the water content reduction

How Do You Harden Brown Butter?

Just place your brown butter in the fridge for about 30 minutes. The brown butter will harden and solidify.

Tips For This Recipe:

Be vigilant during the browning process, as butter can go from browned to burned quickly.
The size and thickness of the pan can affect the browning time, so adjustments may be needed based on your specific cookware.
Browning butter is an art, and the more you practice, the better you’ll become at recognizing the visual and aromatic cues.
Browning butter requires close attention to avoid burning. As soon as it reaches a golden brown color and emits a nutty aroma, remove it from heat.
Ensure the browned butter is solidified and at room temperature before incorporating it into the frosting. This prevents the frosting from becoming too runny.
Add powdered sugar gradually and taste as you go. This allows you to adjust the sweetness to your liking.
Explore flavor variations by adding ingredients like cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a splash of bourbon for an extra layer of complexity.

Brown Butter Frosting Ingredients:

Butter: Use a good quality butter.

Powdered Sugar: No need to sift the powdered sugar.

Vanilla Extract or Vanilla Bean Paste: I prefer vanilla bean paste as it has little vanilla bean specks running through it.

Milk: Use any type of milk you have on hand.

How To Make Brown Butter Frosting:

Brown the Butter:

In a light-colored pan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Allow it to simmer, swirling the pan occasionally. Watch for the butter to turn a rich golden brown and emit a nutty fragrance. Be vigilant, as the browning process can happen quickly.

Cool the Browned Butter:

Transfer the browned butter to a heat-resistant container and let it cool in the refrigerator for 20 minutes. It’s essential for the butter to be cool when incorporating it into the frosting.

Prepare the Frosting Base:

In a mixing bowl, beat the cooled browned butter until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar gradually, incorporating it into the butter.

Add Liquid and Flavor:

Add a splash of the milk slowly while continuing to beat the frosting. This helps achieve the desired consistency. Add the vanilla bean paste or extract.

Beat Until Fluffy:

Continue beating the frosting until it becomes light, fluffy, and holds its shape. Adjust the powdered sugar or liquid as needed to achieve the desired texture.

Brown Butter Frosting Uses:

Cakes and Cupcakes:

Spread or pipe brown butter frosting on your favorite cakes or cupcakes. It pairs exceptionally well with flavors like vanilla, chocolate, spice, and carrot.

Cookies and Bars:

Frost cookies, bars, or brownies with brown butter frosting for an extra layer of decadence. It complements the sweetness of the treats and adds a sophisticated twist.

Cinnamon Rolls or Pastries:

Enhance the flavor of your cinnamon rolls or pastries by slathering them with a generous layer of brown butter frosting. The nutty notes elevate the overall experience.

Pies and Tarts:

Use brown butter frosting as a filling or topping for pies and tarts. Its richness adds depth to fruity or creamy desserts.

Doughnuts or Pancakes:

Drizzle brown butter frosting over freshly made doughnuts or pancakes for a delightful breakfast treat. The warm, nutty flavor is a perfect morning indulgence.

Storage:

Store the frosting in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the frosting for up to 3 months. Thaw the frosting and whip for 1-2 minutes before using from frozen.

Enjoy this delicious brown butter frosting recipe! Make sure to scroll all the way

Brown Butter Frosting Recipe:

Makes 2 cups