Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
These Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe are a delightful treat that combines the rich, nutty flavor of brown butter with the wholesome goodness of oatmeal. Perfect for any occasion, from holiday celebrations to cozy family gatherings, these cookies offer a unique twist on a classic favorite. With their soft and chewy texture, they are sure to impress both friends and family alike. The sweet vanilla glaze adds an irresistible finish that makes these cookies not only delicious but also visually appealing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of brown butter, oats, and warm spices creates an irresistible taste that is comforting and satisfying.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
- Versatile Treat: Great for holidays, parties, or just a sweet snack at home; these cookies fit any occasion seamlessly.
- Customizable Glaze: You can adjust the sweetness or add flavors to the icing based on your preferences.
- Perfectly Soft Texture: These cookies maintain their chewiness even after cooling down, making them a favorite among cookie lovers.
Tools and Preparation
Before getting started with your Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe, gather the essential tools you’ll need for baking. Having everything ready will streamline the process and ensure a successful outcome.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without spilling.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure consistent results in every batch.
- Baking sheets: Provides an even surface for baking multiple cookies at once.
Ingredients
These brown butter iced oatmeal cookies are perfectly soft and chewy, filled with cozy spice flavor and covered in a sweet vanilla glaze. As pretty as they are delicious, these are a holiday favorite year after year!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/4 cups (282 g) unsalted butter
– 2 cups (190 g) old fashioned oats
– 2 cups, plus 4 tablespoons (280 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
– 2 teaspoons baking soda
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
– 1 cup (200 g) light brown sugar, packed
– 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs, room temperature
– 2 teaspoons vanilla
– 2 tablespoons molasses (not blackstrap)
– 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
– 3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla
How to Make Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Butter
Start by melting the unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until it turns golden brown, releasing a nutty aroma. This usually takes about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
Step 3: Combine Sugars
In another large bowl, combine the light brown sugar and granulated sugar with the browned butter. Mix well using a rubber spatula until creamy.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Beat in the eggs one at a time into the sugar mixture. Then mix in the vanilla extract and molasses until fully incorporated.
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir until just combined; do not overmix. Finally, fold in the old-fashioned oats until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto prepared sheets about two inches apart. Bake for about 10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Step 7: Prepare Glaze
While cookies cool, whisk together sifted powdered sugar, milk or heavy cream, and additional vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth.
Step 8: Ice Cookies
Once cooled completely, drizzle or spread the glaze on top of each cookie. Allow them to set before serving.
Enjoy your freshly baked Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies!
How to Serve Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
These brown butter iced oatmeal cookies are not just delightful treats; they can also be served in various ways to enhance their flavor and presentation. Here are some serving suggestions to make your cookie experience even more enjoyable.
With a Glass of Milk
- Pair these cookies with a cold glass of milk for a classic treat. The creamy texture complements the chewy cookies perfectly.
As a Dessert Platter
- Arrange the cookies on a beautiful platter with other holiday treats. This creates an inviting dessert table that guests will love.
On Top of Ice Cream
- Crumble the cookies over vanilla ice cream for a delicious sundae. The warm flavors blend beautifully with the cold ice cream.
With Coffee or Tea
- Serve these cookies alongside your favorite coffee or tea. The spices in the cookies pair well with warm beverages, making them an excellent afternoon snack.
Gift-Wrapped Treats
- Package the cookies in decorative bags as gifts. These homemade treats are perfect for sharing during holidays or special occasions.

How to Perfect Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
To achieve the best results with your brown butter iced oatmeal cookies, consider these helpful tips that will elevate your baking game.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking soda and spices are fresh. This enhances flavor and helps the cookies rise properly.
- Brown the Butter Correctly: Watch the butter closely as it browns. It should have a nutty aroma and golden color without burning for optimal flavor.
- Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough for at least 30 minutes helps prevent spreading and gives you thicker, chewier cookies.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking. They should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center when you take them out.
- Sift Powdered Sugar: Sifting powdered sugar before mixing it into your icing prevents lumps and ensures a smooth glaze.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add nuts or dried fruits to the dough for added texture and taste variation.
Best Side Dishes for Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
While these brown butter iced oatmeal cookies are fantastic on their own, pairing them with side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some delicious options:
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with these cookies for a classic dessert combination.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad brings brightness and contrast to the rich flavors of oatmeal cookies, balancing sweetness with tartness.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the cookies for an extra indulgent treat that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
- Cheese Plate: A selection of cheeses can provide a savory contrast to sweet cookies, making for an interesting pairing option at gatherings.
- Whipped Cream: Top each cookie with a dollop of whipped cream for added richness and texture, perfect for special occasions.
- Hot Apple Cider: Serve warm apple cider alongside your cookies during fall or winter gatherings; its spiced flavor complements oatmeal beautifully.
- Peanut Butter Dip: Create a peanut butter dip to serve alongside; its nutty flavor enhances the overall taste experience when paired with these oatmeal delights.
- Caramel Sauce: Offer caramel sauce as a dip or drizzle; it adds another layer of sweetness that cookie lovers will adore.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your brown butter iced oatmeal cookies, it’s crucial to avoid common pitfalls for the best results. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:
- Skipping the browning step: Not browning the butter will miss out on that rich flavor. Take your time to brown the butter until it’s golden and has a nutty aroma.
- Using quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats: Quick oats can make the cookies mushy. Always opt for old-fashioned oats for the perfect texture.
- Not measuring flour accurately: Too much flour can dry out your cookies. Use a spoon to scoop flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife.
- Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined for soft and chewy results.
- Ignoring room temperature ingredients: Cold eggs or butter can affect how well your dough comes together. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
- Freeze unglazed cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- For best results, wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a container.
Reheating Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5–7 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individually on low power for 10–15 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat for a couple of minutes, covered.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you as you bake.
Can I use different spices in the Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with spices like ginger or cloves for a unique flavor.
How do I ensure my Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies turn out soft?
Make sure not to overbake them. Remove them from the oven when they are slightly underbaked, as they will firm up while cooling.
What can I substitute if I don’t have molasses?
You can substitute molasses with honey or maple syrup, but it may slightly change the flavor.
Are these cookies suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! You can freeze them before or after glazing. Just make sure they are stored properly.
Final Thoughts
These brown butter iced oatmeal cookies are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize them by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits. Try this recipe and enjoy cozy flavors that will surely delight everyone!

Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of our Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe, where the rich, nutty essence of brown butter meets the wholesome charm of oatmeal. These cookies are a perfect blend of soft and chewy textures, enhanced with warm spices and topped with a sweet vanilla glaze. Ideal for any occasion—from holiday festivities to cozy family gatherings—these treats will impress your friends and family alike. With their beautiful appearance and irresistible taste, they quickly become a cherished favorite in any cookie repertoire.
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups unsalted butter
- 2 cups old-fashioned oats
- 2 cups + 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons molasses
- 2 cups powdered sugar (for glazing)
- Milk or heavy cream (for glazing)
Instructions
- Brown the butter in a saucepan over medium heat until golden brown and fragrant. Let cool slightly.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Combine browned butter with sugars in a mixing bowl until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla and molasses.
- Gradually incorporate dry ingredients into the wet mixture and fold in oats.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto parchment-lined baking sheets.
- Bake for about 10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
- While cooling, prepare the glaze by whisking powdered sugar with milk or cream until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cookies.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg