Chewy Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

Instructions

1. Step 1

   Place the butter in a light-colored saucepan over medium heat.

2. Step 2

   Melt the butter completely, then continue cooking while stirring frequently. The butter will foam and the milk solids will begin settling toward the bottom of the pan.

3. Step 3

   Continue cooking until the milk solids become deep golden brown and the butter smells toasted and nutty. This generally takes 5 to 7 minutes after the butter has completely melted.

4. Step 4

   Immediately remove the saucepan from the heat so the browned milk solids do not burn.

5. Step 5

   Carefully pour the brown butter, including all of the browned milk solids, into a large heat-safe mixing bowl.

6. Step 6

   Stir in the tablespoon of cold water. This replaces some of the moisture that evaporated while the butter browned.

7. Step 7

   Let the butter cool for about 15 to 20 minutes. It can remain slightly warm but should no longer be hot.

8. Step 8

   Add the dark brown sugar and granulated sugar to the butter. Whisk until thoroughly combined.

9. Step 9

   Add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Whisk vigorously for about 30 seconds until the mixture looks smooth and glossy.

10. Step 10

    In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and kosher salt.

11. Step 11

    Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture. Fold gently just until no obvious streaks of dry flour remain.

12. Step 12

    Fold in the chocolate chips or chopped chocolate.

13. Step 13

    Cover the dough and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

14. Step 14

    Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

15. Step 15

    Scoop the chilled dough into approximately 2-tablespoon portions and place them at least 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.

16. Step 16

    Bake one sheet at a time for 10 to 12 minutes, until the edges are golden but the centers still appear slightly soft.

17. Step 17

    Remove the cookies from the oven and immediately sprinkle them with a very small amount of flaky salt if desired.

18. Step 18

    Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. They will continue setting as they cool.

19. Step 19

    Transfer the cookies to a wire rack and cool completely, or serve while still slightly warm.