Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
These Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe are a delightful treat that perfectly balances soft, chewy textures with cozy spice flavors. A sweet vanilla glaze enhances these cookies, making them an ideal addition to your holiday celebrations or any gathering. Their beautiful appearance and comforting taste have made them a favorite year after year!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The brown butter adds a nutty richness that elevates the oatmeal cookie experience.
- Soft and Chewy Texture: These cookies maintain a perfect chewiness, ensuring every bite is satisfying.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for holidays, parties, or just a cozy night in; they fit any occasion beautifully.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps, this recipe is approachable for bakers of all skill levels.
- Customizable Options: Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor variations.
Tools and Preparation
Before you begin baking these delicious cookies, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients effectively without mess.
- Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking your cookies to perfection.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking, ensuring easy cookie removal after baking.
Ingredients
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.
Continue cooking until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma.
Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before using.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
The all-purpose flour
Baking soda
Ground cinnamon
Ground nutmeg
Salt
Ensure there are no lumps.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, combine:
The browned butter
Light brown sugar
Granulated sugar
Eggs
Vanilla
Molasses
Mix until smooth.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients:
1. Stir gently until fully combined.
2. Fold in the old fashioned oats.
Step 5: Bake the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper.
Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for about 10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
Step 6: Prepare Icing
While cookies cool, mix powdered sugar with milk and vanilla until smooth. Adjust consistency as needed.
Step 7: Ice the Cookies
Once cookies have cooled completely:
1. Drizzle or spread icing over each cookie.
2. Allow icing to set before serving.
Enjoy your deliciously soft and chewy Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies!
How to Serve Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
These brown butter iced oatmeal cookies are a delightful treat that is sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or enjoying them as a cozy snack, here are some great serving suggestions.
Pair with a Hot Beverage
- Coffee: The rich flavors of coffee complement the sweet glaze and spices perfectly.
- Tea: Choose a warm chai or vanilla tea to enhance the cozy vibes of these cookies.
- Hot Chocolate: For a sweet indulgence, serve these cookies alongside creamy hot chocolate.
Create a Dessert Platter
- Mix and Match: Arrange your iced oatmeal cookies with other holiday treats like brownies, fudge, and bars for an impressive dessert spread.
- Garnish with Fresh Fruit: Add slices of seasonal fruits like oranges or apples for a refreshing contrast.
Enjoy with Ice Cream
- Cookie Sandwiches: Use two cookies to sandwich your favorite ice cream for a delightful dessert.
- A La Mode: Serve warm cookies topped with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream.

How to Perfect Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
Perfecting your brown butter iced oatmeal cookies can elevate their flavor and texture. Here are some tips to help you achieve cookie perfection.
- Flavor with Brown Butter: Make sure to brown the butter until it’s golden and fragrant; this adds depth to your cookies’ flavor.
- Chill the Dough: Allow the dough to chill for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies maintain their shape.
- Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices will enhance the warmth and coziness of these cookies, making them even more delicious.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies in the oven. They should be lightly golden at the edges but still soft in the center when done.
- Sift Powdered Sugar for Icing: Sifting ensures a smooth glaze that coats your cookies beautifully without lumps.
Best Side Dishes for Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
These brown butter iced oatmeal cookies can be paired with various side dishes that complement their flavors. Here’s a list of delightful options.
- Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad adds brightness and balances out the sweetness of the cookies.
- Cheese Platter: Soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese provide a savory contrast that pairs well with sweet baked goods.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a wholesome side that complements cookie indulgence.
- Nuts Mix: A simple mix of roasted nuts can add crunchiness and is easy to prepare alongside your baking session.
- Mini Muffins: Offer an assortment of mini muffins (like blueberry or banana) for variety in texture and flavor.
- Granola Bars: Homemade granola bars can be an ideal snack option, providing energy alongside your sweet treats.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking can sometimes lead to mishaps. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for when making the Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe.
- Ignoring room temperature ingredients: Using cold eggs or butter can affect the texture. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for optimal blending.
- Not browning the butter properly: Under-browning may leave you with a raw taste. Cook until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma for full flavor.
- Skipping the sifting step: Not sifting powdered sugar can result in lumps in your icing. Always sift for a smooth finish on your cookies.
- Overmixing the dough: This can make your cookies tough. Mix just until combined to keep them soft and chewy.
- Not chilling the dough: Skipping this step can lead to flat cookies. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes to maintain shape while baking.
- Using incorrect measurements: Weighing flour can greatly differ from using cups, leading to inconsistencies. Use a kitchen scale for accuracy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
- Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
- Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months.
- Layer with wax paper to keep them separate.
Reheating Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Heat cookies for 5-7 minutes on a baking sheet.
- Microwave: Microwave for 10-15 seconds for a warm treat, but avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally, until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe.
Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
Yes, but old-fashioned oats provide better texture and chewiness.
What can I substitute for molasses?
You can use honey or maple syrup as alternatives, though they will change the flavor slightly.
How do I know when my cookies are done baking?
Cookies should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center. They’ll firm up as they cool.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.
How long do these cookies last after icing?
When stored properly, iced cookies will last about five days at room temperature.
Final Thoughts
These Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies are not only delightful but also versatile. Perfectly soft and chewy, they bring warmth and sweetness to any occasion. Feel free to customize them with your favorite spices or nuts!

Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful warmth of Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies, a perfect blend of soft and chewy textures with cozy spices. The rich, nutty flavor from browned butter elevates these cookies, while a sweet vanilla glaze adds an irresistible finish. Ideal for holiday gatherings or cozy evenings at home, these cookies are sure to become a beloved classic in your baking repertoire. Easy to make and customizable with add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips, this recipe caters to bakers of all skill levels. Experience the comfort and joy these scrumptious treats bring to any occasion!
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 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 cup light brown sugar (packed)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons molasses
- 2 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
- 3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
Instructions
- Brown the butter in a saucepan over medium heat until golden and fragrant. Let cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until combined.
- In another bowl, mix browned butter with brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla, and molasses until smooth.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; fold in oats until just combined.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough onto the baking sheet and bake for about 10 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
- For icing, mix powdered sugar with milk and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cookies.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg