Get ready to indulge in a world of rich, nutty flavors with these 18 decadent brown butter recipes for every occasion! Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat to satisfy your cravings or a savory dish to impress your guests, brown butter is the perfect addition to elevate any meal. From classic cookies and cakes to savory pasta dishes and roasted vegetables, we’ve rounded up our favorite brown butter recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of brown butter cooking and share some amazing recipe ideas that will make your taste buds do the happy dance. From comforting desserts like Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies and Brown Butter Banana Bread, to savory main courses like Brown Butter Lobster Risotto and Brown Butter Garlic Shrimp, there’s something for everyone.
Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
Take a classic chocolate chip cookie recipe and elevate it with the deep, caramel flavor of brown butter. The result is a chewy, indulgent treat that’s sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Continue cooking until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in sugar until dissolved. Let cool slightly.
4. Whisk together eggs and vanilla extract. Add to cooled butter mixture and whisk until combined.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
6. Stir in chocolate chips. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Brown Butter Sage Pasta
This classic Italian-inspired recipe combines the nutty flavor of browned butter with the earthy taste of sage, creating a rich and satisfying pasta dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice
– 4 tbsp (60ml) unsalted butter
– 2 tbsp (30g) chopped fresh sage leaves
– 1/4 cup (60g) grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Continue cooking until the butter turns golden brown and smells nutty (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Add the chopped sage leaves to the skillet and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Toss cooked pasta with the brown butter-sage mixture, adding some reserved pasta water if needed to achieve a creamy consistency.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and season with salt to taste.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes
Rich and nutty, brown butter adds a depth of flavor to classic mashed potatoes. This simple recipe is perfect for a special occasion or just a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or whole milk
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
2. While the potatoes cook, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the butter turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Drain the cooked potatoes and add them to a bowl with the brown butter, heavy cream or whole milk, and salt. Mash until smooth and creamy.
Cooking Time: About 25-30 minutes
Brown Butter Banana Bread
Transform ripe bananas into a decadent banana bread by browning the butter and infusing it with sweet, caramel-like flavors. This moist and aromatic loaf is perfect for breakfast, snack time, or as a comforting treat any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Brown the butter in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma (about 5-7 minutes).
3. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, and mashed bananas.
4. Add the browned butter, egg, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Mix until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Brown Butter Roasted Vegetables
Brown Butter Roasted Vegetables: A Nutty Twist on Classic Roasting
This recipe adds a rich and nutty flavor to roasted vegetables by browning butter before tossing it with the veggies. The result is a sweet and savory side dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 large carrot, peeled and chopped
– 1 large Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Continue cooking the butter until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma, stirring frequently (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and stir in salt, pepper, and paprika (if using).
5. Toss the chopped vegetables with the browned butter until they are evenly coated.
6. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Brown Butter Pecan Pie
Experience the rich flavors of caramelized butter and toasted pecans in this decadent pie.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup light brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup pecan halves
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Continue cooking until browned and fragrant, stirring occasionally (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in brown sugar and granulated sugar until dissolved.
4. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
5. Stir in pecan halves until well coated.
6. Roll out pie crust and fill with the butter-pecan mixture.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until filling is set and crust golden.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Brown Butter Lobster Risotto
Elevate your dinner party with this decadent risotto dish featuring succulent lobster and the nutty flavor of brown butter. This creamy, indulgent recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup browned butter (see note)
– 1 pound lobster meat, diced
– 1/2 cup white wine
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the broth in a separate pot and keep warm.
2. In a large skillet, melt the regular butter over medium heat. Add Arborio rice; cook, stirring constantly, 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
3. Add white wine; cook, stirring occasionally, until absorbed.
4. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. Stir in browned butter, lobster meat, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Brown Butter Apple Tart
A sweet and tangy tart that combines the flavors of caramelized brown butter and crisp apples, perfect for a cozy dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 2-3 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Cook, stirring frequently, until butter turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma (about 5 minutes).
4. Arrange apple slices on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Drizzle brown butter over apples, then sprinkle with sugar and salt.
6. Fold other half of pastry over filling to form a triangle or square shape.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Brown Butter Scallops
Elevate your seafood game with this decadent recipe that combines the tender sweetness of scallops with the deep, caramel flavors of browned butter. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse scallops under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add scallops to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
5. Remove skillet from heat and stir in remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until it turns a deep golden brown and has a nutty aroma.
6. Serve scallops with browned butter spooned over top. If desired, add a splash of white wine to the pan and simmer for an additional minute.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Brown Butter Pumpkin Spice Cake
This moist and aromatic cake combines the comforting flavors of brown butter, pumpkin puree, and warm spices to create a perfect autumn treat. With a hint of nutmeg and cinnamon, this cake is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine browned butter, pumpkin puree, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Brown Butter Garlic Shrimp
A rich and aromatic dish that combines the flavors of brown butter, garlic, and succulent shrimp.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon browned butter (see note)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium-high heat.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and just cooked through.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
6. Add the browned butter to the skillet and stir until melted.
7. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss with the brown butter mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Brown Butter Blondies
These chewy blondies are elevated by the deep, caramel-like flavor of brown butter, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. With a crunchy pecan topping and a hint of sea salt, these sweet and savory bars will quickly become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Brown the butter in a skillet over medium heat until it has a nutty aroma and turns golden brown.
3. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together sugars, eggs, and vanilla extract. Add the cooled brown butter and whisk until combined.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
6. Fold in chopped pecans.
7. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Brown Butter Glazed Carrots
Elevate your carrot game with this simple yet impressive side dish. The brown butter adds a nutty, caramel-like flavor that pairs perfectly with the natural sweetness of the carrots.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound baby carrots
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Continue cooking until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove from heat and stir in honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Add the baby carrots to the skillet and toss to coat with the brown butter glaze.
5. Spread the carrots out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Brown Butter Cornbread
A sweet and savory twist on classic cornbread, this recipe features the deep flavor of brown butter and a hint of sweetness from corn syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, milk, egg, and brown butter (see note).
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Note: To make brown butter, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until butter turns light brown and develops a nutty aroma. Let cool before using in recipe.
Brown Butter Toffee Cookies
These cookies are a delightful twist on traditional butter cookies, with the added depth of browned butter and crunchy toffee bits. Perfect for a sweet treat or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chopped toffee bits
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Continue cooking until butter turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Whisk in sugars, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients until a dough forms.
5. Fold in toffee bits. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches of space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Brown Butter Mushroom Risotto
This rich and creamy risotto combines the nutty flavor of brown butter with the earthiness of mushrooms, perfect for a cozy dinner party or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup fresh cremini mushrooms, sliced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the chicken broth in a separate pot and keep warm.
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Remove mushrooms from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Let it brown, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes or until it has a nutty aroma.
5. Add Arborio rice to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
6. Add warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
7. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, remove from heat. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Combine cooked mushrooms with risotto and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Brown Butter Cinnamon Rolls
These soft, buttery cinnamon rolls are elevated by the rich flavor of browned butter and the warmth of cinnamon. Perfect for breakfast or brunch, these sweet treats are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup browned butter (see note)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add melted butter, sugar, flour, salt, and cinnamon to the bowl. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (6 mm).
5. Spread browned butter evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch (2.5 cm) border around edges.
6. Roll up the dough tightly and cut into 12 equal pieces.
7. Place rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) between each roll.
8. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Note: To make browned butter, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Continue cooking the butter, stirring frequently, until it turns a deep amber color and has a nutty aroma.
Brown Butter Honey Glazed Salmon
Elevate your seafood game with this sweet and savory glaze, featuring caramelized brown butter, sticky honey, and tender salmon fillets.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
3. Continue cooking until butter turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma (about 5 minutes).
4. Add honey, garlic, and mustard; stir until well combined.
5. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Brush the brown butter mixture evenly over each fillet, making sure they’re fully coated.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich flavors of brown butter with these 18 decadent recipes perfect for every occasion! From sweet treats like Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies and Brown Butter Pecan Pie, to savory dishes like Brown Butter Sage Pasta and Brown Butter Lobster Risotto, there’s something for everyone. Plus, explore the versatility of brown butter in desserts like Banana Bread and Pumpkin Spice Cake, as well as comforting side dishes like Mashed Potatoes and Roasted Vegetables. Treat yourself and your loved ones to a culinary experience with these indulgent brown butter recipes!
