Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
These Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe are a delightful treat that everyone will love. With their perfectly soft and chewy texture, these cookies are infused with cozy spice flavors and topped with a sweet vanilla glaze. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or just for a cozy night in, these cookies are sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The rich taste of brown butter combined with warm spices creates an unforgettable cookie experience.
- Perfectly Chewy Texture: Old-fashioned oats provide a satisfying chewiness that complements the softness of the cookie.
- Versatile Treat: Ideal for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or just because—these cookies fit any occasion!
- Easy to Make: Simple instructions make this recipe accessible to bakers of all levels.
- Beautiful Presentation: The sweet vanilla icing adds an eye-catching finish that makes these cookies as pretty as they are tasty.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making your cookies, gather the necessary tools and equipment. Having everything ready will simplify the baking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or hand mixer: Ensures thorough mixing of ingredients, creating a smooth dough.
- Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for even baking without warping.
- Cooling rack: Allows cookies to cool evenly, preventing sogginess.
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!
For the Cookies
- 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)
For the Icing
- 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: Prepare the Brown Butter
Start by browning your butter:
1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter.
2. Stir occasionally until it turns golden brown and smells nutty. Be careful not to burn it.
3. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
While the butter cools:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt.
2. Whisk until well combined.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl:
1. Beat together the browned butter and sugars until creamy.
2. Add in eggs one at a time followed by vanilla and molasses. Mix until smooth.
Step 4: Mix Dry into Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture:
1. Slowly incorporate the flour mixture into the butter mixture using your mixer on low speed until just combined.
2. Stir in old-fashioned oats until evenly distributed.
Step 5: Bake the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your baking sheet:
1. Line it with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
2. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the sheet about 2 inches apart.
3. Bake for 10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Step 6: Cool and Ice
After baking:
1. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
2. Once cooled completely, prepare your icing by whisking together powdered sugar, milk or cream, and vanilla until smooth.
3. Drizzle icing over each cookie as desired.
Enjoy your delicious Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies!
How to Serve Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
These brown butter iced oatmeal cookies are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, these cookies will surely impress.
With a Glass of Milk
- A classic pairing, milk complements the sweetness of the cookies perfectly, enhancing their flavor.
As a Dessert Platter
- Arrange these cookies on a festive platter alongside other holiday treats for an eye-catching dessert spread.
With Coffee or Tea
- Enjoy a cookie with your favorite hot beverage. The warmth of coffee or tea balances the sweetness of the icing.
Gift-Wrapped for Friends
- Package these cookies in decorative boxes or bags as thoughtful gifts for friends and family during the holidays.
At Holiday Parties
- Serve these cookies at holiday gatherings to share joy and deliciousness with guests. They’re sure to be a hit!

How to Perfect Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
To ensure your brown butter iced oatmeal cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Use browned butter: Browning the butter adds a nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste of the cookies.
- Chill the dough: Letting the dough chill for at least 30 minutes helps prevent spreading and results in thicker cookies.
- Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on baking time; remove them when they look slightly underbaked for a softer texture.
- Sift powdered sugar: For a smoother icing, sift powdered sugar before mixing it with milk and vanilla.
- Adjust spice levels: Feel free to tweak cinnamon and nutmeg amounts based on your flavor preference for a personalized touch.
- Store properly: Keep cooled cookies in an airtight container to maintain their softness and freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your brown butter iced oatmeal cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some fantastic options that complement these sweet treats well.
-
Vanilla Ice Cream
A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds coolness and richness, making each bite even more indulgent. -
Fruit Salad
A fresh fruit salad provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet cookies, balancing flavors beautifully. -
Cheese Platter
Offer assorted cheeses like brie or sharp cheddar for a savory counterpoint to the sweet icing and oats. -
Hot Chocolate
A warm mug of hot chocolate pairs wonderfully, especially on cold days, creating a comforting treat combo. -
Yogurt Parfait
Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a healthy yet delicious side that complements the cookie’s sweetness. -
Spiced Chai Latte
The aromatic spices in chai enhance the cozy flavors of the cookies, making this drink a perfect match. -
Nut Mix
A bowl of spiced nuts provides crunch and saltiness that contrasts nicely with the soft cookie texture. -
Apple Cider
Warm apple cider brings seasonal flavors that harmonize delightfully with the oatmeal cookie’s spices.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking brown butter iced oatmeal cookies can be a delightful experience, but it’s important to avoid some common pitfalls.
- Overmixing the dough: This can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until ingredients are combined for a tender texture.
- Not chilling the dough: Skipping this step may result in cookies spreading too much. Chilling helps maintain their shape during baking.
- Using cold eggs: Cold eggs can affect the consistency of your batter. Always use room temperature eggs for better incorporation.
- Neglecting to measure flour properly: Too much flour can make cookies dry. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurements.
- Ignoring oven temperature: An incorrect oven temperature can lead to uneven baking. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store 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 cookies for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.
- Wrap them 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 cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place cookies in a pan over low heat, cover, and warm gently for a few minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the brown butter iced oatmeal cookies recipe.
What makes these cookies soft and chewy?
The combination of brown butter and oats creates a soft and chewy texture. The brown sugar also adds moisture, contributing to that delightful consistency.
Can I substitute ingredients in the Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe?
Yes! You can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour or substitute maple syrup for molasses for a different flavor profile.
How do I store leftover iced oatmeal cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Why is my icing running off the cookies?
If your icing is too thin, add more powdered sugar until it reaches a thicker consistency. It should coat the back of a spoon without dripping off too quickly.
Final Thoughts
These brown butter iced oatmeal cookies are not only soft and chewy but also wonderfully flavored with spices that evoke warmth and comfort. They are perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy afternoons at home. Feel free to customize with nuts or dried fruits for added flair!

Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful goodness of Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies. These cookies boast a soft and chewy texture, enriched with the nutty flavor of brown butter and warm spices. Topped with a sweet vanilla glaze, they are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s holiday gatherings or cozy nights at home. With easy-to-follow instructions and accessible ingredients, anyone can whip up this comforting treat. Get ready to impress your friends and family with these scrumptious cookies that are as beautiful as they are delicious.
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
Instructions
- Prepare brown butter by melting unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat until golden brown and nutty. Let it cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix the browned butter with sugars until creamy. Add eggs, vanilla, and molasses; blend until smooth.
- Gradually incorporate dry mixture into wet ingredients using a mixer on low speed. Stir in oats until evenly mixed.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the sheet.
- Bake for 10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Cool on a rack before drizzling with icing made from powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 135
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg