Sugar Cookies with Caramelized Sugar Crust

Sugar cookies with a caramelized sugar crust are an indulgent twist on the classic treat. These cookies are soft and buttery inside, with a golden, crackly caramelized sugar layer on top that adds a delightful crunch and rich, toasty flavor. Perfect for the holiday season or any special occasion, these cookies are both simple to make and irresistibly delicious.

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1. Why Make Sugar Cookies with Caramelized Sugar Crust?

These cookies stand out for their unique combination of flavors and textures:

• Buttery Base: The classic sugar cookie offers a soft and tender foundation.
• Crunchy Caramelization: The caramelized sugar crust adds a toasty, sweet crunch.
• Elegant Appeal: Perfect for elevating a cookie platter or gifting.
• Versatile: Great for holidays, tea parties, or as a dessert centerpiece.

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2. Ingredients Needed

For the Cookies:

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour.
• ½ tsp baking powder.
• ¼ tsp baking soda.
• ¼ tsp salt.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened.
• 1 cup granulated sugar.
• 1 large egg.
• 2 tsp vanilla extract.

For the Caramelized Sugar Crust:

• ½ cup granulated sugar.
• 2 tbsp brown sugar.
• 1 tbsp water (to help caramelization).

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3. Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls.
• Electric mixer or whisk.
• Rolling pin and cookie cutters (optional).
• Baking sheets and parchment paper.
• Small saucepan for caramelizing sugar.
• Pastry brush for spreading the caramel.

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4. Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Prepare the Cookie Dough

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.

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2. Chill the Dough

• Divide the dough into two disks, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling ensures the cookies hold their shape and prevents spreading.

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3. Roll and Shape the Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the dough to about ¼-inch thickness on a lightly floured surface.
3. Use round or festive cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheets.

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4. Prepare the Caramelized Sugar Crust

1. In a small saucepan, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, and water.
2. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and turns a light golden brown. Do not overcook to avoid bitterness.
3. Remove from heat and let the caramel cool slightly, just enough to thicken but still spreadable.

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5. Apply the Caramel and Bake

1. Use a pastry brush to lightly spread the caramel over the top of each cookie.
2. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden.
3. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

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5. Creative Variations

Enhance your caramelized sugar crust cookies with these ideas:

1. Spiced Caramel:

• Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the caramel for a warm, spiced flavor.

2. Sea Salt Finish:

• Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the caramelized sugar for a sweet-and-salty twist.

3. Chocolate Drizzle:

• Once cooled, drizzle melted dark or milk chocolate over the cookies for added richness.

4. Nutty Topping:

• Press chopped toasted almonds or pecans into the caramel before it hardens.

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6. Tips for Perfect Caramelized Cookies

• Monitor Caramel Closely: Sugar can burn quickly, so keep an eye on it while caramelizing.
• Chill Thoroughly: Chilling the dough prevents spreading and ensures a neat cookie shape.
• Don’t Overbake: Remove cookies when the edges are just set to keep them soft inside.
• Spread Caramel Quickly: Work fast when brushing the caramel, as it hardens as it cools.

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7. Serving and Gifting Suggestions

These cookies are perfect for sharing or presenting as a thoughtful gift:

• Holiday Platters: Combine with other festive cookies like thumbprints and snickerdoodles.
• Gift Boxes: Package in decorative tins or cellophane bags tied with ribbon.
• Beverage Pairing: Serve with coffee, hot cocoa, or spiced cider for a cozy treat.
• Elegant Desserts: Arrange on a tiered tray for a stunning dessert table centerpiece.

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FAQs

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! Refrigerate the dough for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before rolling.

2. Can I skip the caramel topping?

Absolutely! You can bake the cookies plain or add another topping like a glaze or powdered sugar.

3. How do I store these cookies?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

4. Can I freeze baked cookies?

Yes! Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to an airtight container. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

5. How do I prevent caramel from hardening too quickly?

Keep the saucepan over low heat while applying the caramel to maintain a workable consistency.

6. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for equally delicious results.

7. Can I add flavors to the cookie dough?

Definitely! Almond extract or citrus zest pairs wonderfully with the caramelized crust.

8. How do I avoid burning the caramel?

Use medium heat and remove the caramel from the heat as soon as it turns golden brown.

9. Can kids help with this recipe?

Yes! Kids can cut out cookie shapes, but handle the caramel yourself, as it’s very hot.

10. What if I don’t have a pastry brush?

Use a spoon to drizzle the caramel over the cookies and spread it gently with the back of the spoon.

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Enjoy baking and sharing these elegant sugar cookies with a caramelized sugar crust this holiday season! 🎄🍪