Irresistible Crème Brûlée Cookies combine the elegance of the classic French dessert with the comfort and portability of a cookie. These cookies feature soft, vanilla-scented centers topped with a thin layer of caramelized sugar that cracks beautifully under a spoon — just like traditional crème brûlée.

They are luxurious yet approachable, impressive yet simple enough to bake at home. Perfect for holidays, special occasions, or anytime you want to elevate your cookie game, these cookies deliver contrast, texture, and unforgettable flavor in every bite.

What Makes These Cookies Special

Crème brûlée is all about contrast:

Creamy interior
Crisp caramel shell
Deep vanilla flavor

This recipe captures all three by using a tender cookie base enriched with egg yolks and vanilla, then finishing with a brûléed sugar topping that hardens into a glossy, crackable crust.

The Science Behind the Brûlée Top

Granulated sugar melts at high heat and recrystallizes into a brittle glass-like surface when cooled. Using a kitchen torch allows controlled caramelization without overbaking the cookie itself.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

All-purpose flour
Cornstarch
Baking powder
Salt
Unsalted butter, softened
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Egg yolks
Vanilla extract
Heavy cream

For the Brûlée Topping

Granulated sugar

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Whisk flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt.
Cream butter and sugars until fluffy.
Add egg yolks and vanilla; mix well.
Mix in cream.
Gradually add dry ingredients.
Scoop dough onto baking sheets.
Bake until edges set.
Cool completely.
Sprinkle sugar on tops.
Torch sugar until caramelized.
Cool until sugar hardens.

Texture & Flavor Tips

Use only egg yolks for richness
Do not overbake
Torch sugar just before serving
Use fine granulated sugar for even melting

Flavor Variations

Espresso Brûlée: Add espresso powder
Citrus Brûlée: Add orange zest
Vanilla Bean: Use vanilla bean paste

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Bake cookies ahead, brûlée sugar just before serving for maximum crunch.

Serving Ideas

Dessert platters
Afternoon tea treats
Holiday cookie boxes
Gourmet gifts