These Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe are an absolute delight! They combine the nutty flavor of brown butter with the comforting taste of oats, making them ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering or simply indulging yourself, these cookies are sure to impress. Their soft and chewy texture, paired with a sweet vanilla glaze, creates a treat that is both visually appealing and deliciously satisfying.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- How to Make Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
- Step 1: Brown the Butter
- Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients
- Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
- Step 4: Combine Mixtures
- Step 5: Bake Cookies
- Step 6: Ice Your Cookies
- How to Serve Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
- With a Warm Beverage
- At a Cookie Exchange
- As a Dessert Platter
- For Gift Giving
- How to Perfect Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
- Best Side Dishes for Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
- Reheating Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I achieve the perfect glaze for my Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe?
- Can I customize my Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe?
- What is the best way to store leftover Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies?
- How long do Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies last?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of brown butter and spices gives these cookies a unique, rich taste that you won’t find in regular oatmeal cookies.
- Perfect Texture: Enjoy the delightful chewiness from oats and the softness from the perfect bake – each bite melts in your mouth!
- Versatile Treat: Great for holidays, parties, or just as a sweet snack at home; they fit every occasion beautifully.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up these cookies without any fuss.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing bowls
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or hand mixer: These make creaming butter and sugar easier, ensuring a light and fluffy cookie base.
- Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the perfect cookie consistency.
- Mixing bowls: Using separate bowls helps keep your ingredients organized and prevents cross-contamination.
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!
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 browning your unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir it frequently until it turns golden brown and smells nutty. This step adds depth to your cookies.
Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Whisk them together until well blended.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, beat together the browned butter with light brown sugar and granulated sugar until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract and molasses. Mix just until combined.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir in old-fashioned oats until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 5: Bake Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Drop spoonfuls of cookie dough onto prepared baking sheets. Bake for about 10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Step 6: Ice Your Cookies
While the cookies cool down, prepare your icing by mixing powdered sugar with milk or heavy cream and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cookies before serving.
Enjoy these delightful Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies warm with a glass of milk!
How to Serve Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
These brown butter iced oatmeal cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether it’s for a cozy family gathering or a festive holiday party, these cookies will surely impress everyone.
With a Warm Beverage
- Coffee – The rich flavor of coffee complements the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.
- Hot Chocolate – A warm cup of hot chocolate enhances the cozy feeling these cookies provide.
- Tea – Pairing with herbal or spiced tea brings out the warm spices in the cookies.
At a Cookie Exchange
- Presentation – Arrange these cookies on a decorative platter for an eye-catching display.
- Variety – Include them among other holiday treats to create an appealing assortment.
As a Dessert Platter
- Mixed Sweets – Serve alongside brownies, bars, and other cookies for a fun dessert selection.
- Garnishes – Add fresh fruit or nuts to elevate the dessert experience.
For Gift Giving
- Jar Presentation – Layer cookies in a mason jar and tie with a ribbon for a thoughtful gift.
- Personal Touch – Include a handwritten recipe card for an extra special gesture.

How to Perfect Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
To make sure your brown butter iced oatmeal cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Always use fresh baking soda and spices for the best flavor and texture.
- Brown Your Butter Properly – Cook it until it turns golden brown and smells nutty; this step adds depth to your cookies.
- Chill the Dough – Refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking to enhance texture and flavor.
- Don’t Overbake – Remove from the oven when edges are lightly golden; they will continue to cook as they cool.
- Sift Powdered Sugar – Ensure your icing is smooth by sifting the powdered sugar before mixing it with milk or cream.
- Adjust Glaze Thickness – If your icing is too thick, add more milk gradually until you reach desired consistency.
Best Side Dishes for Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
These brown butter iced oatmeal cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes that can complement their flavors. Here’s what you might consider serving alongside them.
- Vanilla Ice Cream – A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creaminess and balances the cookie’s sweetness.
- Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a light contrast to rich cookies.
- Cheese Platter – Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese for an elegant touch that contrasts well with sweet flavors.
- Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a wholesome side that enhances the cookie experience.
- Nut Mixes – A bowl of salted mixed nuts gives a savory crunch that pairs nicely with sweet treats.
- Chocolate Fondue – Serve warm chocolate fondue for dipping, creating an interactive dessert experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making these brown butter iced oatmeal cookies, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here’s how to ensure your cookies come out perfectly every time.
- Using cold butter: Cold butter can affect the texture of your cookies. Make sure to use room temperature butter for a soft and chewy cookie.
- Skipping the browning step: Failing to brown the butter will miss out on that rich, nutty flavor. Take the time to brown it until it’s golden and fragrant for best results.
- Not measuring flour correctly: Overpacking flour leads to dry cookies. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurement.
- Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Using eggs straight from the fridge can impact mixing. Allow eggs to reach room temperature for better incorporation.
- Underbaking or overbaking: Keep an eye on baking times; underbaked cookies will be doughy, while overbaked ones will be hard. Aim for a light golden color at the edges.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to one week in the refrigerator.
Freezing Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
- Place cookies in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
- They can be frozen for up to three months.
Reheating Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place cookies on a baking sheet and warm for about 5-7 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat; cover and warm for about 2-3 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I achieve the perfect glaze for my Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe?
To get the ideal glaze, mix powdered sugar with milk and vanilla until smooth. Adjust consistency with more sugar or milk as needed.
Can I customize my Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits to enhance flavor and texture.
What is the best way to store leftover Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.
How long do Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies last?
These cookies can last up to one week in an airtight container at room temperature or up to three months if frozen properly.
Final Thoughts
These brown butter iced oatmeal cookies are not only delightful but also versatile. Perfectly soft and chewy, they make a fantastic treat year-round. Customize them with your favorite mix-ins or enjoy them as is. Try this recipe today and indulge in their cozy charm!
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Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies are a delightful twist on classic oatmeal cookies, combining the rich, nutty flavor of brown butter with hearty oats and a sweet vanilla glaze. These soft and chewy treats are perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply enjoying a cozy evening at home. Each bite melts in your mouth, offering a warm spice profile that is both comforting and satisfying. With straightforward ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, these cookies allow bakers of all skill levels to create an irresistible dessert that will impress friends and family alike.
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 cup light brown sugar
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons molasses
- 2 cups powdered sugar (for icing)
- Milk or heavy cream (for icing)
Instructions
- Brown the butter in a saucepan over medium heat until golden and nutty.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Mix browned butter with sugars until creamy; add eggs, vanilla, and molasses.
- Gradually combine dry ingredients with wet; fold in oats.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Drop dough onto baking sheets and bake for about 10 minutes until edges are golden.
- Prepare icing by mixing powdered sugar with milk and vanilla; drizzle over cooled cookies.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg