These Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe are a delightful treat that brings warmth and comfort to every occasion. With their soft and chewy texture, these cookies are infused with cozy spices and topped with a sweet vanilla glaze. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy afternoon snack, they stand out not just in taste but also in appearance, making them a favorite among cookie lovers.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Cookie Dough
- For the Icing
- 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 Ingredients
- Step 5: Bake the Cookies
- Step 6: Prepare the Icing
- Step 7: Ice Your Cookies
- How to Serve Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
- With a Glass of Milk
- As Dessert on a Cookie Platter
- With Coffee or Tea
- Gift Wrapped for Friends
- At Holiday Gatherings
- 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 know when my brown butter is ready?
- Can I substitute ingredients in this Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe?
- What is the best way to store these iced oatmeal cookies?
- How long do these cookies last?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of brown butter and warm spices creates a rich, unique flavor profile that delights the senses.
- Perfect Texture: These cookies are soft, chewy, and perfectly moist, ensuring each bite is satisfying.
- Versatile Treat: Great for holiday parties, family gatherings, or even as an everyday snack. They fit any occasion!
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward instructions make this recipe approachable for bakers of all levels.
- Visually Stunning: The icing adds a beautiful touch to these cookies, making them as attractive as they are delicious.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies, gather the essential tools that will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or hand mixer: Makes it easy to cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without making a mess. A larger bowl allows room for mixing dry ingredients efficiently.
- Baking sheets: Provides a sturdy surface for baking. Using multiple sheets can speed up the process.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless.
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 Cookie Dough
- 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: Brown the Butter
Begin by browning the butter:
1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter.
2. Once melted, continue cooking while stirring until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before using.
Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients
While the butter cools:
1. In a mixing bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt.
2. Set aside for later use.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl:
1. Combine the brown sugar and granulated sugar with the browned butter.
2. Beat until well blended.
3. Add eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract and molasses.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Now it’s time to put everything together:
1. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
2. Stir in old fashioned oats until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 5: Bake the Cookies
To bake your cookies:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
3. Drop tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared sheets about two inches apart.
4. Bake for 10 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges.
5. Let cool on sheets for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks.
Step 6: Prepare the Icing
While cookies cool:
1. Whisk together powdered sugar, milk or heavy cream, and vanilla to create a smooth icing consistency.
Step 7: Ice Your Cookies
Once cooled:
1. Drizzle or spread icing over each cookie.
2. Allow icing to set before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies!
How to Serve Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
Serving brown butter iced oatmeal cookies can elevate any gathering or holiday celebration. Their delightful texture and sweet glaze make them a perfect treat for sharing.
With a Glass of Milk
- A classic pairing that enhances the creamy sweetness of the cookies. Whole milk works great, but feel free to use your favorite type.
As Dessert on a Cookie Platter
- Arrange these cookies with other favorites for an inviting dessert table. Their beautiful icing makes them stand out in any selection.
With Coffee or Tea
- Enjoy these cookies alongside your morning coffee or afternoon tea. The spices in the cookies complement warm beverages perfectly.
Gift Wrapped for Friends
- Package these cookies in decorative boxes or bags for a thoughtful homemade gift. They are sure to be appreciated by anyone who receives them.
At Holiday Gatherings
- Serve them at family gatherings or holiday parties as a festive treat. Their cozy flavors will resonate well during the colder months.

How to Perfect Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
To ensure your brown butter iced oatmeal cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.
-
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow eggs and butter to reach room temperature for better mixing, resulting in a smoother dough.
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Brown the Butter Carefully: Watch the butter closely while browning it to avoid burning. This step is crucial for achieving that nutty flavor.
-
Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix just until combined to keep the cookies soft and chewy. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
-
Cool Before Icing: Allow cookies to cool completely before applying the icing. This prevents the glaze from melting and losing its shape.
Best Side Dishes for Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
Pairing your brown butter iced oatmeal cookies with side dishes can create a delightful experience. Here are some suggestions!
-
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream complements the spices and sweetness of the cookies beautifully.
-
Fruit Salad: Fresh fruit adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the cookies, making it an ideal side dish.
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Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, especially creamy varieties, pairs well with sweet treats like these cookies.
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Hot Chocolate: Serve these cookies with a mug of hot chocolate for a cozy treat during chilly evenings.
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Nut Mix: A mix of roasted nuts provides a crunchy contrast and balances out the sweet cookie flavors nicely.
-
Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a healthy side that still feels indulgent when enjoyed alongside cookies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making brown butter iced oatmeal cookies is a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
- Skipping the browning step: Not browning the butter can result in less flavor. Take the time to brown it properly for that nutty richness.
- Using old oats: Old-fashioned oats give the best texture. Using quick oats will change the cookie consistency and might lead to chewy rather than soft cookies.
- Not measuring flour correctly: Spoon and level your flour; packing it down can lead to dry cookies. Use a kitchen scale for precision if possible.
- Ignoring room temperature ingredients: Cold eggs or butter can affect the mixing process. Let your eggs and butter sit out for about 30 minutes before baking.
- Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can make cookies tough. Blend just until combined for the best texture.

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 unglazed cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- To freeze glazed cookies, ensure they are fully set before wrapping individually.
Reheating Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for 10-15 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally for even warming.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding the brown butter iced oatmeal cookies recipe:
How do I know when my brown butter is ready?
The butter should be golden brown with a nutty aroma. Be careful not to burn it!
Can I substitute ingredients in this Brown Butter Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe?
Yes! You can use different sugars or add nuts and chocolate chips for variety.
What is the best way to store these iced oatmeal cookies?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for optimal freshness.
How long do these cookies last?
They can last up to a week at room temperature or up to three months if frozen.
Final Thoughts
These brown butter iced oatmeal cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. Their cozy flavors make them perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to casual snacking. Feel free to customize them with your favorite add-ins like nuts or dried fruits. Enjoy making this delightful treat!
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📖 Recipe Card
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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, a comforting treat perfect for any occasion. These cookies feature a soft and chewy texture, enhanced by the nutty richness of brown butter and warm spices. Topped with a sweet vanilla glaze, they not only taste heavenly but also look stunning on any dessert table. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or enjoying a quiet afternoon snack, these cookies will surely impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups unsalted butter
- 2 cups old-fashioned oats
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla
- 2 tablespoons molasses
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
Instructions
- Brown the butter in a saucepan over medium heat until golden and nutty. Let it cool.
- In a bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine cooled brown butter with sugars. Beat in eggs, vanilla, and molasses.
- Gradually mix dry ingredients into the wet mixture and fold in oats.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Drop tablespoonfuls of dough onto parchment-lined baking sheets.
- Bake for about 10 minutes until lightly golden around the edges. Cool before icing with a mixture of 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: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg





