Chewy Sugar Cookie Recipe with Brown Sugar

There is something magical about a perfectly chewy sugar cookie—soft centers, lightly crisp edges, and that warm sweetness that feels like a hug in baked form. When winter arrives and holiday baking takes over kitchens everywhere, these chewy brown sugar cookies become the star of every dessert tray. Brown sugar brings a deeper flavor, a caramel-like richness, and a soft texture that makes these cookies irresistible from the very first bite.

If you’ve been searching for extra chewy sugar cookies or a Christmas cookie that stays soft for days, this recipe is designed for you. With simple pantry ingredients, easy-to-follow tips, and plenty of customization options, these cookies are perfect for cookie boxes, gift exchanges, holiday parties, and peaceful nights spent baking at home.

Below, you’ll find everything you need: an in-depth recipe, pro tips, ingredient notes, variations, storage instructions, troubleshooting help, and a full FAQ section for maximum SEO value.

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Why Brown Sugar Makes Sugar Cookies Extra Chewy

Brown sugar does more than sweeten cookies—it transforms them. It contains molasses, a natural moisture-retaining ingredient. This gives the cookies their signature chewiness and helps them stay soft longer than cookies made with only white granulated sugar.

Brown sugar also contributes:

• A richer flavor profile (light caramel, warm sweetness)

• A deeper color

• A tender crumb

• Softer, thicker texture

If you’ve ever wondered why some sugar cookies dry out too fast, switching to brown sugar solves that problem beautifully.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients, making it great for last-minute baking or spontaneous cookie cravings. No chilling required, and no special equipment beyond a mixer and baking sheets.

Dry Ingredients

All-Purpose Flour
Provides structure and stability. Use spoon-and-level method for accuracy.

Baking Soda
Helps the cookies spread slightly while staying soft in the center.

Salt
Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.

Wet Ingredients

Unsalted Butter (Softened)
Creaming butter with sugar helps achieve that fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Light Brown Sugar
The star ingredient—adds moisture, chewiness, and caramel notes.

Granulated Sugar
Keeps the cookies light while adding a slight crisp to the edges.

Large Eggs
Bind and provide richness.

Vanilla Extract
Adds warm flavor and enhances the sweetness.

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Chewy Brown Sugar Cookie Recipe

Ingredients List

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 ¼ cups packed light brown sugar

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

• 1 large egg + 1 egg yolk

• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

• Additional granulated sugar for rolling (optional)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Your Baking Sheets

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats for even baking and easy cleanup.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and creamy. This process takes about 2–3 minutes and introduces air, helping the cookies bake with a soft, puffy texture.

Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Mix until well incorporated. The extra egg yolk increases richness and enhances chewiness.

Combine Everything

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients. Mix until the dough just comes together. Do not overmix—it can toughen the cookies.

Shape the Cookies

Scoop 1–2 tablespoons of dough per cookie. Roll gently into balls and coat lightly in granulated sugar if you want a sparkly finish.

Place the dough balls at least 2 inches apart on the baking sheets.

Bake

Bake for 9–12 minutes, depending on the size of your cookies. Remove them when the edges look set, but the centers still appear soft. They will finish cooking on the baking sheet.

Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before moving them to a wire rack.

The result: thick, chewy, warmly sweet cookies perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy evenings with a cup of cocoa.

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Pro Tips for Perfect Chewy Cookies Every Time

Don’t Overbake

The secret to chewy sugar cookies is removing them from the oven when the centers still look slightly underdone. They continue baking from residual heat.

Use Extra Egg Yolk

One extra yolk boosts richness, enhances moisture, and produces a softer cookie.

Room-Temperature Butter Is Key

Softened butter blends more easily with sugar, creating a fluffy mixture that leads to a softer texture.

Brown Sugar Must Be Packed

Loosely filled brown sugar measurings will affect texture. Pack it firmly for accurate sweetness and moisture.

Chill the Dough (Optional)

Although not required, chilling your dough for 30 minutes reduces spreading and intensifies flavor.

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Flavor Variations and Add-In Ideas

These chewy brown sugar cookies are perfect on their own, but they’re also a fantastic canvas for creative holiday flavors.

Cinnamon Sugar Coating

Roll balls in a mix of granulated sugar and ground cinnamon (about ¼ cup sugar + 1 teaspoon cinnamon) for a warm seasonal aroma.

Brown Butter Brown Sugar Cookies

Brown the butter first, cool it, and proceed with the recipe. This adds nutty, toffee-like depth.

Frosted Brown Sugar Cookies

Top cooled cookies with vanilla buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or simple glaze.

Holiday Sprinkle Cookies

Roll the dough balls in festive sprinkles for Christmas cookie boxes.

Maple Twist

Replace 1 teaspoon of vanilla with maple extract for a cozy breakfast-inspired cookie.

Chocolate Drizzle

Melt dairy-safe chocolate and drizzle over the finished cookies for a gorgeous, rich finish.

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What to Serve with Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies

These cookies pair wonderfully with:

• Hot cocoa

• Warm tea

• Spiced coffee

• Milk (dairy or plant-based)

• Holiday charcuterie-style dessert boards (fruit, nuts, chocolates)

• Ice cream for cookie sandwiches

Their soft texture also makes them excellent for gifting because they stay delicious for days.

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Storage and Freezing Instructions

Storing

Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Adding a piece of white bread to the container helps keep them soft longer.

Freezing Cookie Dough

Roll dough into balls and freeze on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen by adding 1–2 extra minutes.

Freezing Baked Cookies

Place cooled cookies in layers separated by parchment paper. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature.

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Troubleshooting: Why Did My Cookies…

Spread Too Much?

• Butter may have been too soft.

• Dough may have been overmixed.

• Not enough flour.

Not Spread at All?

• Too much flour added.

• Dough too cold.

• Oven too hot.

Turn Out Dry?

• Overbaking is usually the cause.

• Sugar may not have been packed properly.

• Butter measurement may have been off.

Troubleshooting helps you adjust and perfect your cookies every time.

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Are These Cookies Good for Christmas Baking?

Absolutely! Their soft texture and warm flavor make them ideal for:

• Holiday cookie exchanges

• Dessert platters

• Edible gifts

• Family baking activities

• Christmas Eve treats

• Winter parties

Brown sugar gives them a cozy, seasonal feel that fits perfectly with winter celebrations.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar?

Yes, but the flavor will be deeper and more molasses-forward. The cookies may also appear darker and slightly chewier.

Do I need to chill the dough?

No, the recipe works without chilling. However, chilling for 20–30 minutes helps reduce spreading and deepens flavor.

Can I make these cookies without eggs?

You may use an egg replacer designed for baking, but texture may vary slightly.

Are these cookies soft or crisp?

They are soft, chewy, and tender with lightly crisped edges.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Reducing sugar will alter texture and moisture. For best chewiness, keep the sugar amounts as written.

What’s the best way to package these for gifting?

Place them in decorative tins or cellophane bags with parchment paper between layers. Add a festive ribbon for an extra touch.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Use a high-quality 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. Texture will be slightly different, but still delicious.

Why do my cookies turn out cakey?

This often happens from overmixing, too much flour, or using cold butter.

Can I double or triple the recipe?

Yes, the recipe multiplies beautifully. Just ensure your mixer can handle the volume.

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Final Thoughts

These chewy brown sugar cookies are everything a holiday cookie should be—soft, chewy, warm, sweet, and deeply comforting. With rich brown sugar flavor and an easy, no-fail method, they’re perfect for the busy holiday season when you want reliable, delicious cookies without complicated steps.

This recipe brings together the magic of winter baking with simple ingredients and festive spirit. Whether you’re preparing a holiday dessert tray, filling a cookie tin for gifting, or baking a cozy batch just for yourself, these cookies promise timeless comfort and irresistible chewiness.

If you’re craving cookies that stay soft for days, burst with brown sugar flavor, and are simple enough for any skill level, this is your new go-to recipe. Enjoy every soft bite—and happy holiday baking!