Miso in cookies? It might sound unusual, but trust me, the umami depth of miso paste adds an unexpected and utterly delicious complexity to classic chocolate chip cookies. Combined with the nutty richness of brown butter, these cookies are a revelation for your taste buds. This recipe elevates the humble chocolate chip cookie to a new level of sophistication, offering a balance of sweet, salty, nutty, and savory that's truly irresistible.
Why Miso Works in Cookies
Before we dive into the recipe, let's address the elephant in the room: miso paste in cookies. The secret lies in miso's umami flavor, a savory taste that complements the sweetness of chocolate and the nutty notes of brown butter perfectly. White miso, with its milder, sweeter flavor, is generally preferred for baking, as it avoids overpowering the other ingredients. It adds a subtle depth and complexity that enhances the overall experience, rather than dominating it.
What is Brown Butter?
Brown butter, or beurre noisette, is simply butter that has been cooked until its milk solids are toasted, resulting in a rich, nutty aroma and flavor. This process significantly improves the texture and taste of the cookies, giving them a deeper, more complex flavor profile. The browning process also imparts a beautiful golden-brown color to the cookies.
How to Make Miso Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
This recipe is designed to deliver maximum flavor and texture. Follow these steps carefully for the best results:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- ½ cup white miso paste
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
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Brown the butter: Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Continue cooking, swirling the pan occasionally, until the butter foams, then browns, and smells nutty (about 8-10 minutes). Be careful not to burn it. Immediately remove from heat and pour into a heatproof bowl to cool slightly.
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Combine wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the cooled brown butter, miso paste, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until well combined. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
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Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
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Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
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Add chocolate chips: Stir in the chocolate chips.
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Chill the dough: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 days). This chilling step helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
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Bake the cookies: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto ungreased baking sheets. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are still slightly soft.
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Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of miso paste?
While white miso is recommended for its milder flavor, you can experiment with other types. However, keep in mind that red or awase miso will impart a stronger, more pungent flavor that might overpower the other ingredients.
What if I don't have brown butter?
While brown butter significantly enhances the flavor, you can substitute it with regular melted butter. The cookies will still be delicious, but they will lack the nutty depth of the brown butter version.
How long can I store these cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Can I add other mix-ins?
Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts, dried fruits, or other types of chocolate chips to customize your cookies.
What makes these cookies different from regular chocolate chip cookies?
The combination of miso paste and brown butter creates a unique flavor profile that's both savory and sweet, adding depth and complexity to the classic chocolate chip cookie. The nutty notes of the brown butter and the subtle umami of the miso elevate the experience to a whole new level.
By following this recipe, you'll create cookies that are not only delicious but also impressive, showcasing your culinary creativity. Enjoy!
