Creme Brûlée Sugar Cookies (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Cookies

01 - 170 grams unsalted butter, softened
02 - 110 grams packed light brown sugar
03 - 100 grams granulated sugar
04 - 1 large egg
05 - 15 millilitres pure vanilla extract
06 - 250 grams all-purpose flour
07 - 8 grams cornstarch
08 - 5 grams baking soda
09 - 1 gram kosher salt

→ Frosting and Topping

10 - 225 grams cream cheese, softened
11 - 155 grams powdered sugar
12 - 5 millilitres pure vanilla extract
13 - 50 grams granulated sugar, for topping

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat oven to 175°C and line two baking trays with parchment paper, ensuring an even surface for each cookie.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, blend softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes. Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly.
03 - In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and kosher salt until homogenous.
04 - Gradually add the dry mixture to the creamed ingredients, blending until a thick, smooth dough forms.
05 - Scoop approximately 1-tablespoon portions of dough and place onto prepared trays, spacing evenly. Gently press each to flatten slightly. Bake for 9 to 10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
06 - Remove trays from oven and allow cookies to rest for 2 to 3 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
07 - In a clean bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Blend in powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth with no lumps.
08 - Place granulated sugar for topping into a shallow bowl. Spread approximately one tablespoon of frosting over each cooled cookie. Press the frosted side gently into sugar to evenly coat the surface.
09 - Immediately before serving, use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugared surface of each cookie until golden and crisp. Allow to set at room temperature.
10 - Store cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

# Notes:

01 - For optimal caramelization, move the torch in small circles just above the sugar until golden; avoid over-torching to prevent burning.
02 - Ensure cookies are completely cool before frosting to avoid melting the cream cheese layer.