French Butter Cookies

Delicately crisp, golden-edged, and melt-in-your-mouth tender, these French Butter Cookies—also known as Sablés Breton—are a classic treat from the Brittany region of France. Made with simple ingredients and a generous amount of rich butter, these cookies are beloved for their elegant texture and subtle sweetness. Perfect with a cup of tea or coffee, they’re easy to make yet taste like they came straight from a French pâtisserie.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Rich & Buttery – Real butter is the star for authentic French flavor.
Delicate Texture – Light, crumbly, and tender with every bite.
Simple Ingredients – No complicated steps or tools required.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Dough can be chilled or frozen in advance.
Elegant Treat – Perfect for gifting or a refined dessert platter.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ⅔ cup powdered sugar
• 2 large egg yolks (plus 1 more for brushing, optional)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ tsp salt
• 2 cups all-purpose flour

Optional Toppings or Finishes:

• Coarse sanding sugar for a bit of crunch
• Sea salt flakes for a sweet-salty twist
• Melted dark chocolate for drizzling

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowl
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Plastic wrap
• Rolling pin
• Cookie cutter (round or fluted)
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cream the Butter & Sugar
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
Add egg yolks, vanilla, and salt; beat until smooth.

Step 2: Add the Flour
Gradually mix in the flour, just until the dough comes together.
The dough will be soft but should not be sticky.
Form into a disc, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Step 3: Roll & Cut
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼-inch thick.
Cut into desired shapes and place cookies on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 4: Optional Egg Wash
For a shiny, golden top, brush cookies with a beaten egg yolk.
You can also lightly score the tops with a fork or knife for a classic look.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden.
Cool on the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Step 6: Serve or Store
Serve plain or decorate with a drizzle of melted chocolate, a sprinkle of sugar, or sea salt.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

Tips for the Best French Butter Cookies
Use High-Quality Butter – It’s the key ingredient, so the flavor matters.
Chill the Dough – Keeps cookies from spreading too much and improves texture.
Don’t Overbake – These cookies should be pale with slightly golden edges.
Score the Tops – Adds a traditional bakery-style look.
Weigh Ingredients – For precision and consistent texture.

Serving Suggestions
Tea or Coffee Break – The perfect companion for a warm drink.
Holiday Gifting – Wrap in tins or boxes for a classy homemade present.
Dessert Boards – Add elegance to a cookie or pastry tray.
After-Dinner Treat – Light, simple, and satisfying.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:

• Room Temperature: Keep in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Refrigerate: Store dough for up to 3 days before baking.

Freezing:

• Dough: Freeze wrapped tightly for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before rolling.
• Baked Cookies: Freeze in layers separated by parchment for up to 1 month.

Reheating:

• Not needed—best enjoyed at room temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use salted butter?
Yes, just reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe.

2. Can I flavor the dough?
Yes—try adding lemon zest, almond extract, or orange blossom water for a twist.

3. What makes these different from shortbread?
French butter cookies (sablés) are slightly sweeter and often include egg yolks, giving them a richer, more delicate texture than traditional shortbread.

4. Can I skip the egg wash?
Yes, but it gives a lovely sheen and enhances presentation.

5. Can I make these gluten-free?
Use a high-quality 1:1 gluten-free baking flour for the closest result.

Final Thoughts
French Butter Cookies are a timeless classic—simple yet refined, rich yet delicate. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, hosting a tea party, or just craving something sweet, these cookies deliver elegant flavor in every bite.

Bake a batch and bring a touch of France into your kitchen. Don’t forget to tag your cookies online—I’d love to see your creations!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Baking Time: 12 minutes
Cuisine: French

Nutritional Information (Per Cookie):
Calories: 120 | Protein: 1g | Carbohydrates: 11g | Fat: 8g | Sugar: 4g | Sodium: 35mg

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