Classic French Butter Cookies: Buttery, Crisp & Irresistible

Introduction to French Butter Cookies

Few things in life are as satisfying as a perfectly baked French butter cookie. With their rich, buttery flavor and delicate crispness, these cookies are a staple in French patisseries. Known as “sablés”, these elegant treats have a melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes them perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee.

If you’re looking for a butter cookie recipe easy enough for beginners yet sophisticated enough for special occasions, this is the one! These cookies require only a handful of ingredients but deliver incredible flavor. Whether you’re making them for a cookie swap, serving them with dessert, or packaging them up as a thoughtful gift, they are sure to impress.

Let’s dive into the ingredients and step-by-step method to create these classic butter cookies recipe from scratch!

Save

Why You’ll Love These French Butter Cookies

• Simple & Elegant: Just a few basic ingredients create a rich, delicate flavor.
• Crisp & Buttery: The perfect balance of crisp edges and a tender center.
• Great for Gifting: Beautifully packaged, these make an ideal homemade gift.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve them with coffee, tea, or as part of a cookie swap.
• Versatile & Customizable: Add chocolate, nuts, or spices for unique variations.

If you adore cookies and candy, these butter cookies will quickly become a favorite treat!

Ingredients for French Butter Cookies

For the Cookie Dough:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg yolk

For Garnishing (Optional):

• ¼ cup granulated sugar, for sprinkling
• 1 egg yolk + 1 teaspoon water, for egg wash

If you love bars cookies, you can also press this dough into a pan and cut it into squares after baking for an easy bar-style variation!

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Rolling pin
• Cookie cutters (optional)
• Fork (for classic butter cookie design)

Now that you have everything ready, let’s get baking!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy.
2. Add the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add the flour, mixing just until the dough comes together. Do not overmix.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

1. Shape the dough into a disc and wrap it in plastic wrap.
2. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

Step 3: Roll and Shape the Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness.
3. Use a round cookie cutter or a knife to cut out cookies. Alternatively, shape them into a log and slice them into rounds for a traditional French butter cookie look.

Step 4: Add Egg Wash and Sugar Topping

1. Brush the tops of the cookies with egg wash for a golden shine.
2. Sprinkle lightly with granulated sugar for extra texture and sweetness.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies

1. Place cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
2. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Enjoy these delicate butter cookies recipe warm or at room temperature.
2. Serve them with tea, coffee, or a glass of milk for a delightful treat.

Save

Tips for the Best French Butter Cookies

• Use High-Quality Butter: Since butter is the star ingredient, choose a high-quality unsalted butter for the best flavor.
• Don’t Overwork the Dough: Overmixing can make the cookies tough instead of tender.
• Chill Before Baking: This helps maintain the cookies’ shape and prevents spreading.
• Use a Fork for Classic Sablé Texture: Lightly pressing a fork onto the tops of the cookies before baking gives them a beautiful, traditional look.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the Chilling Step: Warm dough will spread too much in the oven.
• Using Melted Butter: Softened, not melted, butter is key for the right texture.
• Overbaking: These cookies should be lightly golden on the edges but not dark brown.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

• Stack them in a decorative tin for a perfect gift.
• Serve on a dessert platter alongside macarons and madeleines.
• Pair with hot chocolate or espresso for a café-style treat.
• Arrange on a cookie swap table for a sophisticated touch.

Storage and Leftovers

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Refrigerator: Can be stored for up to 2 weeks in an airtight container.
• Freezer: Freeze unbaked cookie dough for up to 2 months. Simply slice and bake as needed.

French Butter Cookie Variations

• Chocolate-Dipped Butter Cookies: Dip half the cookie in melted dark chocolate.
• Lemon Butter Cookies: Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to the dough for a citrusy twist.
• Almond Butter Cookies: Replace vanilla extract with almond extract and add finely chopped almonds.
• Bars Cookies Style: Press dough into a baking pan and cut into bars after baking for a unique presentation.

Food Pairings for French Butter Cookies

• Classic Tea & Coffee Pairing: Perfect with black tea, espresso, or cappuccino.
• Cheese & Cookies: Pair with mild cheeses like brie for a gourmet snack.
• Fruit & Cookies: Serve with fresh berries for a light, elegant dessert.

Save

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Use Salted Butter Instead of Unsalted?

Yes, but reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe.

Can I Make These Cookies Gluten-Free?

Yes! Use a high-quality 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute for best results.

Do I Need a Cookie Cutter?

No, you can roll the dough into a log and slice into rounds instead.

Can I Store the Dough for Later Use?

Absolutely! Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Conclusion

These French butter cookies are a timeless classic that bring elegance and simplicity together in one bite. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion, a holiday cookie swap, or just because you love cookies, they are guaranteed to delight. Their crisp, buttery texture and rich flavor make them an irresistible treat you’ll want to bake again and again.

If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to share it with friends and family! For more butter cookies recipe inspiration, be sure to subscribe to our blog.

Print