French Butter Cookies

Name: French Butter Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3/4 cup powdered sugar; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Indulge in the delicate and buttery flavor of these classic French Butter Cookies, perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Marianne Hughes

Last updated on 2025-12-21T08:20:55.023Z

French Butter Cookies are a timeless treat that captures the essence of French baking. With their rich buttery flavor and delicate texture, these cookies are perfect for tea time or as a sweet gift. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the butter to shine through, making every bite a delightful experience.

        Why You'll Love These Cookies
        Rich buttery flavor that melts in your mouth
Simple ingredients that yield impressive results
Perfect for pairing with coffee or tea
Versatile enough for any occasion

      

A Taste of France

French Butter Cookies, known as 'Sablés,' are a delightful treat that captures the essence of French pastry. With their rich, buttery flavor and crumbly texture, these cookies are a testament to the art of simple baking. Originating from the Normandy region, they have become a staple in French patisseries and are enjoyed by people of all ages. The use of high-quality butter is key, as it imparts a luxurious taste that elevates these cookies from ordinary to extraordinary.

These cookies are not just a dessert; they are a celebration of the French culinary tradition. Each bite offers a tender melt-in-your-mouth experience that leaves you craving more. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee, tea, or as an accompaniment to your favorite dessert, French Butter Cookies are sure to impress your guests and delight your taste buds.

Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the best features of French Butter Cookies is their versatility. They are perfect for a variety of occasions, from casual gatherings to elegant tea parties. Their simple yet sophisticated presentation makes them an ideal choice for festive celebrations such as Christmas, weddings, or birthday parties. You can even package them beautifully as homemade gifts for friends and family, adding a personal touch to any celebration.

Additionally, these cookies can be easily customized to suit your taste. Consider adding lemon zest for a refreshing twist or dipping them in chocolate for an indulgent treat. No matter how you choose to enjoy them, these cookies are bound to be a hit with everyone.

Baking Tips for Success

To achieve the perfect texture for your French Butter Cookies, it’s essential to use softened butter. This ensures that the butter incorporates well with the sugar, creating a light and airy dough. If you forget to take the butter out ahead of time, you can cut it into small pieces and let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes, or gently microwave it for a few seconds until softened but not melted.

When shaping the cookies, keep your hands lightly floured to prevent sticking. For an added touch of elegance, you can use cookie cutters to create fun shapes, or simply press a fork on the tops for a classic design. Remember to leave enough space between the cookies on the baking sheet, as they will spread slightly while baking.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup powdered sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

These ingredients will create a delicious batch of French Butter Cookies that everyone will love.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and mix well. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Shape the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Flatten each ball slightly with the palm of your hand.

Bake the Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.

Once cooled, enjoy your French Butter Cookies with a cup of tea or coffee!

Storing Your Cookies

To keep your French Butter Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to a week, retaining their delicious flavor and texture. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. Just make sure to layer them with parchment paper in a freezer-safe container to prevent sticking. Thaw them at room temperature before enjoying.

For added flavor, you can also experiment with different extracts like almond or hazelnut, which can complement the buttery base beautifully. Just remember that a little goes a long way, so start with a small amount and adjust to taste.

Pairing Suggestions

These buttery cookies pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages. A classic pairing is with a cup of rich, dark coffee—its bold flavor contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the cookies. For a lighter option, try serving them with herbal teas or even a glass of dessert wine, which can enhance the cookie's buttery richness.

For a unique twist, you can serve the cookies alongside fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries. The tartness of the fruit complements the sweetness of the cookies, creating a delightful balance that will elevate your dessert experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but it may alter the sweetness slightly. Adjust the amount of salt in the recipe accordingly.

→ How should I store the cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the dough?

Absolutely! You can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Just thaw and bake when ready.

→ What can I substitute for powdered sugar?

You can make your own by blending granulated sugar until fine, or use a sugar alternative if desired.