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Imagine yourself sitting at a charming Parisian café, sipping coffee as the Eiffel Tower glimmers in the distance. Now, add the perfect buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookie to that scene—French Butter Cookies, or “Sablés.” These delicate, golden treats bring the essence of France right into your kitchen! Whether you’re baking for loved ones, preparing a thoughtful gift, or indulging in a quiet moment, these cookies promise simple luxury in every bite. Let’s create some edible magic!
Why You’ll Love This French Butter Cookies Recipe
Effortlessly Elegant: Simple ingredients come together to make cookies that are rich and flavorful.
Customizable: Perfect as is, but also a great base for your creative spins.
Versatile Treat: A perfect pairing for coffee, tea, or as a holiday gift.
Beginner-Friendly: Easy-to-follow steps that deliver professional results.
Ingredients For a Perfect French Butter Cookies
Here’s why each ingredient makes these cookies shine:
Unsalted Butter (1 cup): The cornerstone of rich, buttery flavor. Use high-quality butter for the best results.
Granulated Sugar (½ cup): Adds a touch of sweetness and structure to the dough.
Powdered Sugar (½ cup): Provides a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
All-Purpose Flour (2 cups): The essential base that binds the cookies together.
Salt (¼ teaspoon): A subtle enhancer that brings out the butter’s richness.
Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Adds a warm, aromatic depth.
Optional Substitutions:
Gluten-Free Flour: For a gluten-free twist.
Coconut Sugar: For a refined sugar alternative with a hint of caramel flavor.
How To Make French Butter Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and even baking.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a mixing bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is light, fluffy, and absolutely irresistible (try not to eat it yet!).
Step 3: Add Vanilla Extract
Mix in the vanilla extract to infuse the dough with its cozy, sweet aroma.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the butter mixture. Stir gently to combine, ensuring you don’t overmix—this keeps the cookies tender and delicate.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each ball.
Flatten gently with a fork, your fingers, or a cookie stamp for decorative designs.
Step 6: Bake
Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them—when the edges are just turning golden, it’s time to take them out. Overbaking can make them lose their buttery softness!
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Transfer the cookies to a wire rack and let them cool completely before serving. The hardest part is waiting, but trust me, it’s worth it!
Cooking Tips & Techniques For Making The French Butter Cookies
Use Quality Butter: European-style butter works wonders for these cookies with its higher fat content.
Chill for Precision: If the dough feels too soft, refrigerate it for 15 minutes before shaping.
Don’t Overbake: Lightly golden edges mean perfection—anything darker can make the cookies dry.
Recommended Equipment
- Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: Shop on Amazon
- Mixing Bowls: Shop on Amazon
- Baking Sheet: Shop on Amazon
- Parchment Paper: Shop on Amazon
- Wire Rack: Shop on Amazon
How to Serve It
With Coffee or Tea: These cookies are the perfect companion to your morning or afternoon brew.
As a Dessert Platter: Pair with macarons and fresh fruit for a stunning spread.
Gift-Worthy: Wrap in a decorative box or cellophane bag with a ribbon for a thoughtful gift.
Diet-Friendly Options
Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour substitute.
Dairy-Free: Replace butter with a plant-based alternative like vegan margarine.
Sugar-Free: Swap the sugars with granulated sugar-free alternatives like erythritol.
Best Ways to Store
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 7 days.
Freeze the Dough: Roll dough into balls and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the bake time.
Freeze Baked Cookies: Store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Recipe Variations
Citrus Sablés: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest for a refreshing twist.
Chocolate-Dipped: Once cooled, dip the cookies in melted chocolate and let them set for an indulgent treat.
Nutty Delight: Add finely chopped almonds or hazelnuts to the dough for extra crunch.
ALSO READ: How to Bake Soft & Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies – The Perfect Comfort Treat!
Wrap Up
With their rich, buttery flavor and delicate texture, these French Butter Cookies are as delightful to make as they are to eat. Perfect for sharing or savoring with a warm drink, they’re sure to become a favorite in your cookie repertoire. Bon appétit!
Common Questions Answered
Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but reduce the added salt to 1/8 teaspoon to avoid overpowering the flavor.
Why use two types of sugar?
Granulated sugar provides structure, while powdered sugar ensures a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
What if I don’t have parchment paper?
Grease your baking sheet lightly with butter to prevent sticking.
Ready to taste a slice of French elegance? These cookies will transport you straight to Paris! 🥐✨
Delicious French Butter Cookies
Equipment
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Wire rack
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Substitutions:
- Gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version
- Coconut sugar as a refined sugar alternative
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
- Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar using a hand or stand mixer on medium speed. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, forming the base of the cookie dough.
- Add Vanilla Extract: Mix in the vanilla extract to infuse the dough with a warm, sweet aroma.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the mixture. Mix until just combined, avoiding overmixing to maintain a tender texture. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky.
- Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each. Gently flatten each ball with a fork or your fingers to create a classic butter cookie shape, or use a cookie cutter for decorative designs.
- Bake: Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden. Keep a close eye to avoid overbaking, as the goal is tender, buttery centers.
- Cool and Serve: Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve fresh or store in an airtight container for later enjoyment.
Notes
- 🧈 The key to perfect French Butter Cookies is soft, high-quality butter.
- 🍪 For added flair, sprinkle a touch of sugar or drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies before serving.