French butter cookies, also known as Sablé Breton, are classic, melt-in-your-mouth treats that are perfect with a cup of tea or coffee. These cookies have a tender crumb, a delicate buttery flavor, and are just the right balance of sweetness. Made with simple ingredients, they’re easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or simply craving something sweet, these cookies are sure to hit the spot.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to making these buttery delights!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking and to make cleanup easier.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, using a hand mixer or stand mixer, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is light, fluffy, and smooth, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This step is key for giving the cookies their tender texture.
Step 3: Add the Vanilla Extract
Mix in the vanilla extract until it is fully combined with the butter and sugars. The vanilla adds a subtle flavor that enhances the buttery richness of the cookies.
Step 4: Mix in the Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until the dough comes together. The dough should be soft and pliable, but not sticky. If it feels too dry, add a teaspoon of milk or water, but be careful not to overwork the dough.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls using your hands, and place them on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart to allow for slight spreading. Once all the balls are formed, gently flatten each one with a fork or your fingers to create a slight disc shape.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them towards the end to ensure they don’t overbake, as these cookies should remain pale with just a touch of color around the edges.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. The cookies will be delicate and may crumble if moved while still warm, so be gentle.
Serving and Storage Tips:
- Serving: These butter cookies are perfect on their own, but you can elevate them with a dusting of powdered sugar or enjoy them alongside your favorite hot beverage. They’re also delicious when sandwiched with a bit of jam or chocolate spread.
- Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They will maintain their soft, buttery texture when stored properly.
- Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked dough balls for up to 2 months. Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, thaw them slightly and bake as directed.
Helpful Notes:
- Butter: Use room temperature butter for best results. This helps the ingredients blend smoothly and gives the cookies their signature tender texture.
- Vanilla: You can swap out vanilla extract for almond extract for a nutty twist, or use a vanilla bean for a more intense flavor.
- Flour: Make sure not to overmix the dough once the flour is added, as this can result in tough cookies. Mix just until combined for the best texture.
- Sea Salt: For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of the cookies before baking. The salt will complement the sweetness and enhance the buttery richness.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs:
- Dorie Greenspan suggests rolling the dough into a log, chilling it, and slicing it into rounds for perfectly even cookies.
- Martha Stewart recommends brushing the tops of the cookies with a little egg wash and sprinkling with coarse sugar before baking for added crunch and shine.
- Julia Child advises using high-quality European-style butter to bring out the best flavor in these simple cookies, as the butter is the star ingredient.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but reduce the added salt to a pinch or omit it entirely to avoid the cookies becoming too salty.
2. Can I add other flavorings to the cookies?
Absolutely! You can add zest from citrus fruits like lemon or orange, or try adding a bit of almond extract for a different flavor profile.
3. Why are my cookies spreading too much?
If your cookies are spreading too much, the butter may have been too soft. Try chilling the dough for 20 minutes before baking to help the cookies hold their shape.
4. Can I decorate these cookies?
Yes! You can dip them in melted chocolate, drizzle them with a glaze, or even roll the dough in colored sugar before baking for a festive touch.
5. What should I do if the dough is too dry?
If the dough seems too dry and crumbly, add a teaspoon of milk or water and mix until it comes together. Be careful not to add too much liquid.
6. How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are ready when the edges are just starting to turn golden. They will continue to firm up as they cool, so avoid overbaking them.
7. Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, the dough freezes well. You can freeze the dough balls or form it into a log, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months.
8. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
You can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but the texture will be denser, and the flavor slightly nuttier.
9. How do I make the cookies crispier?
For a crispier texture, you can bake the cookies a little longer, or reduce the amount of powdered sugar slightly and increase the granulated sugar.
10. Can I make these cookies vegan?
Yes, you can make these cookies vegan by using plant-based butter and replacing the granulated sugar with a vegan-friendly option.
These French Butter Cookies are a simple yet elegant treat, perfect for any occasion. Their buttery texture and delicate sweetness make them a timeless favorite that everyone will love. Enjoy!