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; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delight in the rich, buttery flavor of these classic French butter cookies.

Created by

Lydia Spencer

Last updated on 2025-12-23T03:51:39.624Z

These French butter cookies, known as 'Sablés,' are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich flavor make them irresistible!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich buttery flavor that melts in your mouth
Simple to make with minimal ingredients
Perfect for tea time or as a delightful gift

      

A Taste of France

French butter cookies, known as 'Sablés,' are a delightful treat that captures the essence of French pastry tradition. Their simplicity and rich flavor make them a popular choice for both everyday snacking and special occasions. These cookies are characterized by their delicate texture and buttery taste, which pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee.

The beauty of French butter cookies lies in their versatility. You can enjoy them as-is or customize them with various add-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit. This adaptability makes them a fantastic option for any dessert table or as a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family.

Baking Tips for Perfect Cookies

When making French butter cookies, the key to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture is the creaming method. Be sure to beat the butter and sugars together until they are light and fluffy, which incorporates air into the mixture and creates a tender crumb. Additionally, using high-quality butter will significantly enhance the flavor of your cookies.

Chilling the dough is another essential step. It not only makes it easier to slice but also helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking. If you’re short on time, you can chill the dough for a minimum of 30 minutes, but longer is always better for flavor development.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once baked, French butter cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To keep them fresh, consider layering them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. For longer storage, they can be frozen for up to three months. Just be sure to thaw them at room temperature before serving.

These cookies are perfect for any occasion. Serve them at tea time, alongside a dessert platter, or as a sweet addition to your holiday cookie boxes. They also make for a charming gift when packaged in decorative tins or boxes, showcasing your baking skills and thoughtfulness.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

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

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.

Shape the Cookies

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and roll it into a log about 1.5 inches in diameter. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the chilled dough into 1/4-inch thick rounds and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy!

These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.

The History of Butter Cookies

Butter cookies have a rich history that dates back to the 18th century in France. Known for their simplicity and rich taste, they quickly became a staple in French households. The term 'Sablé' is derived from a town in Normandy, famous for its sandy beaches and equally sandy-textured cookies.

Traditionally, these cookies were made with just a few basic ingredients: butter, flour, sugar, and salt. Over time, variations emerged, incorporating different flavors and textures, making them a beloved treat across many cultures. Today, they continue to be a symbol of French baking finesse.

Pairing Suggestions

French butter cookies are wonderfully versatile and can be paired with a variety of beverages. A classic pairing is with a robust cup of coffee or a soothing herbal tea. The buttery richness of the cookies complements the flavors of these drinks beautifully, enhancing your overall tasting experience.

For a more decadent option, consider pairing these cookies with a glass of dessert wine or champagne. The slight sweetness of the cookies harmonizes with the fruity notes of the wine, making for an indulgent treat that is perfect for celebrations.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use salted butter?

Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe.

→ How do I store the cookies?

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

→ Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, you can freeze the wrapped dough for up to 3 months.

→ What variations can I try?

You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or lemon zest for different flavors.