French Butter Cookies : A Buttery Treat

If you love buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies, these French Butter Cookies (Sablés) are the perfect treat! With simple ingredients like butter, sugar, and flour, these classic French cookies have a rich, crumbly texture that pairs beautifully with tea, coffee, or as part of a cookie swap.

Whether you’re searching for an easy butter cookie recipe, a traditional French butter biscuit, or the best cookies for gifting, these delicate and delicious cookies will become a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Save

Why You’ll Love These French Butter Cookies

• Rich & Buttery Flavor – Made with high-quality butter for the best taste.
• Simple & Elegant – Only five basic ingredients needed!
• Easy to Make – No fancy techniques, just mix, chill, and bake.
• Versatile & Customizable – Add lemon zest, vanilla, or chocolate drizzle for variety.
• Perfect for Gifting – Great for cookie swaps, holidays, or afternoon tea.

Ingredients for French Butter Cookies

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 egg yolk
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or almond extract)
• 2 tablespoons coarse sugar (for topping, optional)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make these French butter cookies, you’ll need:

• Mixing bowl
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Rolling pin
• Cookie cutter or knife

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make French Butter Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar until creamy and smooth.
2. Add egg yolk and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
3. Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

1. Shape the dough into a log (for round cookies) or flatten into a disc (for cut-out cookies).
2. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for at least 1 hour.

Step 3: Shape & Bake the Cookies

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. If using a log shape, slice into ¼-inch rounds. If rolling out, use a cookie cutter.
3. Sprinkle with coarse sugar for extra crunch (optional).
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until edges are lightly golden.

Step 4: Cool & Serve

1. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
2. Enjoy with tea, coffee, or as a light dessert!

Save

Expert Tips for the Best Butter Cookies

• Use high-quality butter – It makes a huge difference in flavor.
• Chill the dough – Prevents spreading and ensures perfectly shaped cookies.
• Don’t overmix the dough – Overworking it can make the cookies tough.
• Want a crispier cookie? – Roll the dough thinner before baking.
• For an extra rich taste – Brush with an egg wash before baking.

Fun Variations of French Butter Cookies

• Chocolate-Dipped Butter Cookies – Dip in melted dark or white chocolate.
• Lemon Butter Cookies – Add lemon zest for a fresh citrus flavor.
• Almond Butter Cookies – Substitute almond extract for vanilla.
• Jam-Filled Butter Cookies – Make a thumbprint in the center and fill with jam.
• Cinnamon Sugar Butter Cookies – Sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar before baking.

How to Store & Keep Butter Cookies Fresh

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Freeze the Dough: Wrap in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Freeze Baked Cookies: Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Serving Ideas and Presentation Tips

• Serve with tea, coffee, or hot cocoa for a cozy treat.
• Stack in a decorative tin for gifting.
• Pair with fresh berries and whipped cream for a light dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Butter Cookies

• Skipping the chilling step – Dough must be cold to hold its shape.
• Using too much flour – Can make cookies dry instead of buttery.
• Overbaking – These cookies should be lightly golden, not brown.

Pairing Ideas: What to Serve with French Butter Cookies

• A glass of cold milk – A classic combination!
• A side of fresh fruit – Complements the buttery richness.
• Drizzled honey or caramel sauce – For an indulgent touch.

Save

FAQ Section

1. Can I make these cookies without chilling the dough?
Chilling is highly recommended, but if you’re in a rush, freeze the dough for 15 minutes instead.

2. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the best results.

3. Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Mix in chopped almonds, pecans, or mini chocolate chips.

Final Thoughts and Call to Action

These French Butter Cookies are a simple, elegant, and delicious treat that’s perfect for everyday snacking, special occasions, or a cookie swap. Whether you love classic butter cookies, cookies and candy, or bars cookies, this recipe is a must-try!

Try this butter cookie recipe today and share your results! Tag us on social media and subscribe for more delicious baking recipes!

Print