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French Butter Cookies – Easy, Buttery, and Delicious

French Butter Cookies – Easy, Buttery, and Delicious


Description

Welcome, cookie lovers! Today, we’re diving into the delicious world of French Butter Cookies. If you’re a fan of melt-in-your-mouth cookies with a rich buttery flavor, then you’re in for a treat! These cookies, also known as Sablés in France, are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of coffee or packing them as a gift, this French Butter Cookies recipe will never disappoint. Get ready to bake something truly magical!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – The key to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
  • ½ cup granulated sugar – Provides sweetness and helps in the creaming process.
  • ½ cup powdered sugar – Adds a delicate sweetness and smooth texture.
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour – The base that gives these cookies their structure.
  • ¼ teaspoon salt – Balances out the sweetness.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor of the butter and adds a touch of warmth.

Optional Substitutions:

  • Gluten-free flour can be used in place of all-purpose flour for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Coconut sugar can replace granulated sugar for a refined-sugar-free option.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures that your cookies won’t stick and helps them bake evenly.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until smooth. The goal here is to create a light, fluffy mixture that will form the base of your cookie dough. For best results, use a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed.

Step 3: Add Vanilla

Once the butter and sugars are well combined, mix in the vanilla extract. This will infuse the dough with a subtle vanilla flavor that pairs beautifully with the buttery base.

Step 4: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

Gradually add in the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing just until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky.

Step 5: Form the Cookies

Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Flatten each ball slightly using a fork or your fingers, creating a classic butter cookie shape. If you prefer, you can use a cookie cutter for more decorative shapes.

Step 6: Bake

Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking, as you want them to remain tender in the center.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack before serving. These French Butter Cookies are delicious when enjoyed fresh, but they also store beautifully for later snacking!

Notes

  • Chill the dough: If the dough feels too soft, refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes. This will help the cookies hold their shape during baking.
  • Use quality butter: The flavor of these cookies heavily relies on butter, so splurge on a high-quality, European-style butter for the best results.
  • Sea salt finish: For a gourmet touch, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top of each cookie before baking. The contrast between sweet and salty is divine.