French Butter Cookies

Name: French Butter Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 2 cups unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delight in the rich, buttery flavor of these classic French cookies, perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Harriet Collins

Last updated on 2025-12-22T21:51:32.540Z

French Butter Cookies are a delightful treat that embodies the essence of French pastry. With their crisp edges and tender, buttery centers, these cookies are perfect for tea time or as a sweet indulgence after dinner.

        Why You'll Love These Cookies
        Rich, buttery flavor that melts in your mouth
Simple to make with minimal ingredients
Perfect for gifting or holiday trays

      

A Taste of France

French butter cookies, also known as 'Sablés,' are a delightful treat that embodies the essence of French baking. Their tender, crumbly texture and rich flavor make them a favorite across the globe. With just a handful of ingredients, these cookies offer a taste of elegance that can elevate any occasion, from casual tea time to festive gatherings.

The beauty of these cookies lies in their simplicity. Made primarily from butter, sugar, and flour, they are a testament to the idea that great flavor doesn't need an elaborate recipe. Each bite is a reminder of why French cuisine is celebrated for its quality and richness.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These French butter cookies are versatile enough to be enjoyed in various settings. Whether you're hosting a sophisticated soirée or simply indulging in a quiet afternoon at home, they fit perfectly. Their delightful taste and charming appearance make them an excellent choice for gift-giving during the holidays, or as a sweet addition to a dessert platter.

Imagine presenting a beautifully arranged cookie tray to your guests, featuring these buttery delights alongside other treats. Their classic look and flavor appeal to all ages, ensuring that they will be a hit at any gathering.

Baking Tips for Success

To achieve the perfect texture for your French butter cookies, ensure that your butter is softened to room temperature. This allows for better incorporation with the sugar, creating that light and fluffy texture we all love. Also, be careful not to overmix the dough once you combine the dry ingredients; a gentle touch is key to maintaining the cookies’ crumbly nature.

Chilling the dough is a crucial step in this recipe. It not only helps to firm up the butter, making it easier to slice, but it also enhances the flavors as they meld together. A longer chill can yield even better results, so if you have the time, consider refrigerating the dough overnight.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

2 cups unsalted butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 3/4 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 bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Chill the Dough

Divide the dough into two portions and shape each into a log. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Bake the Cookies

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the chilled dough into 1/4 inch thick rounds and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12-15 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 to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy!

Store the cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Storage Tips

These French butter cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, consider freezing them. Simply place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can last up to three months in the freezer.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen cookies, allow them to thaw at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. This way, you can savor their delightful texture and rich flavor as if they were just baked.

Customization Ideas

One of the best things about French butter cookies is that they serve as a wonderful base for customization. Consider adding chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits to the dough for an extra flavor dimension. A sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking can also enhance the sweetness and make for an exquisite contrast.

For a festive twist, try incorporating citrus zest, such as lemon or orange, into the dough. This adds a refreshing brightness that pairs beautifully with the buttery richness of the cookies, making them even more irresistible.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked dough logs. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

→ What can I do if my dough is too soft?

If the dough is too soft to slice, chill it in the refrigerator for an additional 30 minutes.

→ Can I substitute the butter with margarine?

While margarine can be used, the flavor and texture may differ. For the best results, use unsalted butter.

→ How can I make these cookies more festive?

You can decorate the cookies with icing, sprinkle with colored sugar, or dip them in chocolate.