These French Butter Cookies are rich, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. With a delicate crumb and a hint of vanilla, they are perfect for tea time, holidays, or anytime you crave a simple yet elegant treat. Made with just a few ingredients, this classic recipe is easy to follow and sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich & Buttery Flavor: The high butter content makes these cookies soft and irresistible.
- Simple & Easy: Just 8 basic ingredients and minimal prep time.
- Perfect Texture: Crisp edges with a delicate, tender bite.
- Great for Any Occasion: Ideal for tea parties, holidays, or gifting.
- Customizable: Easily adapt for gluten-free or refined sugar-free options.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour substitute)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Substitutions:
- For a gluten-free version: Use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour.
- For a refined sugar-free version: Swap granulated sugar with coconut sugar.
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- Sift in the flour and salt, then mix gently until a soft dough forms.
Step 2: Chill the Dough
- Shape the dough into a log or disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Chilling helps the cookies hold their shape and enhances their flavor.
Step 3: Preheat & Prepare
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 4: Shape & Bake
- Roll out the dough to about ¼-inch thickness on a lightly floured surface.
- Use a cookie cutter or knife to cut into desired shapes.
- Arrange cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn light golden brown.
Step 5: Cool & Serve
- Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Enjoy as-is, or dust with powdered sugar for extra sweetness.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: About 24 cookies
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Bake Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Variations
- Lemon Butter Cookies: Add 1 teaspoon lemon zest for a fresh twist.
- Chocolate-Dipped: Dip half of each cookie in melted dark chocolate.
- Almond Flavor: Replace vanilla extract with almond extract for a nutty taste.
- Crispier Cookies: Bake for an extra 2-3 minutes for a crispier texture.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked dough logs for up to 2 months. Slice and bake as needed.
- Refrigeration: Keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days.
FAQs
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes! The dough can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days before baking.
Why do I need to chill the dough?
Chilling prevents the cookies from spreading too much and enhances the buttery flavor.
How do I make them softer or crispier?
- For softer cookies, bake for 10 minutes.
- For crispier cookies, bake for 12-14 minutes.
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but reduce the added salt to a pinch.
What can I serve with these cookies?
They pair wonderfully with coffee, tea, hot chocolate, or ice cream.
Can I add mix-ins?
Yes! Try adding chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit.
Do these cookies spread while baking?
Not much! Chilling the dough helps them hold their shape.
Can I roll the dough into balls instead of cutting shapes?
Yes! Roll into balls, flatten slightly, and bake as directed.
Can I use coconut flour instead?
No, coconut flour absorbs too much moisture and won’t yield the same texture.
How do I make them more festive?
Decorate with colored sugar, sprinkles, or a drizzle of icing!
Conclusion
These French Butter Cookies are buttery, delicate, and easy to make, making them the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them with tea, coffee, or as a holiday dessert, they are simple yet elegant. Try different variations and share these melt-in-your-mouth cookies with loved ones!
Print
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: About 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These French Butter Cookies (Sablés Breton) are rich, buttery, and melt in your mouth! Made with simple ingredients like butter, sugar, and vanilla, these classic cookies are perfect for tea time, holidays, or anytime you crave a sweet treat. Easy to make and irresistible, these cookies will quickly become a favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for a GF option)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add vanilla extract and mix until incorporated.
- Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
2. Chill the Dough:
- Shape the dough into a log (about 2 inches in diameter) and wrap it in plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
3. Slice & Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Slice the chilled dough into ¼-inch thick rounds and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
4. Cool & Serve:
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Enjoy with tea, coffee, or as a delightful holiday treat!
Notes
- For a refined sugar-free option, replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or almond extract.
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- chill time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Cookies
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
