These French Butter Cookies, also known as Sablés Breton, are tender, buttery cookies with a slightly crisp edge and a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Originating from Brittany, France, these cookies are known for their rich flavor, achieved by using high-quality butter. Perfect with a cup of tea or coffee, these elegant cookies are easy to make and absolutely irresistible. Let’s dive into this classic French recipe that’s sure to delight!

Table of Contents

1. Ingredients for French Butter Cookies
2. Instructions for French Butter Cookies
3. Tips & Notes
4. Recipe Variations & Substitutions
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
6. Conclusion

Ingredients for French Butter Cookies

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg (for brushing)

Instructions for French Butter Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

• In a large bowl, beat the butter, sugar, and salt together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
• Add the egg yolks one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 2: Add the Flour

• Gradually add the flour to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
• Form the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Dough

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
• On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out to about 1/4-inch thickness.
• Use a round cookie cutter (about 2 inches in diameter) to cut out cookies and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.

Step 4: Brush with Egg Wash

• In a small bowl, beat the egg and brush it lightly over the tops of the cookies for a beautiful golden finish.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies

• Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden.
• Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips & Notes

• High-Quality Butter: The flavor of these cookies largely depends on the butter, so use the best quality unsalted butter you can find.
• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough helps the cookies hold their shape during baking and enhances their tender texture.
• Egg Wash: Brushing the cookies with an egg wash gives them a glossy, golden finish, but you can skip this step if desired.

Recipe Variations & Substitutions

• Lemon Zest: Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to the dough for a bright citrus note.
• Almond Flour: Substitute 1/4 cup of the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a slightly nutty flavor.
• Chocolate Dipped: Once cooled, dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate and allow to set for a more decadent version.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do I store French Butter Cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough up to 2 days in advance and keep it refrigerated. Let it soften slightly at room temperature before rolling it out.

3. Why is the dough chilled before baking?

Chilling the dough helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking and gives them a tender, flaky texture.

These French Butter Cookies (Sablés Breton) are simple yet elegant, with a buttery flavor and tender crumb that make them the perfect accompaniment to tea or coffee. Easy to make and versatile, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your home. Give this classic recipe a try, and enjoy a little taste of France with every bite!

Happy baking, and enjoy these buttery delights!