Classic French Salted Butter Cookies, or Breton Sablés, have a cozy charm that takes you straight to the heart of France. These delightful treats are perfect when you’re in the mood for something sweet yet simple. I remember making them with my family on lazy Sunday afternoons, the aroma of buttery goodness filling the kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients, these cookies are versatile enough for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply craving a comforting snack with your afternoon tea.

What makes this recipe special

These cookies are a delightful blend of texture and flavor that will capture your heart. Here’s why you should give them a try: they are quick to whip up, budget-friendly, and sure to please kids and adults alike. Their rich buttery taste paired with just the right amount of sweetness makes them a standout treat. Whether you’re serving them during holidays, at a family brunch, or just because it’s Tuesday, they work perfectly in any setting.

"These salted butter cookies remind me of my trip to France. They are incredibly buttery, and the texture is just perfect. I can’t stop at one!"

Step-by-step overview

Making Classic French Salted Butter Cookies is a straightforward process. You’ll start by preparing your dough, chilling it, and then slicing it into rounds for baking. The entire process can be done in about an hour, making it a perfect weekend baking project or a last-minute dessert for unexpected guests. Let’s dive into the details, starting with what you need!

Key ingredients

To make these delightful cookies, gather the following:

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

If you want to experiment, feel free to swap out the vanilla for almond extract or add some lemon zest for a refreshing twist!

Directions to follow

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened salted butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the vanilla extract and mix thoroughly.
4. Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing until you have a cohesive dough.
5. Shape the dough into logs and wrap them in plastic wrap, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
6. Once chilled, slice the dough into rounds and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Brush the tops with egg yolk for a lovely, shiny finish.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack before serving.

Best ways to enjoy it

These Classic French Salted Butter Cookies are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve them with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea for an afternoon pick-me-up. You can also pair them with a scoop of ice cream for an indulgent dessert. For a creative twist, serve them alongside fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream. The options are endless!

Storage and reheating tips

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week, but I promise they will probably disappear much sooner! If you wish to freeze them, place the sliced dough logs in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn.

Helpful cooking tips

Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfect every time:

• Make sure your butter is at room temperature before starting to cream it with sugar; this helps create that light and fluffy texture.
• Don’t skip the chilling step; it’s essential for the cookies to hold their shape during baking.
• If you want to add a bit of crunch, consider sprinkling some coarse sea salt on top just before baking for an elegant finish.

Creative twists

Feel free to give your cookies a twist! Consider adding chocolate chips or nuts for added flavor and texture. Dried fruits, like cranberries or cherries, can also make a delightful addition. For a more adventurous blend, try incorporating matcha powder for a unique touch.

Common questions

How long does it take to prepare these cookies?

The active preparation time is about 30 minutes, but you’ll need to chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before slicing and baking. Plan for a total of about 1 hour.

Can I use unsalted butter instead?

Absolutely! If you prefer unsalted butter, just add a pinch more salt to the dough to match the recipe’s original intention.

How should I store the cookies?

Store your Classic French Salted Butter Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, keep the raw dough logs in the freezer for a few months.

With this guide, you’re all set to make these delicious cookies that will surely become a favorite in your home. Happy baking!

Classic French Salted Butter Cookies

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Delightful buttery cookies that are easy to make and perfect for any occasion.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 24 cookies 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: French
• Diet: None

Ingredients

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

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cream together softened salted butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add vanilla extract and mix thoroughly.
4. Gradually add all-purpose flour and salt, mixing until a cohesive dough forms.
5. Shape the dough into logs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
6. Slice chilled dough into rounds and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
7. Brush tops with egg yolk.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
9. Allow to cool on a wire rack before serving.

Notes

For added flavor, experiment with almond extract or lemon zest. Don’t skip the chilling step to help cookies maintain shape while baking.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 80mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 30mg