French Butter Cookies (Sable Breton)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These French butter cookies are incredibly easy to make and come together quickly, yet they taste like a high-end bakery treat. The combination of salted butter and a hint of vanilla creates a flavor that is both rich and comforting. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of tea or as a quick snack, these cookies will satisfy your sweet tooth. Plus, the simple ingredients mean you can whip them up anytime with little preparation.

Ingredients

• ½ cup + 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

• ½ cup + 5 tablespoon salted butter*

• 3 egg yolks, separated

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 cups + 2 tablespoon all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting work surface

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.

2. Beat the butter and sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 1 minute.

3. Add 2 egg yolks and vanilla extract, and mix on medium speed until well combined. Scrape the bowl with a rubber spatula and continue mixing.

4. Add the flour gradually, mixing on low speed until the dough begins to come together.

5. Lightly flour a wooden board or countertop. Transfer the dough onto the surface and shape it into a ball. Sprinkle some flour on top and roll the dough out until it’s about ¼" thick.

6. Use a medium round cookie cutter (about 2.25"/5.75 cm) to cut out round cookies. Transfer the cookie rounds onto the baking sheet, spacing them apart.

7. Beat the remaining egg yolk in a small bowl and use a fork to create a cross-hatch pattern on top of each cookie.

8. Brush the cookies with the beaten egg yolk.

9. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown. Let them cool completely on a wire rack.

Servings and timing

• Yield: 20 cookies

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate-Dipped: Once the cookies have cooled, dip half of each cookie in melted dark or milk chocolate for an extra decadent treat.

• Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced flavor.

• Citrus Twist: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the dough for a refreshing citrus note.

Storage/Reheating

Store your French Butter Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge or freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for a few minutes to restore their fresh-baked taste.

FAQs

1. Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted butter?

Yes! If you're using unsalted butter, add about ½ teaspoon of salt to the dough to replicate the flavor of salted butter.

2. How do I make these cookies dairy-free?

You can replace the butter with a dairy-free alternative, such as margarine or coconut oil. Make sure to check that your egg yolks and other ingredients are dairy-free as well.

3. Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, you can freeze the dough before rolling it out. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before rolling and cutting.

4. Can I make these cookies with a different flavor profile?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different extracts like almond or hazelnut for unique flavors.

5. What should I do if the dough is too sticky to roll out?

If your dough is too sticky, lightly sprinkle more flour on the dough and the surface you're rolling it out on. You can also chill the dough in the fridge for 10-15 minutes to make it easier to work with.

6. Can I use a different type of flour?

All-purpose flour is best for this recipe, but you could substitute a portion of the flour with almond or oat flour for a different texture.

7. How thick should I roll out the dough?

Aim for about ¼ inch thickness. This will give the cookies a perfect balance of crispiness and tenderness.

8. Can I add filling or icing to these cookies?

These cookies are simple on their own, but feel free to get creative! You can sandwich them with jam, chocolate ganache, or buttercream for a filled version.

9. Why didn’t my cookies brown as expected?

If your cookies didn’t brown, they may have been too thick, or your oven temperature might not have been high enough. Ensure the oven is preheated to the correct temperature and bake the cookies until golden.

10. How can I get a nice pattern on the cookies?

To get the perfect cross-hatch design, press the fork gently but firmly into the dough. Make sure not to press too hard, as you don’t want to distort the cookie shape.

Conclusion

These French Butter Cookies (Sable Breton) are a delightful and simple treat that brings a taste of France into your home. Whether you're enjoying them as a snack with coffee or serving them at a gathering, their buttery flavor and crisp texture make them a sure hit. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can bake up a batch of these delicious cookies that will melt in your mouth and leave everyone asking for more.

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