French Butter Cookies, or Sablés Bretons, are the kind of cookie that proves less really is more. With just butter, sugar, flour, and vanilla, you get a delicate crumb and melt-in-your-mouth texture that feels both luxurious and comforting. Perfect with tea, coffee, or as a sweet afternoon treat, these cookies embody effortless French elegance.
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Why You’ll Love This French Butter Cookies
Sometimes the simplest recipes are the most rewarding, and these cookies are proof.
- Only five ingredients—ready in minutes
- Buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture
- Beautifully crisp edges with tender centers
- Elegant for holidays, gifts, or everyday indulgence
- No fancy tools or chilling required
- Versatile—decorate or enjoy plain
When I first tried these in a Paris bakery, I couldn’t believe how something so simple could taste so perfect. Back home in Texas, I recreated that same buttery flavor—and now they’re my go-to for when I want a taste of France with my morning coffee.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient plays a starring role in creating that signature French bakery texture and flavor.
Main Ingredients
- ½ cup butter, softened to room temperature – The heart of the cookie. Use high-quality butter for the best flavor.
- ½ cup powdered sugar, sifted – Adds smooth sweetness and helps the dough stay tender.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour – The base that gives light crispness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – For subtle, elegant aroma.
- Pinch of salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
Optional Add-Ons or Substitutes
- Add lemon or orange zest for a citrus note.
- Dip half the cookie in melted dark chocolate for flair.
- Sprinkle coarse sugar on top before baking for sparkle.
- Add a hint of almond extract for depth.
- Serve with Cinnamon Sugar Blondies for a beautiful dessert pairing.
Step-by-Step Instructions For French Butter Cookies
These cookies are beautifully simple to make. A quick mix, a short bake, and you’ll have golden perfection.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream the butter and sugar. In a bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until smooth and fluffy—about 2 minutes. (This step creates that light texture.)
- Add vanilla and salt. Mix just until combined.
- Add flour. Gradually stir in the flour until a soft dough forms.
- Shape the cookies. Roll dough into 1-inch balls or use a cookie press for decorative shapes. Place them 2 inches apart on the prepared sheet.
- Flatten slightly. Gently press each cookie with the bottom of a glass or fork for a classic look.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
- Cool completely on a wire rack before serving.
Quick Reminders:
- Don’t overmix once you add flour—keep the texture tender.
- Watch the bake time closely; these cookies brown quickly.
- For perfect shape, chill dough for 10 minutes before baking.
- Use real butter—it makes all the difference.
Expert Tips for Success
Mastering French Butter Cookies is all about precision and simplicity.
- Always sift powdered sugar for smooth dough.
- Measure flour accurately using the spoon-and-level method.
- Use room-temperature butter—it creams better.
- Bake on light-colored pans for even browning.
- Cool completely before storing to keep crispness.
- For authentic flavor, use European-style butter with higher fat content.
These details elevate your cookies from good to unforgettable.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are elegant enough for special occasions but simple enough for everyday enjoyment.
- Serve with coffee, espresso, or tea.
- Stack in a tin with Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies for a sophisticated cookie gift.
- Pair with fruit, sorbet, or ice cream for dessert.
- Use as a base for mini tarts or layered desserts.
- Dip edges in chocolate and sprinkle with sea salt.
Their buttery flavor and crisp texture make them perfect companions for sweet or savory moments.
Storing and Reheating
These cookies store beautifully, staying crisp and flavorful for days.
How to Store It
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days.
- Layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Freeze unbaked dough for up to 2 months.
- Thaw dough before shaping and baking.
- Avoid refrigeration—it softens the texture.
How to Refresh It
- To restore crispness, warm baked cookies in a 300°F oven for 3–4 minutes.
- Cool completely before serving again.
Even after a few days, these cookies stay buttery, delicate, and full of flavor.
Nutrition (Per Cookie)
Calories: 90 | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Unsaturated Fat: 2g | Carbohydrates: 9g | Sugar: 4g | Protein: 1g | Sodium: 20mg | Cholesterol: 15mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but reduce or skip the added pinch of salt.
Why use powdered sugar instead of granulated?
Powdered sugar makes the texture softer and more delicate.
Do I need to chill the dough?
Not required, but 10–15 minutes in the fridge makes shaping easier.
Final Thoughts
French Butter Cookies are the definition of elegant simplicity. Buttery, crisp, and subtly sweet, they prove that classic recipes never go out of style. One bite, and you’ll understand why they’ve been loved for generations.
- Use quality butter for the best flavor.
- Watch the bake time—lightly golden is perfect.
- Enjoy with coffee or a quiet afternoon moment.
From my kitchen to yours, these cookies bring a taste of France to any day—simple, sweet, and timeless.
French Butter Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, beat softened butter and sifted powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
- Add vanilla and salt; mix just until combined.
- Gradually stir in all-purpose flour until a soft dough forms.
- Roll dough into 1‑inch balls (or use a cookie press), place about 2 inches apart on the prepared sheet, and flatten slightly with the bottom of a glass or fork.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Cool completely on a wire rack before serving.
Nutrition
Notes
- For a twist, add a bit of citrus zest (lemon or orange), dip half of each cookie in melted dark chocolate, or sprinkle coarse sugar on top before baking. Use high‑quality butter for the best flavor.
- Dough can be chilled for 10–15 minutes for easier shaping, though it’s not required.
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