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French Butter Cookies

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  • Author: clara
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 24 cookies 1x
  • Category: Dessert, Snack
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: French

Description

These French butter cookies, also known as Sablés Breton, are a simple yet luxurious treat. With a tender texture and rich buttery flavor, they’re perfect for tea time, gifting, or a sweet indulgence anytime.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Optional for Brushing:

  • 1 egg yolk mixed with 1 tbsp water

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough:

    • In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
    • Mix in the egg yolk and vanilla extract until well combined.
    • Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until the dough comes together.
  2. Chill the Dough:

    • Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight).
  3. Preheat the Oven:

    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  4. Shape the Cookies:

    • Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness.
    • Cut out cookies using a round cookie cutter or your desired shape.
    • Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between them.
  5. Optional Egg Wash:

    • For a golden finish, brush the tops of the cookies with the egg yolk and water mixture.
  6. Bake:

    • Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
    • Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • For a traditional touch, press a fork lightly into the tops of the cookies to create a decorative pattern before baking.
  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
  • These cookies freeze well and can be stored for up to 2 months.