French Butter Cookies (Sablés)

Why Make This Recipe

Let’s be real—who can resist a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookie? French Butter Cookies, or Sablés as the fancy folks call them, bring that perfect balance of crispiness and tenderness. They’re not just a treat; they’re a way to impress your friends at tea time! 🍵 Whether you’re a novice or a baking pro, these cookies can make you look like a culinary genius without breaking a sweat.

Plus, they’re super customizable. Want to add a dash of almond extract? Go for it! Feeling wild with sprinkles? Why not! The world is your cookie dough!

How to Make French Butter Cookies (Sablés)

Making Sablés is as easy as pie—well, easier, actually. You won’t need a baking degree to whip these up!

Here’s what you need to do:

1. Cream the butter and powdered sugar until it’s light and fluffy—think whipped clouds.
2. Add egg yolks and vanilla to sweeten the deal.
3. Mix in flour and salt—just until it comes together; no need to overdo it!
4. Remember to chill that dough. It’ll be worth the wait when you taste the finished product.
5. Shape and sprinkle. Create lovely little balls or chic slices, and make them sparkle with sugar.
6. Finally, bake until golden and aromatic. Your kitchen will smell like heaven, trust me!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delightful cookies:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional, but highly recommended for that extra oomph)
• Granulated sugar for sprinkling

Directions

Now that you’ve got your ingredients, let’s dive into the steps:

1. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter with powdered sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Beat in the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and the almond extract if you’re feeling fancy.
3. Gradually mix in the flour and salt until just combined to form a soft dough.
4. Chill the dough for about 1 hour until firm—patience is a virtue!
5. Shape the dough into balls or roll into a log, slice into 1/4-inch rounds. Place these cute little guys on a parchment-lined baking sheet, flatten slightly, and sprinkle with granulated sugar.
6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden. Yum!
8. Remove from the oven and cool on a wire rack before serving. Try not to eat them all at once!

How to Serve French Butter Cookies (Sablés)

There’s no wrong way to serve Sablés. They’re great on their own, paired with a cup of tea or coffee, or even as a delightful addition to a dessert platter. Feeling extra? Serve them with a dollop of whipped cream or a side of jam for dipping. Just imagine, a cookie that gets better with every bite! 😋

How to Store French Butter Cookies (Sablés)

To keep your cookies fresh—and your willpower intact—store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week (but let’s be honest, they probably won’t make it that long). For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll last for up to 3 months. Just thaw and enjoy!

Tips to Make French Butter Cookies (Sablés)

• Softened butter is key! Don’t rush this; it should be creamy to mix well.
• Chill the dough for a firmer cookie. Chilling is not just for drinks!
• For extra flavor, try adding citrus zest or spices like cinnamon.
• Keep an eye on the baking time; cookies can go from golden to burnt in a flash!

Variation

Feeling adventurous? Try adding chocolate chips or dried fruits for a special twist. You could even dip half of the cooled cookies in chocolate for a decadent treat. The possibilities are basically endless! 🎉

FAQs

Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! Chill the dough, wrap it well, and it can sit in the fridge for up to a week. Or freeze it for up to three months. Bake it fresh when cravings hit!

Q: What if my dough is too crumbly?
If it feels too dry, add a teaspoon of milk or water and mix again. The goal is a soft, cohesive dough. Don’t lose hope!

Q: Are these cookies gluten-free?
Not unless you switch to a gluten-free flour blend. Just check the flour packaging for recommended substitutes.

Now, grab your apron and get baking! Enjoy making these delicious French Butter Cookies that are sure to impress. 🎉

French Butter Cookies (Sablés)

Delightful buttery cookies that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, perfect for tea time or as a treat anytime.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 24 cookies

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: French

Calories: 95

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Make sure butter is at room temperature.
• 3/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt Use kosher or sea salt for best flavor.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract Optional, for added flavor.
• to taste Granulated sugar for sprinkling

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter with powdered sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Beat in the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and almond extract if you're feeling fancy.
3. Gradually mix in the flour and salt until just combined to form a soft dough.
4. Chill the dough for about 1 hour until firm.
5. Shape the dough into balls or roll into a log, slice into 1/4-inch rounds.
6. Place these on a parchment-lined baking sheet, flatten slightly, and sprinkle with granulated sugar.

Baking

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden.
3. Remove from the oven and cool on a wire rack before serving.

Notes

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.