French Butter Cookies, also known as Sablés, are a classic treat known for their rich, buttery flavor and delicate texture. These cookies are a staple in French baking, loved for their simplicity and elegance. The name Sablé comes from the French word for “sand,” reflecting the cookies’ crumbly, sandy texture. They’re perfect with tea or coffee, and their straightforward ingredients and method make them accessible to bakers of all skill levels.
The basic recipe involves just a few ingredients: butter, sugar, flour, and often a touch of vanilla or other flavorings. The dough is usually chilled before baking to help the cookies maintain their shape and to achieve that perfect melt-in-your-mouth consistency. You can also enhance these cookies with various add-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
French Butter Cookies (Sablés)
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Optional: ½ cup finely chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or a dusting of powdered sugar
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. You can use a hand mixer or stand mixer for this step.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg yolk and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of the cookies.
- Chill the Dough: Divide the dough into two portions and shape each portion into a log or disk. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm. This step helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Shape and Cut Cookies: Once the dough is chilled, slice it into ¼-inch thick rounds if using the log method, or roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut out shapes with cookie cutters. If desired, sprinkle the tops with a little sugar or press a few chocolate chips or chopped nuts into the centers.
- Bake: Arrange the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers should remain pale.
- Cool and Enjoy: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar if desired before serving.
These French Butter Cookies are delightfully simple yet incredibly satisfying. Their rich buttery flavor and tender crumb make them a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether enjoyed plain or with a sprinkle of sugar or chocolate, they embody the elegance and charm of classic French baking.
