French Salted Butter Cookies: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Experience the delightful taste of French Salted Butter Cookies with this ultimate recipe that combines sweet and salty flavors in every bite.
French Salted Butter Cookies, or ‘Sablés,’ are a beloved treat that perfectly balance the richness of butter with a touch of salt. Originating from France, these cookies have become a staple in bakeries around the world. Their crumbly texture and buttery flavor make them irresistible.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich buttery flavor with a hint of sea salt
- Simple ingredients that are easy to find
- Perfect for tea time or as a sweet gift
- Quick to prepare and bake
The Perfect Balance of Sweet and Salty
French Salted Butter Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly balances sweet and salty flavors. The rich, creamy taste of unsalted butter combined with a hint of sea salt creates a unique flavor profile that tantalizes the taste buds. This cookie is not just a dessert; it's an experience that brings joy with every bite. The interplay of sweetness from the sugars and the savory note from the sea salt makes these cookies truly irresistible.
Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee, or simply as a snack, these cookies elevate any moment. Their distinctive flavor is a wonderful reminder of the beauty of French baking, where simplicity meets sophistication. Each cookie embodies the essence of French pastry tradition, making them a perfect addition to any gathering or celebration.
Easy to Make at Home
One of the best aspects of French Salted Butter Cookies is how easy they are to make at home. With just a handful of simple ingredients that are likely already in your pantry, you can whip up a batch in no time. The process requires minimal effort, making it a great choice for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. The straightforward steps ensure that you can focus on enjoying the process of baking rather than getting overwhelmed by complicated techniques.
Additionally, this recipe is incredibly forgiving. Even if you’re not an experienced baker, the ease of combining the ingredients and shaping the dough into logs means that everyone can achieve delightful results. Plus, the cookies can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making it convenient for those busy days when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Versatile for Any Occasion
French Salted Butter Cookies are versatile enough to suit any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family gathering, a festive holiday party, or a thoughtful homemade gift. Their elegant appearance and delicious flavor make them a wonderful choice for tea time with friends or as a sweet accompaniment to a wine tasting night. You can also package them beautifully to give as gifts, sharing a taste of France with loved ones.
Moreover, you can easily customize these cookies to suit your preferences. Consider adding chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits to the dough for an extra twist. Alternatively, you can experiment with different flavored extracts or spices to create a unique version of these classic cookies. This flexibility ensures that they can always be adapted to the season or the tastes of your guests.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 egg yolk
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the vanilla extract and egg yolk until well combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour and sea salt. Gradually add this mixture to the butter mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
Shape the Cookies
Divide the dough in half and roll each half into a log. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the chilled logs into 1/4-inch thick rounds and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of each cookie.
Cool and Serve
Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy your cookies with a cup of tea or coffee!
Storing Your Cookies
To keep your French Salted Butter Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week, but we doubt they’ll last that long! If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. Once baked and cooled, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can be stored for up to three months.
When you're ready to enjoy them, simply take out the desired amount and let them thaw at room temperature. This simple storage method allows you to always have a delicious treat on hand, perfect for unexpected guests or a personal indulgence.
Pairing Suggestions
These delightful cookies pair beautifully with a variety of beverages. For a classic combination, serve them alongside a steaming cup of Earl Grey tea or a rich, dark coffee. The flavors harmonize wonderfully, enhancing the experience of both the cookies and the drink. If you're looking for something a bit more adventurous, try them with a glass of dessert wine or a fruity sparkling cider for a refreshing contrast.
Additionally, these cookies make an excellent addition to a cheese platter. Their buttery richness complements the salty, creamy notes of various cheeses, offering an interesting balance of flavors that guests will love. Experimenting with different pairings can elevate your serving ideas and provide guests with a memorable tasting experience.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but you may want to reduce the amount of additional salt in the recipe.
→ How should I store these cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the rolled dough logs for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before slicing and baking.
→ What can I use instead of egg yolk?
You can substitute with a tablespoon of applesauce or a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water).
French Salted Butter Cookies: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe
Experience the delightful taste of French Salted Butter Cookies with this ultimate recipe that combines sweet and salty flavors in every bite.
Created by: Phoebe Turner
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 24 cookies
What You'll Need
For the Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 egg yolk
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the vanilla extract and egg yolk until well combined.
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour and sea salt. Gradually add this mixture to the butter mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
Divide the dough in half and roll each half into a log. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the chilled logs into 1/4-inch thick rounds and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of each cookie.
Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 16g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 2g