Description
Delicate, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth tender, French Butter Cookies—also known as Sablés—are a timeless treat from the heart of France. With just a few simple ingredients, these cookies deliver rich flavor and a crumbly texture that pairs beautifully with tea, coffee, or a glass of milk. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a gathering, or just because, these elegant cookies never go out of style.
Want recipes like this delivered straight to your inbox? Subscribe now to get the latest culinary creations you’ll love.
Ingredients
-
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
-
¾ cup powdered sugar
-
2 large egg yolks
-
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
-
2 cups all-purpose flour
-
¼ tsp salt
-
Extra granulated sugar, for sprinkling (optional)
-
1 egg yolk + 1 tsp milk (for egg wash, optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
-
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy and smooth.
-
Sift in the powdered sugar and mix until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
-
Add the egg yolks and vanilla extract, then beat until combined.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
-
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
-
Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture.
-
Mix until just combined. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
-
Divide the dough into two equal parts and shape into disks.
-
Wrap each disk in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Step 3: Roll Out and Cut the Cookies
-
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
-
Lightly flour your surface and roll out one disk of dough to about ¼-inch thickness.
-
Use cookie cutters to cut into rounds or fluted shapes.
-
Place cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
Step 4: Optional Egg Wash and Sugar Topping
-
For a golden finish, whisk 1 egg yolk with 1 tsp milk.
-
Lightly brush the tops of the cookies with the egg wash.
-
Sprinkle with a pinch of granulated sugar for sparkle and crunch, if desired.
Step 5: Bake and Cool
-
Bake cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
-
Do not overbake—these cookies are meant to stay light in color.
-
Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Use Good-Quality Butter – The flavor really shines, so use a high-quality unsalted butter.
Chill the Dough – This helps the cookies keep their shape and prevents spreading.
Avoid Overmixing – Mix just until the dough comes together for the most tender texture.
Don’t Overbake – Keep an eye on the color; you want pale cookies with golden edges.
Store Properly – Keep in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Cuisine: French