French Butter Cookies Recipe

If you have a soft spot for buttery, tender, melt-in-your-mouth treats that make every tea time or coffee break truly special, then you’re going to absolutely adore these French Butter Cookies. This recipe captures the essence of classic French baking with just a few simple ingredients that come together to create delicate cookies boasting a perfect balance of rich butter flavor and a lightly crisp exterior. These French Butter Cookies are as elegant as they are easy to make, promising a delightful bite every time you reach for one.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is the first step toward baking perfect French Butter Cookies, and luckily, this recipe calls for simple, everyday pantry staples. Each ingredient plays its own role in crafting that luxurious, tender texture and irresistible buttery taste.

• Butter, ½ cup (softened to room temperature): The star player that provides richness, moistness, and that signature melt-in-the-mouth softness.
• Powdered sugar, ½ cup (sifted before measuring): Gives a subtle sweetness and helps keep the cookies tender.
• Egg yolk, 1 (at room temperature): Adds richness and binds the dough together flawlessly.
• Vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon: Enhances the flavor with a gentle floral note that brightens the butter’s aroma.
• All-purpose or cake flour, 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons (sifted): Provides structure, ensuring the cookies maintain their shape while remaining tender.
• Granulated sugar, ¼ cup (for coating): Creates a sweet crunch on the outside for a delightful texture contrast.

How to Make French Butter Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Start by mixing your softened butter and sifted powdered sugar with a spatula until the mixture becomes pale and light in texture. This step is key to introducing air into the dough, helping your cookies develop a wonderfully tender crumb.

Step 2: Add the Egg Yolk and Vanilla Extract

Next, incorporate the egg yolk and vanilla extract into the creamed butter and sugar. Mixing until everything is just combined ensures the dough stays silky and doesn’t become overworked, which helps keep the cookies delicate.

Step 3: Sift in the Flour and Form the Dough

Gently sift your flour into the wet mixture and fold it in to create a soft dough. This delicate handling prevents gluten from developing too much so your cookies remain tender and crumbly.

Step 4: Refrigerate the Dough

Wrap your dough tightly in plastic wrap and let it chill in the fridge for about 20 minutes. This resting period firms up the dough, making it easier to shape and helping the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 5: Divide and Shape Into Logs

Once chilled, divide the dough into two equal portions. Roll each piece into a log approximately 4 inches long and 1 inch in diameter. This shape is perfect for slicing into those classic, round butter cookies.

Step 6: Freeze the Logs

Wrap each dough log separately in plastic wrap and freeze for 45 minutes. This step is crucial because it firms up the dough again, allowing you to slice the cookies thinly without them crumbling or losing shape.

Step 7: Prepare for Baking

Preheat your oven to 356°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup effortless.

Step 8: Coat, Slice, and Arrange

Remove the frozen logs from their wrapping and roll them generously in granulated sugar spread out on a plate. This adds a lovely sugary crunch. Then slice the logs into 3/8 inch thick rounds and lay them evenly spaced on your baking sheet.

Step 9: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake the cookies for 15 to 18 minutes, until their edges turn a gentle golden brown. They will be soft when you first take them out but don’t worry—that softness is just temporary.

Step 10: Cool and Store

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, during which time they will firm up and develop their crisp texture. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. This keeps your French Butter Cookies fresh and delightful for up to five days.

How to Serve French Butter Cookies

Garnishes

For a charming touch, dust these cookies lightly with powdered sugar right before serving. You can also pair them with a few edible flower petals or a sprinkle of finely chopped toasted almonds for a little crunch and added visual appeal.

Side Dishes

French Butter Cookies are a perfect companion to a hot cup of tea—think Earl Grey or a fragrant jasmine. They also shine alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream, making them an elegant dessert treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack these cookies elegantly on a tiered dessert tray to impress guests at your next gathering. Alternatively, present them in a beautiful jar tied with a ribbon as a thoughtful homemade gift—because who can resist a jar filled with buttery, crisp love?

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover French Butter Cookies, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay crisp and delicious for up to five days, perfect for nibbling throughout the week.

Freezing

To freeze, store the baked cookies in a sealed freezer bag or container. Freeze for up to one month. When ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature inside the container to preserve their texture and flavor.

Reheating

If you like your cookies warm, pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. This refreshes their crispness and releases that heavenly butter aroma anew—like they’ve just come out of the oven.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter for French Butter Cookies?

It’s best to use unsalted butter so you have complete control over the saltiness of your cookies. If you only have salted butter, reduce or omit any added salt in the recipe to avoid overly salty cookies.

Why do I need to chill and freeze the dough?

Chilling and freezing help the dough firm up, which is essential for slicing thin, even cookies that hold their shape while baking. It also prevents spreading and improves texture.

Can I substitute the flour with a gluten-free alternative?

Yes, but results may vary. Use a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking to maintain the cookie’s tender yet structured texture. You might need to adjust the amount slightly for the best results.

How do I make sure the cookies don’t spread too much?

Keeping the dough well-chilled, slicing evenly thick pieces, and baking at the correct temperature are all important. Avoid overcreaming the butter and sugar, which can cause extra spread.

Are these cookies suitable for kids?

Absolutely! French Butter Cookies are a gentle, mildly sweet treat that children love. Just make sure egg yolks are fully incorporated and bake thoroughly for safe consumption.

Final Thoughts

It’s amazing how such a handful of simple ingredients can come together to create the exquisite delight that is French Butter Cookies. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe offers a rewarding, delicious experience that will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try—you’ll be sharing these buttery wonders with friends and family in no time, enjoying the smiles that follow every crisp bite.

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