Buttery Bliss: French Butter Cookies Recipe for Sweet Success

Sweet memories of childhood often dance around these delicate French butter cookies that melt effortlessly on your tongue.

crisp edges and tender centers define this classic European treat loved across generations.

Buttery and delicate, these cookies require just a handful of simple ingredients found in most kitchen pantries.

Rich European baking traditions shine through each carefully crafted morsel of these elegant shortbread-style delights.

Generations of bakers have perfected this straightforward yet sublime recipe passed down through kitchens in France.

Subtle vanilla and pure butter create a symphony of flavor that transforms an ordinary moment into something truly special.

Prepare to savor every crumbly, melt-in-your-mouth bite of these irresistible French butter cookies.

Classic Crisp French Cookies What to Love

• Whip Up Quickly: Minimal ingredients and straightforward steps make these French cookies a breeze to prepare for bakers of all skill levels.
• Perfect Party Treat: Elegant, delicate cookies that impress guests with their classic European charm and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Customize with Ease: Versatile recipe allows creative variations like adding citrus zest, chopped nuts, or dipping in chocolate for personalized touch.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Dough can be prepared in advance and stored in freezer, enabling stress-free entertaining and spontaneous baking moments.

French Cookie Ingredient Essentials

• Butter: A rich, creamy ingredient that provides a smooth texture and delicate flavor to the cookies.
• Powdered Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a light, delicate cookie texture.
• Egg Yolk: Contributes richness and helps bind the ingredients together.
• Vanilla: Provides a classic, warm flavor that enhances the overall taste of the cookies.

• All-Purpose Flour: The main structural component that gives the cookies their classic crisp texture.

• Granulated Sugar: Creates a sweet, sparkling exterior and adds a delightful crunch to the cookie's surface.

Steps for Crisp French Cookies

Step 1: Whip Up Creamy Butter Base

Grab your mixer and blend butter with powdered sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.

Add egg yolk and vanilla, stirring until everything is perfectly combined.

Gently sift flour into the mixture and mix until a smooth dough forms.

Step 2: First Cooling Session

Wrap the freshly made dough in plastic wrap and tuck it into the refrigerator.

Let it chill for 20 minutes to firm up and develop its delicate texture.

Step 3: Shape Beautiful Cookie Logs

Divide the chilled dough into two equal portions.

Carefully roll each portion into a neat 4-inch long log, ensuring smooth and even sides.

Step 4: Deep Freeze Preparation

Wrap each cookie log securely in plastic wrap.

Place them in the freezer and let them chill for 45 minutes to help maintain their perfect shape.

Step 5: Final Touch and Baking Magic

Remove logs from freezer and roll them in granulated sugar for a sparkling exterior.

Slice each log into thin 3/8-inch rounds.

Arrange cookies on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 356°F.

Bake for 15-18 minutes until edges turn a beautiful golden brown.

Let cookies cool completely before serving.

Tips for the Best French Cookies

• Ensure butter is at room temperature for smooth, even mixing and better dough consistency.
• Use high-quality vanilla extract to enhance the delicate taste of these classic French cookies.
• Use a sharp knife and steady hand when slicing logs to create uniform, perfectly thin cookies.
• Watch cookies closely during baking to prevent over-browning, removing them when edges turn light golden.
• Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to maintain their crisp texture.

French Cookie Variations for Fun

• Gluten-Free Almond Cookies: Replace wheat flour with almond flour for a nutty, gluten-free version that's perfect for those with wheat sensitivities.
• Chocolate Dipped Sablés: After baking, dip half of each cookie in melted dark chocolate for an elegant, rich variation that adds extra decadence.
• Citrus Zest Shortbread: Incorporate lemon or orange zest into the dough for a bright, refreshing flavor that elevates the classic cookie recipe.
• Spiced Winter Cookies: Mix in ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to create a warm, seasonal variation that's perfect for holiday baking.

Serving Crisp French Cookies

• Elegant Tea Party Pairing: Serve these delicate French cookies alongside a steaming cup of Earl Grey or chamomile tea for a sophisticated afternoon treat.
• Dessert Platter Charm: Create a beautiful dessert presentation by arranging cookies in a circular pattern with fresh berries, mint leaves, and a light dusting of powdered sugar.
• Gifting Delight: Package these crisp cookies in a charming vintage tin or clear cellophane bag tied with a silk ribbon for a homemade gift that feels personal and special.
• Ice Cream Companion: Crumble these cookies over vanilla bean or lavender ice cream for a delightful textural contrast and extra touch of sweetness.

Storage for Crisp French Cookies

• Store completely cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Keep them separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Wrap unbaked cookie logs tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Frozen logs can last up to 3 months. Thaw in refrigerator overnight before slicing and baking.
• Raw cookie dough stays fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days when sealed in plastic wrap. Prevent drying by ensuring tight coverage.
• Allow refrigerated or frozen cookies to sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to restore their delicate, crisp texture.

FAQs

• Are these cookies difficult to make?

No, these French cookies are beginner-friendly. The recipe requires basic baking skills and simple ingredients. Just follow the chilling and rolling steps carefully.

• What gives these cookies their classic texture?

The two-stage chilling process helps create a crisp, delicate texture. Refrigerating the dough prevents spreading and ensures a perfectly shaped cookie.

• Can I use regular sugar instead of powdered sugar?

Powdered sugar is recommended for a smoother, more delicate cookie texture. Regular granulated sugar might create a different consistency and grainier finish.

• How do I know when the cookies are perfectly baked?

Look for golden edges and a light golden color across the cookie surface. They should be crisp but not dark brown, which would make them bitter.

French Butter Cookies Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 15 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• Yield: 24 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Delicate French butter cookies melt hearts with their buttery charm, whisking bakers into a Parisian patisserie. Crisp, golden edges and rich vanilla notes promise sweet moments that connect you to classic French baking traditions.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dry Ingredients:

• 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) granulated sugar (for coating)
• 1/2 cup (60 g) powdered sugar, sifted

Fat and Moisture Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (113 g) butter, room temperature

Flavor and Binding Ingredients:

• 1 egg yolk, room temperature
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) vanilla extract

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Whip softened butter and powdered sugar until fluffy and pale, creating a smooth base for the delicate cookie dough.
2. Gently incorporate egg yolk and vanilla extract, blending until the mixture becomes uniform and glossy.
3. Gradually sift flour into the wet ingredients, carefully folding until a cohesive dough forms without overmixing.
4. Encase the dough in plastic wrap, allowing it to rest and firm up in the refrigerator for 20 minutes.
5. Divide the chilled dough into two equal portions, then carefully roll each section into slender 4-inch logs.
6. Wrap the logs tightly in plastic wrap and transfer to the freezer for 45 minutes to solidify their shape.
7. Remove logs from freezer and roll each one thoroughly in granulated sugar, creating a sparkling exterior.
8. Using a sharp knife, slice the logs into thin 3/8-inch rounds, ensuring uniform thickness for even baking.
9. Arrange cookie slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart to allow for gentle spreading.
10. Bake in a preheated oven at 356°F for 15-18 minutes, watching for edges to turn golden brown and centers to set.
11. Remove from oven and let cookies cool completely on the baking sheet, allowing them to crisp and develop their signature texture.

Notes

• Softening butter at room temperature helps create a smoother, more even dough with less chance of lumps.
• Use high-quality vanilla extract for a richer, more authentic flavor that elevates the entire cookie.
• Chilling the dough twice prevents spreading and helps maintain the delicate, crisp texture that makes these cookies special.
• For gluten-free option, swap regular flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend to accommodate different dietary needs.

• Prep Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: French

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 24
• Calories: 108
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 18 mg
• Fat: 6 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 12 g
• Fiber: 0.3 g
• Protein: 1 g
• Cholesterol: 13 mg