French Butter Cookies (Sablés Breton)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

French Butter Cookies, or Sablés Breton, are a classic treat from the Brittany region of France, known for their rich, buttery flavor and crumbly, tender texture. These cookies are simple yet elegant, perfect with a cup of tea or coffee. Made with just a few high-quality ingredients, they offer a melt-in-your-mouth experience that highlights the beauty of traditional French baking.

ingredients

flour
unsalted butter
confectioners’ sugar
egg yolks
vanilla extract
baking powder
salt

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and confectioners’ sugar until smooth and fluffy.

Add the egg yolks and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing just until a soft dough forms.

Shape the dough into a log or flatten it into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for 30 minutes.

Roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4 inch thickness and cut into round or fluted shapes.

Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet and lightly brush the tops with an extra egg yolk for a golden finish.

Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

Cool on a wire rack before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 24 cookies.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 12-15 minutes
Total time: 1 hour

Variations

Add a touch of lemon or orange zest for a citrus note.
Sprinkle coarse sugar on top for a crunchy finish.
Dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate for an elegant twist.
Use a cookie stamp or embossing tool for decorative patterns.

storage/reheating

Store French Butter Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
For longer storage, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
To refresh, warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 3-5 minutes.

FAQs

What makes Sablés Breton unique?

The high butter content and crumbly texture distinguish these cookies from others.

Can I use salted butter?

Unsalted butter is preferred to control the salt level, but if using salted, reduce added salt.

Do I have to chill the dough?

Yes, chilling helps the cookies hold their shape and enhances the texture.

Can I use a stand mixer?

Yes, a stand mixer with the paddle attachment works well for creaming the butter and sugar.

Are these cookies very sweet?

They have a balanced sweetness that lets the buttery flavor shine.

Can I add nuts?

Yes, finely chopped almonds or hazelnuts can be added for texture and flavor.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely, this recipe scales up easily for larger batches.

What’s the best flour to use?

All-purpose flour works best for the desired texture.

Can I use granulated sugar instead?

Powdered sugar gives a finer crumb, but granulated can be used for a slightly coarser texture.

Do these cookies spread?

They spread very little, making them ideal for shaped or stamped cookies.

Conclusion

French Butter Cookies (Sablés Breton) are a refined, buttery delight that embodies the elegance of French baking. Whether enjoyed plain, dressed up with zest or chocolate, or gifted in a beautiful tin, these cookies are a timeless favorite that never goes out of style.

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