French butter cookies are a true testament to the beauty of simplicity in baking. With just a few high-quality ingredients, you can create a cookie that embodies rich flavor and a delicate texture. The buttery goodness combined with the subtle sweetness makes these cookies an irresistible treat. Whether served alongside a cup of tea or as a delightful snack, they evoke the essence of French patisserie right in your home. The flexibility of this recipe allows for endless variations, inviting you to experiment with flavors and textures, making each batch uniquely yours. Savoring these cookies is not just about enjoying a treat; it’s about indulging in a moment of bliss that celebrates the art of baking.
Ingredients
- 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (60 g) powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (227 g) unsalted butter, softened at room temperature
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional: Zest of 1 lemon or orange, chocolate chips, or nuts for flavor variations
- Extra granulated sugar for rolling (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with both the granulated and powdered sugars using an electric mixer on medium speed. Cream until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and salt to the mixture, and beat until well combined. If you’re adding any zest, chocolate chips, or nuts, mix them in at this stage.
- Incorporate the Flour:
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the butter mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough. The dough will be soft and slightly sticky.
- Chill the Dough:
- Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape each portion into a log about 1-2 inches in diameter. Wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. Chilling the dough will help the cookies hold their shape when baked.
- Preheat the Oven:
- When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Slice and Shape the Cookies:
- Remove one log of dough from the refrigerator and unwrap it. Use a sharp knife to slice the log into 1/4-inch thick rounds. If you want to roll the cookies in sugar, you can do so now; simply roll each slice in granulated sugar before placing it on the baking sheet.
- Arrange the cookie slices on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie to allow for spreading.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may appear soft, but they will firm up as they cool.
- Cool:
- Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Store:
- Once cooled, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
