Homemade French Butter Cookies

Discover the irresistible allure of homemade French butter cookies, or Sablés, known for their rich flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. This simple yet elegant recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels, using high-quality butter for that decadent taste. Enjoy these cookies with tea, as gifts, or at gatherings, creating cherished moments with loved ones. Dive into baking today and savor the delightful experience! #FrenchCookies #Baking #HomemadeTreats #Sablés #CookieRecipe #DessertLovers

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Ingredients

2 sticks (1 cup) unsalted butter, softened

1 cup powdered sugar

1 large egg yolk

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup granulated sugar (for sprinkling)

Optional: Zest of 1 lemon or orange (for added flavor)

Instructions

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

Cream the Butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

Add Egg Yolks and Vanilla: Mix in the egg yolk and vanilla extract, blending until thoroughly combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt (and citrus zest if using). Gradually add this to the butter mixture, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Chill the Dough: Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This will make it easier to handle and shape.

Shape the Cookies: Once chilled, use a spoon or a cookie scoop to portion out small balls of dough (about 1 tablespoon each). Roll them between your palms to form neat balls and then gently flatten them to about 1/4 inch thick.

Coat in Sugar: Place the flattened cookies onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Sprinkle a little granulated sugar on top of each cookie for a lovely crunch.

Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may still look pale, which is fine.

Cool: Remove from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serve and Enjoy: These deliciously buttery cookies can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. They are perfect with tea or coffee and make great gifts!

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 24 cookies