French Salted Butter Cookies
French Salted Butter Cookies Recipe
French Salted Butter Cookies, known as "Sablés au Beurre Salé" in French, are the perfect blend of sweetness and a subtle salty touch. These delightful cookies are buttery, crisp, and incredibly flavorful. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a gourmet treat that embodies the essence of French baking. Expect a crunchy exterior with a melt-in-your-mouth center, making these cookies an irresistible snack for any occasion.
Why Make This Recipe
These cookies are not only easy to prepare but are also versatile and delicious. The balance of sweet and salty makes them an excellent treat for any time of the day. Whether you’re looking for a delightful addition to your afternoon tea or a sweet gift for friends, French Salted Butter Cookies are sure to impress. Their simple ingredients are likely already in your pantry, and you can whip them up in no time.
How to Make French Salted Butter Cookies
Making French Salted Butter Cookies is straightforward and rewarding. Just follow these steps to create your batch of delicious cookies:
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- Flaky sea salt for sprinkling
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the vanilla extract and salt until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Scoop small balls of the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each cookie.
- Press each ball down slightly and sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top for that distinct salty finish.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve French Salted Butter Cookies
These cookies can be served in various ways. Enjoy them on their own with a cup of tea or coffee, or pair them with some fresh fruit for a light dessert. You can also arrange them on a decorative plate for a beautiful presentation at parties or gatherings.
How to Store French Salted Butter Cookies
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week, but we doubt they’ll stick around that long! If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the dough to bake them fresh later or freeze the baked cookies for up to three months.
Tips to Make French Salted Butter Cookies
- Make sure your butter is softened but not melted, as this will affect the cookie texture.
- For a richer flavor, consider browning the butter before use.
- Keep the dough cool, especially during warmer months, to prevent spreading.
Variations
- Chocolate Chip Twist: Fold in some chocolate chips for a sweet, decadent version.
- Nuts: Add crushed nuts like almonds or pecans for added texture.
- Herbal Infusion: Infuse the butter with herbs like rosemary for a unique flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
Yes, you can, but be sure to reduce the amount of added salt in the recipe to prevent the cookies from being too salty.
2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to three days before baking or freeze it for future use.
3. Why do my cookies spread too much?
If your cookies spread too much, it usually means the dough was too warm or the butter was too soft. Ensure your dough is cold before baking.
Try this easy and delicious recipe for French Salted Butter Cookies and enjoy the perfect treat that balances sweetness with a hint of saltiness. Happy baking!
French Salted Butter Cookies
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Make sure butter is softened but not melted.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt If using salted butter, reduce added salt.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour Add gradually to avoid overmixing.
- Flaky sea salt for sprinkling For the salty finish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the vanilla extract and salt until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Baking
- Scoop small balls of the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each cookie.
- Press each ball down slightly and sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
