French Salted Butter Cookies
French Salted Butter Cookies are a delectable treat that strikes a perfect balance between sweet and salty. Each bite melts in your mouth, delivering rich butter flavor complimented by a hint of sea salt. If you’ve ever craved a cookie that feels fancy yet is effortless to make, this recipe is for you! My journey with these cookies began on a rainy afternoon, where the smell of baking filled my home and lifted my spirits. Now, I make these almost weekly for my family, friends, and random acts of kindness—because who doesn’t appreciate a delicious homemade cookie?
Why you’ll love this dish
These French Salted Butter Cookies are not just delicious; they are incredibly easy to whip up. If you’re looking for a quick, budget-friendly treat that can impress guests just as easily as it can satisfy your late-night cravings, you’re in the right place. Perfect for all occasions—whether it’s a cozy family gathering, a festive holiday party, or even a casual weekday treat—these cookies will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
"I made these cookies last night and they were a hit! The flaky sea salt on top adds a perfect crunch. Definitely going into my regular baking rotation!" — Sarah W.
The cooking process explained
Creating these delightful cookies is as simple as mixing a few ingredients and baking them to perfection. The buttery goodness combined with that sprinkle of sea salt makes for an extraordinary treat that everyone will love. As you prepare, just keep in mind: it’s all about achieving that light and fluffy texture, which lays the foundation for a cookie that’s both tender and delicious.
Gather these items:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Flaky sea salt for sprinkling
Feel free to use brown sugar substitutes or even coconut sugar to add a unique flavor.
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Stir in the vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour and salt to your butter mix, stirring until just incorporated. Avoid overmixing for the best texture.
- Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Gently flatten each ball slightly and sprinkle a bit of flaky sea salt on top for that perfect salty bite.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, watching for the edges to turn light golden.
- Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack for complete cooling.
Best ways to enjoy it
Serving these French Salted Butter Cookies can be just as delightful as making them. For the ideal presentation, arrange the cookies on a beautiful platter and pair them with a cup of afternoon tea or coffee. Want to elevate the experience? Try serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a fruit compote for a taste sensation that’s hard to resist.
Keeping leftovers fresh
These cookies are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored to retain their deliciousness. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to store them for longer, consider freezing the baked cookies. Just let them cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to three months this way. Remember: for safe food handling, make sure they are fully cooled before freezing!
Helpful cooking tips
- Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming with the sugars. This step is crucial for achieving that airy texture.
- Don’t skip the flaky sea salt! It adds a contrasting crunch that makes these cookies sing.
- If your dough feels too stick, a light dusting of flour on your hands can help you roll the balls without a mess.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? You can customize these salted butter cookies in many delicious ways. Add a handful of chopped nuts for extra crunch, or incorporate chocolate chips for a sweet surprise. A teaspoon of espresso powder can deepen the flavor—perfect for coffee lovers! You could also try infusing your dough with citrus zest for a refreshing twist.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to prepare and bake these cookies?
The entire process, from prep to baking, takes about 30-40 minutes.
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
You can, but be cautious about the additional salt in the recipe! If using salted butter, you might want to reduce or skip the added salt.
Are these cookies suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! Once completely cooled, they freeze beautifully, making them perfect for meal prep or unexpected guests.
Now that you’re armed with this delightful recipe and all the tips you need to make it shine, why not give it a try? Your kitchen is about to smell heavenly!
French Salted Butter Cookies
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Ensure butter is at room temperature for easy creaming.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar You can use brown sugar substitutes or coconut sugar for a unique flavor.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt Adjust if using salted butter.
- to taste Flaky sea salt for sprinkling Don't skip the flaky sea salt for the perfect crunch.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Stir in the vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour and salt to your butter mix, stirring until just incorporated. Avoid overmixing for the best texture.
- Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Gently flatten each ball slightly and sprinkle a bit of flaky sea salt on top for that perfect salty bite.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, watching for the edges to turn light golden.
- Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack for complete cooling.
