French Butter Cookies Recipe

Introduction

French Butter Cookies are delicate, buttery treats that melt in your mouth with every bite. Simple to make yet impressively elegant, they are perfect for afternoon tea or sharing with friends.

Ingredients

• ½ cup butter, softened to room temperature
• ½ cup powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cream the butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
2. Step 2: Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, mixing until fully incorporated.
3. Step 3: Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
4. Step 4: Shape the dough into a log, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes.
5. Step 5: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Step 6: Slice the chilled dough into ¼-inch rounds. Place them on the baking sheet spaced about 1 inch apart.
7. Step 7: Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, until the edges just start to turn golden.
8. Step 8: Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before serving or storing.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of finely grated lemon zest to the dough before chilling.
• Use a cookie press with a star or floral tip to create decorative shapes instead of slicing the dough log.
• Substitute half the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a nuttier texture.

Storage

Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want them crispier after storage, warm them briefly in a 300°F (150°C) oven for a few minutes.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use unsalted butter for this recipe?

Yes, unsalted butter is preferred so you can control the salt level. Just ensure you add the pinch of salt as instructed.

Can I freeze the dough or baked cookies?

You can freeze the shaped dough log before slicing for up to one month; thaw it in the refrigerator before baking. Baked cookies also freeze well for about two months if stored in an airtight container.

French Butter Cookies Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 104 reviews

Delight in the classic simplicity of French Butter Cookies, buttery and tender with a delicate vanilla flavor. These melt-in-your-mouth treats are easy to make and perfect for teatime or as a sweet gift.

• Author: Isla
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 42 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 20 cookies 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: French
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Ingredients

• ½ cup butter, softened to room temperature
• ½ cup powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sifted powdered sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer until the mixture is light, fluffy, and well combined, approximately 2 to 3 minutes.
2. Add Flavorings: Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to the creamed butter mixture, stirring until fully incorporated and evenly distributed.
3. Incorporate Flour: Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the mixture, stirring gently until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix to maintain the delicate texture of the cookies.
4. Chill the Dough: Form the dough into a log shape, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This firms up the dough, making it easier to slice and helps the cookies hold their shape during baking.
5. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
6. Slice the Dough: Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator and slice into ¼-inch thick rounds. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart to allow for slight spreading.
7. Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges just begin to turn a light golden color.
8. Cool: Once baked, transfer the cookies to a wire rack and allow them to cool completely before serving or storing. This step ensures the cookies set perfectly and retain their delicate texture.

Notes

• Ensure the butter is properly softened at room temperature for easy creaming.
• Sifting powdered sugar helps prevent lumps and ensures a smooth dough.
• Do not overmix once flour is added to maintain tenderness.
• Chilling the dough is crucial for easy slicing and preventing cookie spread.
• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

Keywords: French butter cookies, butter cookies, classic cookies, vanilla cookies, easy cookie recipe, teatime cookies