Description
Delicate, buttery, and perfectly crisp, French Butter Cookies—also known as Sablés—are a timeless treat from the heart of Brittany, France. With their signature crumbly texture and rich, melt-in-your-mouth flavor, these cookies are incredibly simple yet elegant. Whether served with coffee, gifted in a tin, or enjoyed as an everyday indulgence, they always make a lasting impression.
Want recipes like this delivered straight to your inbox? Subscribe now to get the latest culinary creations you’ll love.
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
-
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
-
¾ cup powdered sugar
-
2 egg yolks
-
1 tsp vanilla extract (or ½ tsp almond extract for variation)
-
2 cups all-purpose flour
-
¼ tsp salt
Optional for Decoration:
-
1 egg yolk + 1 tbsp milk (for egg wash)
-
¼ cup granulated sugar (for sprinkling)
-
Melted dark or white chocolate (for dipping)
Instructions
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
Add egg yolks and vanilla extract, and beat until fully incorporated.
Step 2: Add the Dry Ingredients
Sift in the flour and salt, mixing gently until a soft dough forms.
Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender and crumbly.
Step 3: Shape the Cookies
You have two options:
Slice-and-Bake Method:
Roll the dough into a log about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour.
Slice into ¼-inch thick rounds before baking.
Piped Cookie Method (Traditional Parisian Style):
Transfer dough to a piping bag fitted with a large star tip.
Pipe swirls or rosettes onto a lined baking sheet.
Chill the shaped dough in the fridge for 15 minutes before baking to help retain shape.
Step 4: Optional Egg Wash and Sugar Topping
For a golden finish, brush each cookie with a mixture of egg yolk and milk.
Sprinkle lightly with granulated sugar if desired.
Step 5: Bake the Cookies
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
Do not overbake—the centers should remain pale and tender.
Step 6: Cool & Serve
Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy as-is or dip cooled cookies halfway in melted chocolate and let set.
Notes
Use High-Quality Butter – It’s the star of the recipe, so go for the best you can find.
Chill the Dough – This prevents spreading and enhances flavor.
Weigh Your Ingredients – For the most consistent results, use a kitchen scale.
Don’t Overmix – Mix just until combined for a perfect crumbly texture.
Piping Tip – If using a piping bag, let the dough sit at room temp for a few minutes to soften slightly for easier handling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cuisine: French