French Butter Cookies Sablés are delightful, melt-in-your-mouth treats that are simple to prepare yet sophisticated in flavor. With a rich buttery taste and a delicate crumb, these cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether enjoyed with tea or presented as a gift.

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2/3 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg yolk
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 large egg (for egg wash)
1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)

Directions

Prepare the Dough:
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing on low speed until a dough forms.
Shape the Dough:
Divide the dough into two portions. Roll each portion into a log about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap the logs tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight to firm up.
Preheat and Prepare the Baking Sheet:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Slice and Prepare the Cookies:
Remove the dough from the refrigerator and slice each log into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Place the rounds on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
Egg Wash:
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water. Brush the tops of the cookies with the egg wash to give them a glossy finish.
Bake:
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: Makes about 24 cookies

Variations

Flavor Additions: Enhance the dough with a touch of lemon zest, almond extract, or a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor.
Decorative Touch: After baking, consider dipping half of each cookie in melted chocolate or sprinkling with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: If desired, reheat cookies in the oven at a low temperature (around 300°F) for a few minutes to restore freshness.

10 FAQs

Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but you may want to reduce the added salt in the recipe.
What can I use instead of vanilla extract?
Almond extract is a great substitute if you prefer a different flavor.
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, you can freeze the rolled logs of dough. Just slice and bake directly from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the baking time.
How thick should I slice the cookies?
Slicing them about 1/4 inch thick will ensure a nice texture and even baking.
Can I add chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Fold in some chocolate chips to the dough for a delicious variation.
What should I do if the dough is too soft?
If the dough feels too soft to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for an additional 15-30 minutes.
Are these cookies suitable for decorating?
Yes, you can decorate these cookies with icing or sprinkles for special occasions.
How do I know when they are done?
The edges should be golden brown, but the centers may still look slightly pale.
What is the best way to cool the cookies?
Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing air to circulate around them.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, but the texture may be denser; consider using a blend of whole wheat and all-purpose flour for the best results.

Conclusion

French Butter Cookies Sablés are a delightful addition to any dessert table. With their buttery flavor and simple preparation, they are sure to impress friends and family alike. Whether enjoyed plain or with a touch of decoration, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. Enjoy baking and sharing this classic treat!